BEIJING - China's top authority for handling complaints and advice from the public formally started receiving petitions submitted via the Internet on Monday.

The State Bureau of Letters and Calls has created a special section on its website that allows Internet users to sign up and submit petitions.

People can lodge complaints when their rights are infringed upon as a result of the abuse of power on the part of authorities, enterprises, public institutions, civil groups or their employees, according to a guide posted on the bureau website.

They can also offer comments or suggestions regarding the work of the above-mentioned entities and their employees.

Shu Xiaoqin, head of the bureau, said at a meeting held to launch the online petitioning that concerned organs must fully understand the importance of employing Internet-based technology.

She described the Internet-based petitioning as a step required by both the times and the situation, according to a meeting statement.

The bureau aims to use the online platform to ensure transparency and improve public oversight, the official said.

She also urged authorities to continue to improve efficiency and make it more convenient for petitioners to have their voices heard.