It said local government should, by holding hearings or adopting other dispute resolution methods, ensure that the aggrieved have the chance to argue their case.

The "draft regulation on expropriation of houses on state-owned land and relevant compensation" was posted on the website of the Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council, to solicit public opinions till Feb. 12.

While developers argued the new draft had made any demolition difficult, if not impossible, law professor Fei Anling from China University of Political Science and Law said it was crucial to involve a third and neutral party to draft and implement the law to ensure fairness.

"It concerns citizens' rights and interest, as well as the benefits of the local government. An independent committee should therefore be entrusted to revise the rules and make sure it is properly implemented."