Zhang Yuhuan, a farmer in Jinxian county, Jiangxi province, was listed as a suspect in the murder of two children in 1993. Later, he was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment.

However, on Aug 4, the High People's Court of Jiangxi found him innocent. By the time he had a reunion with his family, Zhang had lost his freedom for over 26 years.

On Wednesday, Zhang applied for State compensation of 23.34 million yuan ($3.41 million). He also asked the court to apologize.

The compensation amount triggered discussions on social networking sites. Some said it is too high; others said no amount is enough to compensate for the freedom Zhang has lost.

It is for the court to decide what compensation Zhang should get. So it is inappropriate to discuss whether the amount is too hight or not.

Besides, this is not a trade-off. Nobody wants to forego freedom for compensation. The money is compensation for a wrong that cost someone his freedom, and it can help the person lead a better life after being cut off from society for over 26 years.

An investigation on how Zhang was wronged should be initiated. And the case should be a reminder to officials not to abuse their powers.