Liu Xiang, 22 other sportspersons and four coaches in Shanghai will enjoy lifelong medical insurance for free. But since the welfare provided to them will come from public funds, this is unfair to taxpayers, says an article in China Youth News. Excerpts:

Some leading international athletes have signed an agreement with a Shanghai public hospital and got a "red notebook" as certificates in return that grants them medical insurance for life. Moreover, the hospital will also give them immediate access to doctors whenever they want.

But who will ultimately pay for the free insurance to the athletes and coaches? The local sports foundation and some government sectors, such as the bureau of finance, have reportedly agreed to the deal and to bear the expenses. This means, common taxpayers will eventually foot the bills.

Isn't it necessary to seek taxpayers' opinion before deciding on such a deal? Many have questioned the logic of providing free medical insurance for people who are rich enough to pay for it. Since medical insurance is closely related to the welfare of common people, the local government should help special groups, such as the poor or physically challenged, instead of rich and famous personalities.

(China Daily 03/22/2013 page9)