Chinese man accused of domestic violence refuses divorce and flees courtroom with wife on his back

A dramatic scene occurred in a Chinese courtroom when a man named Li forcibly carried out his wife Chen to avoid a divorce. According to the South China Morning PostChen had filed for divorce, citing domestic violence and Li's aggressiveness while drunk. The couple, who have been married for 20 years and have two sons and a daughter, live in Sichuan Province. Despite Chen's claims, the court initially rejected the divorce, suggesting that a reconciliation was possible due to their “deep emotional bond” and Li's reticence.

However, Chen appealed, leading to a second trial where Li's feelings got the better of him. He picked Chen up from the ground and fled the courtroom with her on his back, leaving his wife screaming. Bailiffs immediately intervened and reprimanded Li. Later, on September 12, Li apologized in writing, acknowledged his excesses and vowed not to repeat them.

“In my emotional turmoil, I mistakenly thought I was divorcing the plaintiff, so I carried her out of the courtroom, ignoring the orders of the judges and court officials who tried to stop my extreme actions.” Now I realize the severity my mistake and its negative effects. “I guarantee I will never repeat this mistake again in the future,” he wrote.

Surprisingly, the couple decided not to pursue the divorce. Despite Chen's initial allegations of domestic violence and her pleas to end their 20-year marriage, she decided to give Li another chance.

The court's decision sparked widespread concern and dissatisfaction online, with many people questioning the court's understanding of domestic violence and the legal system's handling of such cases. This is not an isolated case as domestic violence remains a pervasive problem in China. According to the All-China Women's Federation, 30 percent of married women say they have experienced domestic violence, and 60 percent of female suicides are attributed to this very problem.

One user said: “If he can wear them out of the courtroom in public, what could he do in private?”

Another commented: “What does it mean that the relationship didn't fail? Does it only count if someone was beaten to death?”

A third added: “Oh my god! “How could you not agree to a divorce in this situation?”