Yes. But it's probably something along the lines of losing face. I think they are actually a bit ashamed to have done this. But the outcome is that they knocked the teeth from the masses for generations.

That being said, I personally think that unless there are exceptional circumstances the CCP will not let go. They are doubling down on control and invigilation. The chinese people will not see freedom in a long long time. Let's hope that at least Taiwan stays free.