Some universities in China have taken measures apparently aimed at preventing their students from protesting the government's anti-coronavirus measures.

The move comes after massive rallies against the "zero-COVID" policy in Beijing, Shanghai and elsewhere. Many young people, mainly university students, took part and criticized the ruling Communist Party.

The government is deploying many police officers to suppress further civil disobedience.

Coronavirus infections have been spreading in China recently, with about 36,000 new cases confirmed on Tuesday and a record high of about 4,500 in Beijing.

Some universities in Beijing and the southern city of Guangzhou, where rallies were held, have begun holding online classes and exams, citing the need for coronavirus measures.

They have also moved up the start of winter holidays to let students return home.

The state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Tuesday that the Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission confirmed that it will resolutely crack down on infiltration and sabotage activities of hostile forces and illegal activities that disturb social order.

Observers say China's leadership is again showing its stance of thoroughly suppressing any moves that could lead to criticism of one-party rule by the Communist Party and President Xi Jinping.