Is the Chinese treatment of Falun Gong a human rights issue?

[marions ghost]

To this point I have always understood Falon Gong (or Dafa) to be a benign Chinese mind/body practice with roots in the ancient art of Chi Gung. But after the protestor at the White House yesterday, it seems that the media equates it with dangerous cults like Moonies or Heavens Gate. I am confused about why they would do that.

On the website Falun Gong seems harmless enough and they don't appear to be worshipping anything or anyone. Does anyone know how this organization operates? Do they suck people in and then have them living the life of a devotee to a Bagwan Shri Ragneesh or something? Is it tied to any negative conservative ideas? I mean how is this different from Tai Chi, Yoga (which I have studied extensively) or other physical/spiritual practices originating in Asia?

And then if Falun Gong practitioners are not brainwashed cultists anymore than anybody else around here, what about their torture in China. Is this an important human rights issue?
Does anyone have any opinions or experience with this?

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From the website:

http://www.falundafa.org/eng/index.htm

Q: What is Falun Dafa, or Falun Gong?
A: Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is an ancient practice for mind and body, originating in pre-historic China. The practice involves some slow, gentle movements and a meditation. It is easy to learn, enjoyable to practice, and free of charge. A central component of Falun Gong practice is studying the universal principles of truthfulness, benevolence, and tolerance.

Q: Who is Mr. Li Hongzhi?
A: Mr. Li Hongzhi introduced the practice of Falun Dafa to the general public in China in 1992. He then taught the practice publicly for two years in China, after which the practice continued to grow primarily by word-of-mouth. In keeping with Chinese tradition, Mr. Li is sometimes respectfully referred to as "Master" or "Teacher." He is not accorded special treatment, nor does he accept money or donations from students of Falun Dafa. He has ensured that the practice be available to all people, and without any terms or conditions. Mr. Li has given occasional public lectures over the past few years in various countries, including Australia, Switzerland, Canada, and the USA.

Q: Who practices Falun Dafa, and how do they find it beneficial?
A: Falun Dafa is practiced by people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, in more than 40 countries worldwide. Almost everyone who practices reports significantly improved health, reduced stress, and increased levels of energy.

Q: I'm interested in trying it out or learning more about it? How can I get started?
A: All practice sites offer free instruction, and everyone is welcome. To find a site near your home, you can visit http://www.falundafa.org on the Internet, or call 1-877-FALUN-99. All materials are available on-line. There are also instructional books and video tapes available from bookstores, you can visit http://www.truegoodbooks.com/to order them.