Let's find out more on the reaction to this heated topic in Hong Kong, from CCTV's Gavin Blackburn.

Article 104 has dominated local media in Hong Kong recently. It comes after two local lawmakers-elect used derogatory language and showed anti-China messages at a swearing-in ceremony for the region's legislative council in October.

The NPC Standing Committee's interpretation to Article 104, asserts that lawmakers-elect in Hong Kong should swear to uphold the SAR Basic Law and swear allegiance to Hong Kong SAR as part of China during the oath-taking ceremony.

"It is not allowed to separate Hong Kong from the country according to law. Through the interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law, the central government has set a limit line for the whole of Hong Kong society to obey," Dr. Thomas M. H. Chan with Chu Hai College of Higher Education, said.

Some local newspapers and periodicals have criticized the lawmakers-elect's behavior at the swearing in ceremony.

An editorial published in the Wen Wei Po newspaper said it is the responsibility of the NPC to actively interpret the Basic Law, and impose appropriate punishment on those who insult the country and advocate "Hong Kong independence".

The Ta Kung Pao paper reported that people in the legal profession gave their backing to the NPC's draft interpretation, and widely believed it can help clarify the issue and indicate the determination to oppose any separation.