World’s ‘oldest Buddhist shrine’ found in Lumbini Vol. 02, Issue 99, Print Issue 23, 31 November 2013 His Holiness not to shift base from Himachal Pradesh
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Lets build a more peaceful world for the 7 billion human beings: His Holiness Dhalai Lama tells Japanese By Yeshe Choesang: 21 November 2013
McLeod Ganj is a suburb of Dharamshala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It has an average elevation of 2,082 metres (6,831 feet). Photo: TPI
By Yeshe Choesang: 24 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Putting an end to all speculations that the spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness Dalai Lama would be shifting base from McLeodganj, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay on Saturday, 24 Nov. told news reporters that His Holiness would remain in Dharamshala, where he has been living for the past 50 years. “His Holiness the Dalai Lama loves Himachal Pradesh and Dharamshala, where he has been staying for the past over 50 years. He is not leaving the place,” said Sangay. P- 7......
CTA hopeful of fresh dialogue with China: Sikyong
Tokyo: - “Japan is one of the most fully modernised nations and it’s a country whose religious traditions place great value on peace,” the spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama said on Wednesday, while urging Japanese to join him in the wish to build a more peaceful world for the 7 billion human beings. His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed approximately 150 members of the Japanese Parliament on Wednesday, November 20, 2013 during a meeting with an All Party Parliamentary Group, which formed by eight political parties of the country. His Holiness drove to the National Diet Building, home of the Japanese Parliament, to address an All Party Parliamentary Group. He was received on arrival by Eriko Yamatani, Chairperson of the Committee that invited him, and senior parliamentarian Takeo Hiranuma. They escorted him to the meeting. In attendance were 150 parliamentarians from eight political parties and the secretaries of 50 others who were unable to come themselves. They broke into rousing applause as he entered the room. Ms Yamatani welcomed His Holiness and invited him to address the gathering. He began by explaining that wherever he is invited to speak, he likes to address his listeners as brothers and sisters, because as human beings we are all the same. “Respected brothers and sisters, I’m extremely happy to be here once more. I would like to tell you of my deep gratitude to all those involved in making this meeting possible. You have expressed warm feelings of friendship and deep concern for which I would like to thank you.” He went on to explain that many of the problems we face are of our own making, because we pay too much attention to the secondary differences between us. In fact all 7 billion human beings share a desire to live a happy life and have the same right
His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the All Party Parliamentarian Group at the National Diet Building in Tokyo, Japan on November 20, 2013. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL
to fulfil that desire. In that context there should be no scope for one group to harm another. “Throughout human history we have tended to divide people into ‘them’ and ‘us’, which inevitably leads to conflict. On a human level, there is no real basis for such divisions; we are
Lithang Monastery severely damaged by heavy fire
all part of ‘us’. It is not that there are no differences between us, but they are secondary to the fact that we all belong to one human family, living on this one blue planet that is our home. We need to make an effort to build a peaceful, happy human community.” P- 7......
Rinpo Yak arrives in Kangra
Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay at the Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla on Nov. 23, attended by staff and more than 200 students. Photo: CTA/DIIR
By Yeshe Choesang: 23 November 2013
Dharamshala: - The Central Tibetan Administration on Saturday, 23 Nov. expressed the hope that dialogue over the vexed Tibetan issue could resume after China presented its newly formulated economic and security policies in its parliament. “China is formulating new security and economic policies and we have learnt that the new policies differ from those of the American National Security Council as the Chinese policies will have dual duties with responsibility over domestic security as well as foreign policy,” Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay told Indian reporters on the sidelines of the Himalayan festival at the historic ridge. Dr Sangay said the task force constituted by the Central Tibetan Administration to assist the dialogue with China would study the new economic and security policies of China. Sikyong of Tibet said dialogue was the only way to resolve the half-a-century-old Tibetan issue. P- 7......
Rinpo Yak was greeted by Tibetan NGOs near Dharamshala, India, on 29 Nov., 2013. Photo: TPI
By Choneyi Sangpo: 28 November 2013
Tibetan MPs delegation concludes Europe tour The main prayer hall at the Ganden Thubchen Choekhorling Monastery in Lithang County, severely damaged by a fire, Nov. 18, 2013. Photo: TPI
By Yeshe Choesang: 18 November 2013
A Chinese Google user with a bouquet of flowers at the Google China headquarters in Beijing Photograph: JASON LEE/REUTERS
By Yeshe Choesang: 26 November 2013
Dharamshala: - A five-member delegation of theTibetan parliament in exile led by the Speaker Mr Penpa Tsering concluded on Nov 25 a five-nation tour of Europe with a meeting with Mr John Bercow, the Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom. According to a CTA report, Speaker Bercow and others expressed solidarity with the Tibetans in Tibet for their suffering. They were also stated to have assured continued support for the Middle Way policy and the non-violent struggle of the exile Tibetan administration. The delegation also met with several other members of the British parliament. During its November 1-24 tour, the delegation has also visited Belgium, France, Netherlands, and Germany.
Dharamshala: -- Reports coming out of Tibet said, a fire almost entirely destroyed one of the three main temples of Lithang Monastery in Kham Region of eastern Tibet. The flames engulfed the roof of the building and damaged early printed books, statues and ancient Tibetan writings, including an exquisite antique Thangka of Palden Lhamo, one of the most popular relics. However, some of the cultural artifacts inside were saved,” Geshe Kalsang Gelek, a Buddhist monk living in exile told The Tibet Post International. According to the sources, “the wild-fire broke out Saturday, November 16, (10 p.m. local time) after an electrical appliance in the second-floor visitors’ reception area short-circuited.” According to Chinese state-run media reports, ‘It took more than six hours and the efforts of 2,500 paramilitary officers, police, government workers, monks and herdsman, as well as fire trucks and other firefighting equipment to bring the fire under control.’ “The fire was extinguished before it could spread to the monastery’s other prayer halls and living quarters. But, it is impossible to estimate damage right now,” he added. The monastery consists of three main temples, one of which was reconstructed in 2011. Ganden Thubten Choekhorling or Lithang Gonchen was a home to many famous and influential figures in Tibetan Buddhism, such as the 7th Dalai Lama Kalsang Gyatso
and the 10th Dalai Lama Tsultrim Gyatso. “Currently, there are over one thousand monks residing and studying at the monastery, including over 600 hundred students from the School of Buddhist Philosophy and nearly 200 monks from the Tantric College,” Geshe Gelek added. Located in the historical Tibetan region of Kham Province, eastern Tibet, which is known for its independent-minded warriors, the Lithang Monastery has been at the center of several clashes between Tibetans and the Chinese authorities. During the 1950s, the region around Lithang was one of the main areas of Tibetan armed resistance to the presence of the Chinese troops. A resistance group called “Four Rivers, Six Ranges” was active in the eastern Tibet. In 1956 the Chinese military laid siege to the monastery with airstrikes and ground troops, killing many of the monks and laymen who had barricaded themselves inside. The town is located at an altitude of 4,014 metres. It is on open grassland and surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is about 400 meters higher than Lhasa, making it one of the highest towns in the world. A crackdown officially described as “patriotic education campaign” followed in autumn of 2007, including several politically motivated arrests and attempts to force local Tibetans to denounce His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Dharamshala: - Rinpo Yak arrived in Kangra district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, India on 28 November 2013 after cycling across Asia and Europe. Dharamshala is the last destination where he is concluding his cycle campaign for Tibet. Friends and supporters are invited to join his events in the McLeod Ganj Town. He started his solitary cycle campaign from Belgium on 10th March, 2013 to highlight the critical situation inside Tibet and to create awareness about the Tibetans who have self Immolated since 2009. He has travelled to over 18 countries and have met more than 150 Members of Parliament.
A drunk man with a huge python
The simple lesson to be learned: don’t get drunk anywhere until you are safe. Photo: file By Choneyi Sangpo: 28 November 2013
Dharamshala: According to social media reports on 28 Nov., a drunk man was eaten by a huge python. When someone drink hard, you might find yourself waking up in very strange places. However in some places in the world it’s quite risky to drink till you drop. A drunk man in Kerala India was taking a nap outside a liquor store today, when he was discovered by a huge python. Unfortunately the large snake smothered and ate him. The incident happened in the Attapadi area in the state Kerala. So if you ever have plans to go anywhere on holiday, you better wait to get drunk until you are safe.
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TPI NEWS
31 November 2013
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Editorial:
Does economic prosperity decreases the importance of Human Rights? 30 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Does economic prosperity reduce the importance of democracy and Human Rights? China is leaving the world behind in terms of economic progress. This is undoubtedly a huge boost to the well-being of the world’s largest population, and the benefits of this progress may also do muchgood for its economic allies, neighbors and some other developing nations. However, this phenomenal economic prosperity is coupled withdenial of basic democratic norms, free speech and human rights, which arebeing harshly and visibly repressed by Chinese policy. Opinionshapers around the world are beginning to take note. Critics around the world have been decrying Chinese policy regarding the limitation of freedom of speech and other basic civil liberties for over sixty years. If there is no end to Chinese dictatorship, it will be prevented from becoming a global superpower. The current plight of Tibet -wherein more than one hundred men and women have been driven to sacrifice themselves in the name of freedom - should be a matter of grave concern for anyone concerned with human rights, freedom, nonviolence and justice. Their ethnicity and nationality should not matter, because they were all were human beings, born free and equal in dignity and rights. Now is the time that the world must come together in support of the peaceful and decades-long nonviolent struggle of Tibetans, to protect their ancient culture and religion. Moreover, for the sake of humanity and without any prejudices, people of conscience must condemn the inhuman atrocities being committed against innocent Tibetans by the totalitarian communist regime. It is indisputable that, six decades ago, the people of Tibet were deprived of their fundamental freedoms and rights, and it continues to this day. Tibet was occupied by the Communist China in 1949 and 1.2 million Tibetans were killed. Thousands of Tibetans were forced to flee their homeland in pursuit of freedom, livelihood, and education in the exile community. The regime’s new strategy for containing Tibet’s struggle for freedom is severely unjust. With an eye on curbing what it calls “anti-China activities,” the totalitarian regime has in recent years enlisted the support of its small but strategically important neighbor, Nepal, which serves as a crucial transit path for those traveling to India. According to reports in 2010, the regime has “asked Kathmandu to step up patrols … and make it more difficult for Tibetans to enter Nepal and rewards Nepalese forces by providing financial incentives to officers who hand over Tibetans attempting to exit Tibet.” The reality is that the so called “border management” and “information sharing” initiatives have emerged as key areas of collaboration between the two states, with some reports claiming Nepalese police are receiving training and equipment from the Chinese.
Under an informal agreement made in 1989 between the Nepalese and the U.N. refugee agency, Nepal pledged to allow fleeing Tibetans to pass safely to India. Now, the world knows that trust is eroding. In recent years, Nepal’s hospitality towards Tibetan refugees has waned — and the reason, many say, is China’s growing influence on the country’s political elite. Since 2008,the number of Tibetans making the journey to India has plummeted. From the early 1990s until 2007, some 2,500 Tibetans were arriving in India each year. In 2008, that number dropped to under 600, and has since hovered at about 800 refugees per year. A key reason is that China has significantly tightened security, not only inside Tibet but also along the border with Nepal, choking off crucial escape routes. The international community, particularly the UN are failing to investigate all crimes under international law and violations and abuses of international human rights law. Instead, the cases involving Tibetans are treated differently because of the political sensitivity of Tibet with China. The international community should be aware how Tibetan Culture has been systematically destroyed by the Chinese government during the last six decades. Certainly, this whole series of events, including the biggest waves of self-immolations in modern history, is shameful for the entire world, which in spite of declaring war against terrorism, allows the freedom movement of Tibetans in the Himalayan region to be crushed. Furthermore, the iron-fisted rulers in Beijing must understand that under all circumstances, China needs to gain the world’s trust. It doesn’t matter if the rulers are Chinese or Han, they cannot maintain their authoritarian regime on the strength of violence, and in the absence of a meaningful and peaceful engagement with Tibetans. If Beijing will not seek a solution for Tibet in an honest manner, they will never overcome their problems of trust. Therefore, China must learn from the statement made by Adolph Hitler on the basis of his experiences, in which he said in 1943, “Ruling the people even in the conquered regions, I might say of course a psychological problem. One cannot rule by force alone.” Day-by-day, the world’s situation is changing rapidly. However, the world will never forget meaningful values like peace, hope and freedom. The global community is not blind. The problems of Tibet have attracted the attention of every reasonable person, and the vast majority of the people have sympathy for Tibetans. Therefore, it is in the interest of the Chinese government itself that it considers the legitimate demands of Tibetans and seeks a peaceful solution to this problem. China must realize that it will be unable to change Tibetans’ hearts and minds by continuing its hard-line, inflexible policies and harsh political control. So how can the issue of Tibet be resolved? Beijing must look deep inside itself; and without any further delay engage with peaceful Tibetan demands for genuine autonomy for Tibet.
Opinion
The Great False Hope: Why the UN offers no solution decisions, including the use force. Appointment of the Secretary General is also subject to veto, providing the UN’s leader little incentive to invite Chinese opposition by raising Tibetan concerns. There is an important role in the world for the UN, such as providing security for refugees within active conflict zones, but bringing freedom to Tibet is beyond it’s realistic abilities. It’s a forum where the world can criticize China and nothing more. Unable to impose serious consequences on China for it’s appalling behavior, the UN lacks the tools to meaningfully help Tibet even if it had the will.
Why individual foreign governments offer no solution
China’s Communist Party leadership announced a 60-point reform plan last week which moves the country toward a more open and liberalized economy. But if Beijing’s treatment of Tibet is any indication, constraints on political freedoms won’t be loosened anytime soon. Exiled Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay visited The Journal’s offices recently to discuss the situation, which has worsened since Tibetans rose up to protest the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Since then, Beijing has sent waves of Han Chinese to effectively colonize the region, cracked down on religious expression, detained supporters of the Dalai Lama, and even “installed CCTV cameras” in small villages, Mr. Sangay says. More ominously, China has also tightened security along its border with Nepal, a mountainous area which has long served as the primary escape route for Tibetans to Nepal, and ultimately, to Dharmsala, India, the home of the Tibetan government-in-exile. “Before 2008, 3,000 to 5,000 people fled via Nepal annually,” Mr. Sangay says, but now it’s “less than
1,000.” Chinese security officials even pursue Tibetans Nepal and are training that country’s security officials, Mr. Sangay notes. Repatriated Tibetans face interrogation, imprisonment or torture upon their return. Tibetans have reacted to the crackdown by selfimmolating, a practice Mr. Sangay calls “horrific.” Since February 2009, 123 people have died in this manner, with the latest victim a 20-year-old monk named Tsering Gyal, who passed earlier this month. On his deathbed he expressed support for “the unity of Tibetans inside and outside of Tibet, and said it was his hope that Tibetans can remain united and protect and uphold the Tibetan language,” Radio Free Asia reports. “In 2008, the majority of the protestors were monks,” Mr. Sangay says, but now protests are “region-wide” and include “lay people” and “students.” He emphasizes that Tibetans want autonomy, not secession, and he remains open to dialogue with China’s leaders, a process that’s been frozen since January 2010. Meanwhile the Dalai Lama continues to call for peaceful protest. Given the circumstances, it’s unclear how long Tibetans will heed that advice.
Tibet, experience in America has shown that many people still don’t know anything about Tibet. Mention Tibet and the typical American is as apt to respond with a puzzled look as have any notion of Tibetan history, culture or politics. Many of the vocal Tibet supporters found in Dharamshala strongly identify with Tibetan Buddhism, but estimates put the total Buddhist population in America from all traditions at less than two percent of the total population. Generously assuming that all Buddhists would support Tibet and that only half of active Tibet supports are Buddhists, the base of active supporters would still fall well short of five percent of the population, not nearly enough to demand political action from their governments. For everybody else, “Free Tibet” is often seen as a new-agey cause tied up with Eastern spirituality or something college students get into for awhile then drift away from. Most Westerners are more concerned with issues like homelessness in their own area than Tibet’s problems. Again, financial support is important and well appreciated, but foreign sponsors should be seen as a temporary band-aid, not a long-term strategy. Sponsors, no matter how generous, can’t buy freedom, and protesters, no matter how loud, are hard to hear from Beijing. What outside friends of Tibet can offer is help, not a solution.
Why the United Nations offers no solution
The government of any country is unlikely to act in a way other than in it’s own interest. In the democratic Western countries most able to help Tibet, the leaders are charged with representing their own citizens, and it is those citizens alone who hold the leaders accountable. Western powers are heavily invested in trade with China and need China’s cooperation on global problems, the pursuit of nuclear weapons by North Korea for example. However personally sympathetic to the suffering of Tibetans the leaders of Western powers may be, they have shown great reluctance to confront China with the threat of significant consequences over Tibet so far, and it is very improbable they ever will in the absence of clear benefits to their own countries for doing so. The effect of Western policy has generally been to maintain the status quo on Tibet. It should be no surprise, the direct interest of Western powers in the Tibetan situation is to highlight human rights violations in Tibet as the basis of a moral argument to contain China’s expanding influence. Their advantage is in continuing to use the issue to isolate China in the world community, making genuine a solution to Tibet’s problems a low priority if not no priority at all.
The United Nations is not a democracy. Even if every member of the UN other than China unanimously agreed on a tough resolution demanding change in Tibet, it wouldn’t matter, China could still kill that resolution with a veto. Most real power in the UN rests with the five members of the Security Council, which includes China. Without agreement from all five Security Council members, the UN cannot pass resolutions or make other meaningful
As seen from India, the large number of people who travel long distances to visit Dharamsala would seem to indicate a massive population of enthusiastic supporters. On the ground in the West the view is quite different. Despite the considerable money and effort that has been directed at advocacy and raising awareness about
If there is going to be a solution for Tibet, it will have to come from within the community. There is hope, there is a history of other causes that have brought radical change against seemingly impossible obstacles, like the anti-colonial movement in India, anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, and civil rights struggle in the United States. These movements took time, but in the end they won. It is also important to think about a better future in terms of preparing the next generation to succeed in the world. Today’s children can have the opportunities their parents never did. Education and healthy families need to be priorities so that they can have happy and stable lives wherever live, and if we do achieve freedom, they will be the ones who lead Tibet forward. The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and does not necessarily reflects the editorial policy of The Tibet Post International. You can reach her at kunsangdolma@hotmail.com
the manifestation of Avalokiteshvara (the Buddha of Compassion). This reverence exceeds any political leverage and is not born out of greatness of the title, but the greatness of the person. It represents the Tibetans’ active participation in serving the sacred duties of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This act of service is at the center of the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, which predates the Communist Party in China , as well as the Marxist ideology. During the last few decades, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been proposing dialogue with the Chinese communist leaders, in order to find a mutually beneficial solution. Along with the Tibetan people, he has peacefully sought genuine autonomy for Tibet within the scope of the constitution of the People’s Republic of China, while advising against violence that drive other movements to militant struggles worldwide. However, Chen Quanguo’s article will further antagonize Tibetans in Tibet. This is because his article disregards Tibetan values and imposes his perceived superior ideology. Such leftist opportunism played out in Tibet will derail any lofty proclamation like ‘Chinese Dream’. Chen Quanguo’s hardline pronouncement on Tibet are encouraged by two main reasons. One is the example shown by Hu Jintao who was catapulted from Party Secretary in TAR to the highest position in China after series of violent repression carried inside Tibet in late 80s. More than often, Party’s hardline mood in Beijing overdrives local leaders into employing repressive means. Last April, the Central Committee of the Communist Party’s General office in China circulated a confidential memo to its Party leaders, now leaked and known as Document 9. The document details “Noteworthy Problems Related to the Current State of the Ideological Sphere” and aims to impose a “unwavering adherence to the principle of the Party’s control of media”.
The document calls on Communist leaders to “persist in correct guidance of public opinion, insisting that the correct political orientation suffuse every domain and process in political engagement, form, substance, and technology”. It lists seven perils that could unsettle the Communist Party monopoly in China and directs its cadres to engage in an “intense struggle” against constitutional democracy, civil society, “nihilistic” views of history, “universal values,” and the promotion of “the West’s view of media”, among others. Such a hardline tendency will empower provincial leaders to carry out unwarranted repression of ethnic groups who have different values and views than the Communist Party. For instance, in Tawu (Ch. Daofu), Yulshul (Ch. Yushu) in eastern Tibet and Driru (Ch. Biru) under TAR earlier this year, local People’s Armed Police had their hands free to violently suppress Tibetans without slightest provocation. This was obviously encouraged by the mood in Beijing. Chinese leaders in Beijing should be mindful of the implications of such policies in Tibet. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the most authoritative person for Tibetans, with a reconciliatory intent and a path to solve the issue of Tibet. He is constantly guiding Tibetans towards nonviolence and compassion. Tibetans inside Tibet risk grave punitive actions by the police just in order to procure his portrait. In light of such conducive factors, the failure to reach a peaceful resolution to the Tibetan issue while the 14th Dalai Lama is healthy and active would be a devastating mistake on the part of contemporary Chinese leadership. Tsering Wangchuk is the Press Officer of Department of Information and International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration. Reach him at: tibetpressofficer@tibet.net The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and does not necessarily reflects the editorial policy of The Tibet Post International.
Kunsang Dolma. Photo: Media File By Kunsang Dolma, 30 November 2013
Bath, Maine, US: - Hopes for international solidarity behind Tibetan political goals recently met another setback when China was elected to an uncontested regional seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council. Although the importance of foreign financial support should not be discounted, concrete measures to apply pressure on China to resolve human rights violations in Tibet has been in short supply. Unfortunately, as the world community continues to pursue normal diplomatic and trade relations with China, it is increasingly hard to imagine that the weak existing international pressures on China are going to become any stronger. Expectations otherwise may be doing the Tibetan cause a disservice by placing the faith and energy of Tibet supporters in direction with very limited potential.
Why foreign individuals and NGOs offer no solution
The Way Forward
Beijing’s Party Boss in Tibet Plans to Separate The 14th Dalai Lama From Tibetan Buddhism By Tsering Wangchuk: 28 November 2013
Don’t Forget Tibet: Sikyong By Mary Kissel , The Wall Street Journal 21 November 2013
The Tibet Post International
Chen Quanguo, the current Party Secretary of the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR). Photo: Media File
Dharamshala: - Recently, just prior to the Third Plenum, Chen Quanguo, the current Party Secretary of the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR), published an article in Qiushi (“Seeking Truth”) titled ‘Ensuring the Security of Tibet’s Ideological Realm with the Spirit of Daring to Show the Sword’. He pledges to “thoroughly carry out the educational activities of comparing old Tibet with the New Tibet, instructing people of various ethnic groups to be grateful to the Party, listen to the Party and follow the Party”. Ironically, he is expressing the kind of imperialist mentality that the Communist Party criticizes and claims to fight against. In dealing with Tibetans, he vows to “educate and guide cadres and ordinary people of various ethnic groups to separate Tibetan Buddhism from the fourteenth Dalai Lama, and separate the fourteenth Dalai Lama from the title of Dalai Lama...”. This statement shows that after 60 years of rule in Tibet, some CCP leaders are yet to understand Tibet’s intrinsic spiritual and cultural aspects. Tibetans believe His Holiness the Dalai Lama is
The Tibet Post International
TPI NEWS
exile news
Tenzin Delek Rinpoche in very critical condition, calls for world’s help
Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, deputy speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile speaking to media during the press conference in Dharamshala, India, on November 25, 2013. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo By Yeshe Choesang: 26 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Tibetans in exile, on Monday, 25 Nov. appealed International community and Tibet support groups to urge and pressure China to release the imprisoned Buddhist leader, Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, who is serving a life sentence. Today marks eleven years, since Tenzin Delek Rinpoche was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Chinese Government. “Whatever the Chinese authorities do and say, he is completely innocent, a newly formed group of his followers in exile called “Service-committee to Tenzin Delek Rinpoche” said at a press conference held in Dharamshala, India. Commemorating his 64th Birthday, Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and members of the committee released a thirty-minute long documentary film on Rinpoche, “Fearless Times of Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche.” The Buddhist monk who served 11 years of a life sentence in a Chinese jail “turns 64 Monday,
November 25,” the group said in a statement. “As the whole world knows, the religious leader was charged with false allegation, accusing him of exploding bomb and splitting the nation,” the statement added. The group said that ‘some of his relatives had visited him a couple of times since he was jailed in 2002. A recent time they met him was in Chuandong Prison in Dazhu County on August 16, 2013, where they had around half an hour conversation.’ A recent letter from the Buddhist leader said that he had “done nothing to violate Chinese laws, further asking his relatives to arrange for re-trial or appeal for medical parole.” “Unfortunately, the letter was forcibly seized by local police of the Nyagchu County and never returned, after they promised to hand over it to a next visitor,” they added. “Therefore, some of his relatives had approached with lawsuit to the higher Chinese court about the
false judgements, but their all appeals rejected,” the group stated. In a secretly recorded message, smuggled out of Tibet, he had said: “Whatever the authorities do and say, I am completely innocent.” The last time they met him was on November 6, 2013. During the meeting, he has strongly reiterated his innocence and urged his followers and students to appeal the Chinese government for his immediate release. “You make appeals to authorities as much as you can. There are people who are making appeals for me, there are people who are talking about my condition getting worse. If there was a possibility to fall then I should have already fallen. You do appeal and campaign, anything that you could do,” Tenzin Delek had told them. “We strongly appeal International communitygovernments, NGOs Tibet support groups and individuals to urge and pressure China to release Tenzin Delek Rinpoche immediately,” the newly formed committee said. His “condition has become very critical, whole body shakes uncontrollably while communicating with someone and he also falls unconscious sometimes. Therefore, it is extremely worrisome that how long he will survive,” the committee told reporters. Human rights groups and United Nations human rights experts protested that the case against him was seriously flawed, that he did not receive a fair trial, and was mistreated in detention. He is also widely known for working to develop social, medical, educational and religious institutions for Tibetan nomads in eastern Tibet, as an advocate for environmental conservation in the face of indiscriminate logging and mining projects, and as a mediator between Tibetans and Chinese. Tenzin Delek also became a public figure by leading social welfare activities such as building schools and hospitals. During his five-year stay in India from 19821987, He had an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who praised him for his work in Tibet.
31 November 2013
Tibetan administration saddened
by Fire at Lithang monastery By Yeshe Choesang: 25 November 2013
Dharamshala: - The 14th Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration expressed their condolences over the recent severe fire in Lithang County of Eastern Tibet, which has severely damaged one of the three historic Buddhist temples of the county. “The Kashag would like to send its deepest condolences to the monks of the monastery and the Tibetans in Lithang,” Kashag said in a condolence statement issued on November 22, 2013. “We are concerned with the destruction caused by fire to some historic statues and artefacts of the monastery,” the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) based in Dharamsala, India said in the statement. “We pray for the quick restoration of the monastery and for the continuation of its four
Dharamshala: - Tibetans showcased their beautiful culture and tradition at a day-long Himalayan festival at Shimla, the capital of northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, on Saturday, November 24, 2013 2. The festival – jointly organised by Department of Tourism, Himachal State Government and Department of Home of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA)– was aimed at promoting friendship and cultural understanding among peoples especially those living in the Himalayan regions. According to CTA, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh inaugurated the festival. Dignitaries present on the occasion include Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Health Kalon Dr. Tsering Wangchuk and Director of Tourism Mohan Chauhan. In his introductory address, Health Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchul said the festival was aimed at bringing different cultures and people across the Himalayas to a common forum to foster understanding, appreciation, exchanges and dialogue among the people of the region. In his address, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh said: “Tibet is a land of religion, and is a repository of unique and beautiful culture, language and religion. “It is our responsibility to take care of Tibetans living in exile and especially ensure that Tibetan children receive a good education,” said the chief minister, whose family shares a special historical relationship with Tibet and Tibetan people.
“We hope and pray to god that Tibetans in exile will return to their homeland with dignity within my lifetime,” he said. Addressing the gathering, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay said: “We express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Himachal Pradesh for their long-standing support to the Tibetan people.” “We are very grateful that the chief minister, whose family shares historical relationships with Tibetans, has always extended his support whenever Tibetans need it,” he said. “His Holiness the Dalai Lama would be very happy for the joint effort of government of Himachal Pradesh and CTA in organising the Himalayan Festival. It will send a message to the international community to visit the beautiful, green and peaceful state of Himachal Pradesh,” Sikyong said. Chief Minister and Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay visited different stalls showcasing cultures, handicrafts, traditional medicines, and cuisines of the Himalayan regions. The Tibetan stalls included an exhibition on the history of Tibet and journey into exile by the Tibet Museum and the screening of films on His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Tibet by Audio Visual Section of the Department of Information & International Relations, CTA; medical camp and expo by Men-Tsee Khang: sand mandala presentation by Dorjee Drak Monastery based in Shimla and Tibetan cuisines by Hotel Tibet in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala.
By Yeshe Choesang: 25 November 2013
Dharamshala: - The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) appealed to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on Monday to show its concern for status of Tibetan women inside Tibet, affected adversely under the Chinese policies. “In observance of the United Nations’ ‘Convention on Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women,’ (CEDAW), the Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) would like to draw the attention of UN CEDAW committee to the status of Tibetan women inside Tibet, affected adversely under the Chinese policies,” TWA said in a statement. “Although China has made commitments to the UN to abide by the UN conventions,
Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay during the Himalayan Festival in Shimla on 23 November 2013. Photo: CTA/DIIR
The main prayer hall at the Ganden Thubchen Choekhorling Monastery in Lithang County, eastern Tibet, following the fire, Nov. 18, 2013. Photo: TPI by Yeshe Choesang: 22 October 2013
Dharamshala: - The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile expressed their condolences over the recent severe fire in Lithang County of Eastern Tibet, which has severely damaged one of the three historic Buddhist temples of the county. “We express our heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the local Tibetans and especially the monks of Lithang monastery. We pray for the quick restoration of the monastery which serves as a great centre of learning for Tibetans,” the Tibetan Parliament said in a condolence statement issued on November 21, 2013. The flames engulfed the roof of the building on 16 November 2013 and severely damaged early printed books and statues. However, some of the cultural artifacts inside were saved, sources told The Tibet Post Ineternational (TPI News) the day after the incident. According to the sources, the fire was extinguished before it could spread to the monastery’s other prayer halls and living quarters. The monastery consists of three main temples, one of which was reconstructed in 2011. Ganden Thubten Choekhorling or Lithang Gonchen was a home to many famous and influential figures in Tibetan Buddhism, such as the 7th Dalai Lama Kalsang Gyatso and the 10th Dalai Lama Tsultrim Gyatso. Exiled Tibetan sources to TPI News say, Currently, there are over one thousand monks residing and
hundred year old tradition of spreading the dharma,” the Kashag said. The flames engulfed the roof of the building on 16 November 2013 and severely damaged early printed books and statues. However, some of the cultural artifacts inside were saved, sources told The Tibet Post Ineternational (TPI News) the day after the incident. According to the sources, the fire was extinguished before it could spread to the monastery’s other prayer halls and living quarters around the monastery. The monastery consists of three main temples, one of which was reconstructed in 2011. Ganden Thubten Choekhorling or Lithang Gonchen was a home to many famous and influential figures in Tibetan Buddhism, such as the 7th Dalai Lama Kalsang Gyatso and the 10th Dalai Lama Tsultrim Gyatso.
Exiled women urges UN to show concern for women inside Tibet
Culture and tradition of Tibet Exiled parliament conveys condolences over monastery fire damage showcased at Himalayan Festival By Jane Cook: 26 November 2013
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studying at the monastery, including over 600 hundred students from the School of Buddhist Philosophy and nearly 200 monks from the Tantric College. The town is located at an altitude of 4,014 metres. It is on open grassland and surrounded by snowcapped mountains and is about 400 meters higher than Lhasa, making it one of the highest towns in the world.
TWA members and supporters appealed to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on Monday to show its concern for status of Tibetan women inside Tibet. Photo: TPI TWA members and supporters appealed to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on Monday to show its concern for status of Tibetan women inside Tibet. Photo: TPI
it is palpable that China has been critically disengaged with its international commitments and its very own constitutional confirmations,” the women group said. “The family planning policy that prohibits Tibetan women from having a certain number of children infringes on the reproductive rights of Tibetan women,” the group said, adding that “rampant cases forced abortion and sterilization violates a women’s human right. “Even the policies in the field of education deters a Tibetan from learning one’s own mother tongue.” The group says, “It forces Tibetan nuns and monks to comply with the patriotic reeducation campaign. Even the employment policies discriminate Tibetans, particularly Tibetan women by not according equal pay for equal work. The basic fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and expression are curtailed.” “The draconian and repressive Chinese policies violates the social, political, economic and religious rights of Tibetan women thus compelling Tibetans to resort to extreme measures to make themselves heard. Since 2009, 123 Tibetans have committed acts of selfimmolation and of them 20 are women: mothers, young students and nuns,” he group added. Therefore on this day of observing of UNCEDAW, TWA said “it stands in solidarity with the Tibetans inside Tibet and advocates their aspirations-freedom inside Tibet and to live with human dignity.”
Melbourne celebrates “The Tibet Effect 2013” By Ruta Vilkaite: 25 November 2013
Melbourne: On the 22nd of November Melbourne Tibetan community held the annual event called “The Tibet Effect” in one of the most beautiful city churches - St. Luke’s Hungarian Reformed Church. The event was organised by Elyjah McLeod, a long time Tibet supporter. He greeted the audience and was pleased to remind gathered crowed that the money collected during this event will go to support the Tibetan Children Village Scholl in Dharamshala. On such generosity notes, the event started with Tibetan performers and remarkably rich voice owners Tenzing Yeshi and Lhamo Dolma songs accompanied by traditional string instrument drangyen. Their traditional outfits and the sounds from the rooftop of the world gave a glimpse to an ancient culture. Singers were also joined by Tsering Dhondup who arrived to Australia only six
months ago from U-Tsang, Nangchu in the region called Pharda Dew. He surprised the audience with authentic nomadic songs that he learned by listening elders sing. Alongside Tibetan performers, there were a line of Melbourne’s finest musicians and performers. Singers performed their songs mostly in English with a culmination reaching when they applied traditional throat singing technique to the song which no doubt, left the audience in astonishment. During the break gathered crowed were treated with cupcakes which also had a Tibetan feeling to it – “others before you” written in Tibetan. This motto is the main ideology in TCV School where children are encouraged to care for others as their priority. Lastly, all Tibetans in the crowed were asked to come forward and sing Tibetan national anthem. There was a great family and unity feeling within the community and such events as “The Tibet Effect” strengthens the ties between those in exile.
The Tibet Post International TIBET NEWS Chinese court in Tibet jails Buddhist monk EESC president expresses concern over rights violations in Tibet Hortsang Tamdrin on separatism charge
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TPI NEWS
31 November 2013
in Zamthang for the self-immolator and allegedly praising the uniting among the Tibetans in the traditional provinces of Tibet and accused of spread the message about Tibetan independence to split the nation,” a Tibetan living in exile, told The Tibet Post International. The sources stated that “Tamdrin was arrested by Chinese authorities on April 24, 2013 during an annual festival gathering at the Tsangpa Monastery in Zamthang. Since his arrest, the monastery was put under heavy surveillance by Chinese authorities and security forces were also deployed in large numbers in the area.” “The Tsangpa Monastery is one of the largest
Buddhist center in the area, having about two thousand monks,” source added. Tsangwa Monastery was established by Lodro Namgyal, one of Taranatha’s heart disciples. In 1658, the year that Taranatha’s Takten Damcho Ling was officially converted in U-Tsang, Lodro Namgyal bestowed the full Kalachakra empowerment at this religious site during its inauguration ceremony. “Recent attempts by the Chinese authorities to force the monks to stop some ongoing constructions of the monastery. They also ordered that some of newly built houses must be demolished,” it said. The sources also said that “Local Tibetans say local authorities suspect him for contacting the outside. However, his health condition and the charges for his sentence still remain a mystery and unclear.” Authorities in the region have intensified their repressive policies by criminalizing the selfimmolation protests, arresting and sentencing family members and friends of protesters and off late, accused of supporting a self-immolation protest and of leaking news of protests to outside contacts. There have now been a verified total of 122 Tibetans living under the communist regime who have set themselves on fire and of them 104 were reportedly passed-away from their severe burn injuries, marking one of the biggest waves of political self-immolation protests in recent history. In 2013 alone, 24 Tibetans set themselves on fire to protest against China to end its government’s hardline policies against Tibet and the Tibetan people. They have called for the return of the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, to Tibet and freedom for Tibetans.
political activist in exile. After his brief stay in exile, Lhamo returned to Tibet in 2006 with a mission to free his homeland from the Chinese occupation.” “Lhamo was subsequently arrested, imprisoned and tortured for three years in the dreaded Chushur Prison located in the outskirts of Lhasa city. Apart from documenting the ordeals of a Tibetan political prisoner, the film captures the harrowing tale of self-immolation protests in Tibet and its impact on the Tibetan struggle for freedom. Since monk Tapey’s self-immolation on 27 February 2009, 128 Tibetans have set themselves on fire, protesting Chinese government policies, and calling for Tibet’s freedom and the return of the Dalai Lama. On the occasion of the documentary’s launch in India, Lhamo Kyab said: “The focus of the film is not just my personal life story; it pays tribute to the incredible determination and courage of the Tibetan people who have been resisting Chinese repression for more than six decades.” According to the synopsis of the documentary,
“Lhamo Kyab, a Tibetan nomad, escapes into exile in India, only to return secretly to Tibet on a symbolic journey to highlight his people’s suffering. Meanwhile, 100 Tibetans set themselves on fire inside Tibet. ‘A Sacrifice’ considers the implications of the sacrifices being committed by Tibetans in the name of freedom.” TCHRD hopes that this film will create much needed awareness and support for Tibet’s ongoing non-violent resistance against the Chinese policies that are geared towards what the exile Tibetan leader the Dalai Lama aptly refers to as ‘Cultural Genocide.’ Theo Hessing made his first documentary while studying at the UK’s National Film and Television School. ‘The Cleaner’ followed James Ayala, a Colombian night worker responsible for cleaning London’s football stadiums while the city slept. ‘A Sacrifice’, Theo’s second film, was shot in 2012 in the midst of one of India’s severest monsoons. Now in London, he is interested in partnering with likeminded collaborators on social documentary and video journalism projects in the UK and further afield.
Internet service to the area has now been disconnected and local Tibetans are being restricted in their movements, with some searched at gunpoint.The Tibetans’ movements are being restricted and the officials are warning that if a self-immolation happens again, those involved will be severely punished. According to sources from the region, Chinese authorities have tightened security measures in a Tibetan-populated county in China’s northwestern Qinghai province in the wake of the latest self-immolation protest by a Tibetan challenging Beijing’s rule, a local resident says. Tsering Gyal, a 20-year-old Buddhist monk, set himself ablaze on Nov. 11 in Pema (in Chinese, Banma) county in the Golog (Guoluo) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. He died the next day after calling for freedom for Tibetans and an end to Chinese rule, sources said. Now, armed police are stopping and searching Tibetan-operated vehicles on major roads leading to and from the county, RFA reported on Thursday, Nov. 21. “Groups of 15 Chinese armed paramilitary police are stationed at every turn of the road in the county, and are thoroughly searching Tibetan travelers,” RFA’s source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The police at one checkpoint then contact police at the next checkpoint to let them know the
Tibetans are coming their way, in order to ‘hand them over,’” the source said, adding that Internet service to the area has now been disconnected and local Tibetans are being restricted in their movements, with some searched at gunpoint. Though many Tibetans had wanted to visit Gyal’s family home to offer their condolences following his fatal protest, Chinese authorities “did not allow” this, he said. Gyal died en route to a hospital in Qinghai’s capital city Xining after a local county hospital found it was unable to treat him, a local source said. “Before he died, he stated that he was sacrificing his body for the sake of the unity of Tibetans inside and outside of Tibet, and said it was his hope that Tibetans can remain united and protect and uphold the Tibetan language,” the source said. Gyal who have set themselves on fire calling for Tibetan freedom and the return of exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, who fled into exile in 1959 following a failed national uprising against Chinese rule. The protest occurred a week after residents of Sichuan province’s Kardze (Ganzi) county in the Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and Qinghai province’s Dzatoe (Zaduo) county in the Yulshul (Yushu) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture refused orders to fly China’s national flag from their homes.
Tamdrin, a Buddhist monk from Zamthang Tsangwa Monastery. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: 21 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Sources coming out of Tibet said that a Chinese court in Ngaba County (Chinese: Aba, China’s Sichuan province), Amdho region of north-eastern Tibet has sentenced a Tibetan monk to four years and six months in prison on charges of his alleged role in leading traditional funeral prayer services self-immolator and spread the message about Tibetan independence to split the nation. “On October 29, an Intermediate People’s Court in Ngaba County has sentenced Shal-ngo Hortsang Tamdrin, a Tibetan monk to four years and six months in jail and deprived of his political rights for two years for allegedly leading a public prayers
New documentary on a former political prisoner of Tibet
TCHRD director Tsering Tsomo and Lhamo Kyab during their press conference held in Dharamshala on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo By Yeshe Choesang: 20 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Based in Dharamshala, India, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) said “it is pleased to announce the release of a new documentary movie titled A Sacrifice, shot and directed by Theo Hessing, a filmmaker based in London, UK.” During her press conference held in Dharamshala on Wednesday, Nov. 20, TCHRD director Tsering Tsomo said that “the 26-minute long film depicts the life of Lhamo Kyab, a former political prisoner and now a
China arrests seven Tibetans over self-immolation protest By Jane Cook: 21 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Chinese authorities have detained seven Tibetans, including three monks, as they stepped up a security crackdown following the latest self-immolation protest. According to souces, the seven were accused of being involved in the Nov.11 self-immolation of Tsering Gyal, a 20-year-old monk from the Akyong monastery in Pema county. Three of those detained were from Akyong monastery, where Gyal burned himself calling for freedom for Tibetans and an end to Chinese rule. “Five monks from Akyong Monastery- Trulku Thupwang, a respected Lama and his younger brother Lokyab, Ngawang, Gaden, and Buddha Kyab, in charge of discipline in the monastery were arrested,” sources told The Tibet Post International. Sources also stated that “three laymen from Chokriyultso village-Tsewang, Bhumkyab and Janpo also arrested. Their whereabouts, the charges against them, and their condition remain unknown.” Several other monks from the monastery have also been questioned. Gyal’s selfimmolation had led to a security crackdown in Pema county where, groups of 15 Chinese armed paramilitary police are stationed at every turn of the road in the county, and thoroughly searching Tibetan travelers.
By Yeshe Choesang: 21 November 2013
Brussels: - Henri Malosse, EES President, received Dicki Chhoyang, Kalon or minister of the Central Tibetan Administration, on 26 November 2013. Both expressed their deep concerns on violations of Human rights in the Tibet region. They stressed the necessity of reopening the Dialogue between the Chinese government and the Tibetan people, represented by the Central Tibetan Administration. They also appealed for the real support of the European institutions in this conflict that has lasted too long. Ms Chhoyang also met with EESC members Anne-Marie Sigmund, Béatrice Ouin and Thomas Janson.
Henri Malosse, EES President, with Kalon Dicki Chhoyang. Photo: TPI
German MP expresses concern over Tibet’s deteriorating situation By Yeshe Choesang: 21 November 2013
Dharamshala: - As a sign of their support, the TibetGroup in German Parliament expressed concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet and urged the leaders of the free world to stand for Human rights and human dignity. “During the fourth leg of stop at Berlin on 13th Nov. The Delegation led by speaker of The Tibetan Parliament in-Exile (TPIE) met Tibet-Group in German Parliament Chair Sabine shared concerns over the deteriorating situation inside Tibet and the need for the International community in large and the leaders of the free world to stand for Human rights and human dignity,” the TPIE said in a statement. The statement added: “The chair reiterated her continues support for Tibet and later the delegation had a guided tour around the German Parliament.” During the tour to the Stasi Memorial, it said the” delegation met both the Director and vice Director and while answering their questions they apprised them about the current China’s repressive policies against Tibetans which is driving them to resort to self-immolations.” This memorial recalls the degree of terror and repression that the inmate faced under State Security Service in East Germany before the fall of Berlin
The Tibetan Parliamentary delegation with the President of German Parliamentary Group for Tibet in Berlin. Photo: TPI
Wall. Later they also visited the historical Holocaust and Berlin Wall memorial. According to the statement, the “Tibetan delegates also met their presence felt at the Snowlion Award Ceremony, which was organized by ICT Germany, a get-together to felicitate journalists and Chinese intellectuals with their supporters.” At the end of their stay on 17th Nov, Sunday the they addressed the Tibetan Communities in Munich and Berlin along with Tibet Initiative in Germany in ‘ The House of Democracy and Human Rights’. The speaker Penpa Tsering encouraged the youth wing of Tibet Initiative to innovate new means to energies their movement. Soon after the meeting they left for London on 17th Nov.
Tibetan MPs delegation visits Netherlands, meets supporters
TPiE delegates with Tibet supporters during their visit to Netherlands. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: 15 November 2013
Amsterdam, November 14, 2013: - On conclusion of the French leg of the visit, the Tibetan Parliamentary delegation led by the speaker Mr. Penpa Tsering left to Holland on the 8th of November. Between 8th to 12th Nov. the delegation met with the Netherlands based Tibet supporters, ICT Europe high donors, members of the Human rights section of the Dutch Foreign Ministry, Asia Division of the Dutch Amnesty International, the Chairman and members of the Dutch
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Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee and the Netherlands Tibetan community. Some members of the delegations were interviewed by the national news media and their interviews were reported in various television and news media. The delegation urged the foreign ministry to raise the issue of Tibet during the forthcoming visit of the Dutch Prime Minister to China. The Foreign Ministry and the Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee expressed their concern and anguish over the prevailing crisis in Tibet in relation to escalating cases of self immolations. They also expressed their support for the mutually beneficial Middle Way Approach to the long standing issue of Tibet. This parliamentary delegation is supported byICTand the programs were devised in collaboration with the respective Offices of Tibet. On completion of the Dutch leg of the advocacy, the delegation left to the capital of Germany, Berlin on 13th November. Report filed by the Secretariat of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile.
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TPI NEWS
Understanding emptiness through wisdom eliminates disturbing emotions
emotional response he replied that he doubted it, but it remains to be seen. He was also asked if a better future could be created without resort to violence. His Holiness replied that we need to counter negative emotions through education. On the 17 November His Holiness arrived at the Shingon school of Japanese Buddhism for a dialogue about Buddhist and scientific approaches to reality. He said that his dialogue with scientists over the last 30 years had been mutually beneficial. Science and spirituality deal with knowledge of the material world and the inner world of the mind. The Buddha’s advice, he said, was not to accept everything at face value, but examine and investigate it. This contains a healthy scepticism in connection with a scientific approach. His Holiness highlighted the practical nature of Buddha’s teaching, who himself was an ordinary man but through intense training became enlightened. From a Buddhist point of view, he added, understanding emptiness is important because through this wisdom
we eliminate our disturbing emotions. The Buddhist approach is to use our intelligence to the maximum and this he said was the reason for his eagerness to engage in discussion with scientists. His Holiness remarked that Buddhist’s distinguish inanimate living things from sentient beings and a sentient being could be defined as something that can move voluntarily. He revealed that two volumes of Buddhist science material have been compiled and will be published shortly. He remarked that the best scientists are intelligent, open-minded and receptive and they accept nothing until it can be proved by experiment and reason. His Holiness summarized that Buddhism not only has no concept of a creator or an existent self and its basic philosophical view is that all things are interdependent. On his final day His Holiness arrived at Yakumo Academy to talk to 950 schoolgirls. He likened himself to the students saying that he thought of himself as just another human being, hysically, mentally and emotionally. He also noted that he was from the 20th century whereas the girls were from the 21st. Adding that we cannot change the past and must learn from it to shape the future. He said the important thing now was to ensure that the 21st century becomes an era of peace and non-violence. He also noted that our attitude to war has completely changed and urged them to look at how nations had re-built themselves after periods of war. He said that human beings are becoming more mature and their desire for peace is very strong. Children, he added, who grow up in an affectionate family, grow up happy and healthy. Kind responses suggest that human nature is essentially compassionate and as social animals we naturally show each other affection. Questions were asked by some of the girls and then His Holiness was thanked for talking to them and back at his hotel he was interviewed in connection with a film focussing on the life of the Buddha.
in the sixth century B.C., and this sheds light on a very long debate,” Coningham said. According to CNN report, The Lumbini site in Nepal is one of four principal locations that are believed to be connected with the Buddha’s life. Bodh Gaya is where he is became enlightened, Sarnath is where he first preached and Kusinagara is where he died. Lumbini is located in “a subtropical chain of forests, marshes and grasslands” between Nepal’s border with India and the Siwalik Range of the Himalayas, according to the study. Historical documents from Chinese travelers show that pilgrims made the journey to Lumbini for many centuries. The site was lost and stopped attracting pilgrims after the 15th century -- no one knows why -- but Lumbini was rediscovered in 1896. It was declared the birthplace of Buddha because of a sandstone pillar there, dating from the third century B.C. The pillar’s inscription states that Emperor Ashoka visited this site of Buddha’s birth. Scholars say the more modern Maya Devi Temple at Lumbini, named after the mother of Buddha, was constructed on top of the foundations of more than one earlier temple or stupa, which is a dome-shaped Buddhist monument. One of those older temples dates back to the third century B.C., from the time of Emperor Ashoka. But there’s also evidence of the even earlier temple, which appears to have covered about the same size and shape as the Ashokan temple, Coningham said. Beneath remains of the Ashokan temple, archaeologists found a series of postholes from where timber posts had rotted out. “Indeed, our excavations have demonstrated that the earliest construction at Lumbini appears to have comprised a timber fence or railing marking a cardinal
direction,” the study authors wrote. The central, open portion of the most ancient temple appears to have housed a tree, based on the discovery of large fragments of mineralized tree roots. This part of the temple also had never been covered by a roof. To establish the dates of the earliest Buddhist shrine at Lumbini, Coningham and colleagues analyzed charcoal found within postholes, as well as sand. Different techniques used on each of these materials pointed to the same conclusion of the sixth century B.C., but the postholes indicated a range of about 800 to 545 B.C. “If the postholes at Lumbini are indicative of a tree shrine, ritual activity could have commenced either during or shortly after the life of the Buddha,” the study authors wrote. Julia Shaw, archaeologist at University College London, applauded the research but noted in an e-mail that other ritual frameworks existed at the same time as early Buddhism, which could complicate the conclusions of the study. “It would be difficult to determine whether the tree shrine in question was intended for the worship of the Buddha or was part of a distinct cultic context,” she said. But Coningham said that it’s unlikely that this earlier structure belonged to a different spiritual tradition, other than Buddhism, because of the “continuity” of the site between the sixth century B.C. and third century B.C. structures. The Ashokan temple is clearly Buddhist, and the earlier shrine had the same footprint. “Often when you have sites of one religious activity overtaken by another, you actually get quite dramatic changes within orientation, within use of structure,” Coningham said. Moreover, before the sixth century B.C., the area where the site is was just cultivated land, he said. The new archaeological research on the Buddha’s life will be featured in a National Geographic documentary called “Buried Secrets of the Buddha” premiering in February. The National Geographic Society partly funded the research. Buddha was born as Siddhartha Gautama, in the gardens of Lumbini in Nepal. His parents were wealthy. At age 29, he renounced his family and became a seeker, Coningham said. According to tradition, Buddha found truth when he sat down under a tree, which is now called the Bo tree. The Buddha happened to be born during a period of dramatic change, Coningham said. Coins were introduced, urbanization was occurring and a merchant class emerged. When the Buddha died at age 80, he recommended that all Buddhists visit Lumbini, study authors said. Today, more than a million pilgrims visit Lumbini each year. The new research, in uncovering layers of history, adds new dimensions of interest to the site.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Yakumo Academy, a girls’ school in Tokyo, Japan on November 18, 2013. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL By Jane Cook: 22 November 2013
Tokyo, Japan 16, 17 & 18 November 2013:- The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness started his tour of Japan at Chiba Institute of Technology before an audience of 600 teachers and students. He was initially asked what he thought were the potential benefits of science and technology from a Buddhist point of view. He spoke about the ways technology has changed our lives, making them easier but busier. For a Buddhist he said we spend too much time involved with sensory activities and this distracts from our special human faculty: intelligence, and he warned that science and technology can be used positively or negatively depending on our motivation. His Holiness had opened a dialogue with scientists back in the 70’s, focusing on cosmology, neurobiology, physics and psychology that resulted in the ‘Life and Mind Institute’ which is now 27 years old. Asked if he thought a robot could ever emulate
Oldest Buddhist shrine’ found in Lumbini - Buddha’s Birthplace
By Jane Cook: 22 November 2013
Dharamshala: - Archaeologists in Nepal digging at Buddha’s birthplace say they have found remains of the oldest ever Buddhist shrine. According to media reports, the Archaeologists have discovered traces of a wooden structure dating from the sixth century B.C. that they believe is the world’s oldest Buddhist shrine. Kosh Prasad Acharya, who teamed with archeologists from Britain’s Durham University, said Tuesday, Nov. 26 that the structure was unearthed inside the sacred Mayadevi Temple in Lumbini. Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, is generally thought to have been born in about the sixth century B.C. at the temple site. Kosh Prasad said the traces were tested using radiocarbon and luminescence techniques, which found they dated from the sixth century B.C. The archaeological team dug underneath previously known brick structures inside the temple, and experts from Scotland’s University of Sterling examined and collected the samples, he added. Followers believe Siddhartha, a prince, left his family and kingdom and meditated in the jungles of Nepal and India before achieving enlightenment. “This is one of those rare occasions when belief, tradition, archaeology and science actually come together,” lead study author Robin Coningham, professor at Durham University in the United Kingdom, said at a press briefing Monday, Nov. 25. If this study is correct, the Buddha’s actual life could have overlapped with a popularly recognized time frame of 563-483 B.C. But lots of other date ranges for the Buddha have been tossed around -- some scholars say 448 to 368 B.C., for instance. (The UNESCO website about his birthplace says 623 B.C.) “We know the entirety of the shrine sequence started
5 Warm-heartedness is the basis for moral integrity: His Holiness
H.H the Dalai lama
31 November 2013
By Jane Cook : 20 November 2013
Tokyo, Japan 19 November 2013: - A short drive through Tokyo’s busy streets brought His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet to the Zojoji Temple Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2013. This grand institution belongs to the Jodo shu, one of the Pure Land traditions of Japanese Buddhism, dedicated to the singleminded recitation of the Nembutsu, a prayer to Amitabha Buddha. A Zojoji Temple has stood on this site for more than 500 years, but was badly damaged during the last war. The Daiden (Hondo), that His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited was rebuilt, combining ancient and modern traditions, in 1974. He was received at the steps to the temple by the Chief Abbot Yagi and escorted inside to a seat from which he could observe the prayers led by the Abbot to poignant a musical accompaniment. According to the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama (OHHDL), His Holiness was invited on this occasion at the behest of ‘Live On’ a non-profit organisation begun by Terumi Okaku to help prevent suicide and support children, who have lost parents as a result of disease, disaster, suicide, terrorism and war, through the grieving process. She explained that she was inspired to do this by her own experience of grief after her mother took her own life and she lost a brother in an accident. Her goal is to help people find hope as a way out of grief. “I am very happy to be here in this magnificent temple, where monks have just performed prayers to Amitabha,” His Holiness began when it came to his turn to speak. “And I am impressed by the experiences of Ms Okaku, who works so hard to relieve the bereaved of their grief and depression. Working to allay the suffering of others on the basis of your own experience is particularly effective. I am reminded of the well-known verse of dedication: May the supreme and precious awakening mind Arise where it has not yet arisen. And where it has declined or does not exist, May it flourish and keep growing. “It is clear that the greater your sense of altruism, the more you work for the welfare of others, the greater will be your own satisfaction. And when you come to die you’ll be able to go with confidence. As you dedicate yourself to working for others, your own interests will incidentally be fulfilled. Selfishness and self-centredness, on the other hand, lead to anxiety and suspicion, poor health and a decline in well-being.” He commented that all the major religious traditions talk about love and compassion, although they differ in their philosophical approach because of the differences of time and place in which they arose. In Buddhist literature there is no mention of a pure and eternal god, nor of an intrinsically existent self. Everything is described as existing in dependence on other factors. Although the Buddha had spoken about suffering when he taught the Four Noble Truths, that is no grounds for feeling depressed. Rather we should examine what gives rise to suffering and take on the challenge of overcoming it. He said that helping others who suffer to cope and overcome their grief as Ms Okaku had earlier described is a great gift of kindness. His Holiness clarified that we experience two levels of pain, physical and mental, and that while physical pain tends to have a physical cause, mental suffering usually derives from our own way of thinking. For this the 8th century Indian master, Shantideva, offers practical advice: Why be unhappy about something If it can be remedied? And what is the use of being unhappy about something If it cannot be remedied? Among the prepared questions was one that asked whether in the context of non-violence it is acceptable to fight back in the face of danger. His Holiness replied: “Try to take the short and long-term benefit into account. But also keep in mind that
His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Zojoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan on November 19, 2013. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL
the difference between non-violence and violence is not necessarily in the quality of the action you take, but in the motivation with which you do it. Seeking to deceive others with sweet words out of a selfish motivation is a form of violence, whereas forceful action with an altruistic motivation is non-violent.” This prompted another questioner to ask about the self-immolations that have recently taken place in Tibet. His Holiness recalled that during the Cultural Revolution a Chinese Abbot had taken such action to protect his monastery and other monks had protested similarly against the Vietnam War. He pointed out that, very sad as such events have been, people with such courage could have sought to harm others and deliberately avoided doing so. When he invited questions from the public, a young man wanted to know the proper attitude for falling in love. His Holiness told him he had no experience, but reflected that while physical beauty is good, inner beauty is much more important to the creation of a lasting relationship with someone. “When you find a potential partner,” he added, “don’t be in a hurry to settle down, get to know each other first.” To an enquiry about developing moral integrity, His Holiness replied that the world over, modern education is aimed at material progress and development. However, we all receive the seed of affection and respect for others when our mothers shower affection on us as infants. What we have to do is cultivate that seed because affection and warm-heartedness are the foundation of moral integrity. Scientific findings bear out the positive consequences of fostering such values. His Holiness cautioned that just as it is much harder to cure cancer when it is fully developed, if we wish to effect change through education we need to start training children early. Someone asked His Holiness the Dalai Lama what is the most important point if we want to help each other and he answered simply: “Love and compassion.” To a question about emptiness he said: “To understand what ‘form is emptiness, emptiness is form’ means, you have to know that it doesn’t mean that form does not exist. Rather it is not intrinsically existent; it depends on and is designated on other factors. Nagarjuna declared that the instruction about dependent origination is the treasure of the Buddha’s teaching. The purpose of the teaching of emptiness is to undermine our tendency to reify things, which gives rise to anger and attachment, which leads to suffering.” In the afternoon, His Holiness opened a meeting with Japanese scholars of Tibetan studies by telling them that depending on where people are in the world and what the natural environment is like, different kinds of culture come about. By some accounts there have been Tibetans in Tibet for 3040,000 years. They were mostly nomads, who, if they had a good horse and a sword, would roam at will and if they came up against opposition would crush it. But with the coming of Buddhism, Tibetans became gentler and more peaceful. He said: “Usually I describe Tibetan culture as a culture of non-violence, a culture of peace, ultimately derived from compassion. Although we eat meat, we respect all forms of life. Such values, in the light of the violence we see in the world today are worth preserving. I want to express my appreciation to you for the interest you take in Tibetan affairs.”
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TPI NEWS
31 November 2013
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International 7 TPI NEWS The situation on the ground in Spanish court orders arrest of ex-Chinese dictators over Tibet Tibet isn’t getting better: Sikyong 31 November 2013
The Tibet Post International
By Yeshe Choesang : 20 November 2013
Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay meeting with top officials of the autonomous provinces of South Tyrol and Trento in northern Italy. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: 21 October 2013
Dharamshala: - ‘The situation on the ground in Tibet wasn’t getting,’ Dr. Lobsang Sangay, Sikyong or political leader of Tibetans said, adding that the autonomous status enjoyed by the people of the provinces in Italy is possible for Tibet. During his two-day visit to autonomous provinces of South Tyrol and Trento in northern Italy, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay, the political leader of the Tibetan people met with top officials, including President Luis Durnwalder of South Tyrol. Top officials of the autonomous provinces of South Tyrol and Trento in northern Italy expressed strong support and solidarity for the Tibetan struggle for freedom. During meeting with President Luis Durnwalder of South Tyrol on Monday, 19 November,2013, he told the Tibetan political leader that “he was very happy of his 25 years association with Tibetans.” Dr. Lobsang said he was visiting long time friends in the autonomous provinces of South Tyrol and Trento in northern Italy. “The two provinces enjoy legal autonomous status within the political structure of the Italian Republic,” he said. Sikyong also met with Dr. Arno Kompatscher, the President designate of South Tyrol and briefed him about ‘the present situation in Tibet and also thanked him for the long friendship and support to the Tibetan people.’ Dr. Kompatscher pledged his continued support. He said “he first met His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a student in 1997 and more recently during His Holiness’ visit to Bolzano in April 2013.” In the evening, the Tibetan political leader drove to Trento, the capital of Trentino autonomous province. He met with Mrs. Sara Ferrari, newly appointed Commissioner for International Solidarity of the Province of Trento and Mr. Bruno Doringatti, President of the Provincial Council of Trento. Dr. Sangay briefed Mrs. Sara Ferrari about the Telemedicine and drinking water projects financed by the Trento provincial government. He said that he had visited both the project areas in India. The telemedicine connection was inaugurated between the Tibetan settlement in Mainpat and Telerad RXDX in Whitefield, Bangalore in late May 2013. Tibetans living in Ladakh are benefiting from the drinking water project. During his meetings in Bolzano and Trento, Dr. Sangay said, “We are advocating to resolve the Tibetan issue through nonviolence and dialogue based on the Middle Way Approach.” Dr. Sangay said that “the Tibetans are seeking genuine autonomy. The freedom enjoyed by the people of the autonomous region of Bolzano and Trento shows that autonomous status for the Tibetans within the framework of the People’s Republic of China is possible.” In responding to questions about the situation in Tibet, Dr. Sangay said that “the situation on the ground in Tibet wasn’t getting better. He said 122 Tibetans had self-immolated in Tibet, demonstrations against mining and dam construction continue in Tibet.”
“I am very concerned about the present situation in Tibet, as we continue to hear very sad news from Tibet,” said Mr. Bruno Doringatti, the President of the Provincial Council of Trento. “I wish to strengthen our relationship between Trento and the Tibetan people.” Sikyong also had a brief meeting with Mr. Bruno Dorin, President of the Provincial Council of Trento and Mr Roberto Pinter, former parliametrain and also a long-time supporter of the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination. “Sikyong had a successful visit to the autonomous provinces of Italy to further strengthen our friendships between the people of the two Italian provinces and Tibet,” Tenzin Khando, a Tibetan currently living in Trento told The Tibet Post International. The Tibetan Community in Italy’s President M r. N y i m a D h o n d u p a n d c o m m u n i t y members welcome their political leader on his arrival in Bolzano. Sikyong also met with Researcher at the European Academy, Bolzano - Institute for Minority Rights and the Institute for Studies on Federalism and Regionalism in Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy.
Dharamshala: - Spain’s National Court on Tuesday, Nov. 19 issued international arrest warrant for former Chinese dictator Jiang Zemin and four other top officials as part of a probe into alleged genocide by China against Tibetans in Tibet. Tibetan rights groups brought the case against Jiang, former prime minister Li Peng and three other Chinese officials, alleging they were responsible for “genocide, crimes against humanity, torture and terrorism” against Tibetans in the 1980s and 1990s. Spain’s National Court issued the arrest warrant under the doctrine of universal jurisdiction, which allows its courts to try certain cases of human rights abuses committed in other countries. The court said it accepted arguments from Spanish pro-Tibet rights groups that international reports indicate the five may have had a role in the alleged genocide and should be questioned. The three other defendants are China’s former state security chief Qiao Shi; the Communist Party’s leader in Tibet at the time, Chen Kuiyan; and Peng Pelyun, minister for family planning in the 1980s. The Court wrote in a ruling released on Tuesday that there were “indications of participation” by the accused in the alleged crimes “given the political or military responsibility” they held at the time. Former Chinese president Hu Jintao is also under investigation although his arrest has not been sought. When he was named in the probe, China’s Foreign Ministry said the Tibet issue was a Chinese matter, adding that it hoped Spain would handle this issue properly. Spain’s legal system recognizes the universal justice
The envoys of His Holiness the Dalai lama have held nine rounds of talks with China and the last round of talks was held in 2010, since then there has been no dialogue between the two parties. Dr Sangay said, “The Central Tibetan Administration is ready take the middle way on the Tibet issue and we are ready to engage in any meaningful dialogue with China anywhere and at any time.” Sikyong said, “We have already presented a memorandum to Beijing, seeking autonomy for Tibet as enshrined in the constitution of China.” Dr Sangay regretted that 122 Tibetans had committed immolation for their cause and many of them had died. Sangay termed the immolation in China as unfortunate. Sikyong said, “These incidents have reflected the determination of the people of Tibet against the repressive policies of China. Repressive policies and political pressure of China is forcing Tibetans outside or inside Tibet for immolation.” Sangay also expressed concern over the “degradation” of environment in the China-controlled Tibet Autonomous Region, (TAR). Later, delivering a special lecture on “Democracy-in-Exile: the case of Tibet” at Himachal Pradesh University, Sangay urged the university fraternity to study the 1914 Shimla agreement signed between Tibet and British-ruled India in which the mention of McMahon line has been made. In his candid speech, Sangay underlined the need for understanding the Tibetan struggle for total freedom and called upon the professors, research scholars and students, especially historians, to study the 1914 agreement as this envisages the importance of Tibet and its sovereign existence as a nation and having McMahon
principle, under which genocide suspects can be put on trial outside their home country. On those grounds the court said it “considered it necessary to approve the issuing of international arrest warrants” against the five. Alan Cantos, president of Spain’s Tibet Support Committee, which first pressed for the probe in 2008, expressed satisfaction with the court decision but was not overly optimistic that anyone would be brought to trial. The court must process the arrest orders via Interpol.
“It’s not easy, but it’s a big step,” Cantos told The Associated Press. “They are stuck in their own country and a competent court is pointing the finger at them. It’s so they don’t have it too easy.” The Spanish court has also agreed to investigate a charge of repression in Tibet brought against China’s most recent ex-president Hu Jintao, who left office last year. The communist regime has previously described the investigation as interference in its affairs and called the claims “sheer fabrication.”
His Holiness not to shift base Lets build a more peaceful world for the 7 billion...... continued from Front-Page...... is to the promotion of religious harmony, and that he from Himachal Pradesh...... continued from Front-Page......
He said after relinquishing his political duties, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s religious engagements have increased, and therefore he had been spending more time outside the state, especially in South India. Speculations of His Holines shifting his base to a Tibetan settlement in South India had created flutter in McLeodganj town, which contributes to the tourism industry of the region in a big way, Times of India reported. Each year thousands of his followers from different parts of the globe travel to McLeodganj to seek his blessings and attend his teachings.
CTA hopeful of fresh dialogue with China: Sikyong...... continued from Front-Page......
Spain’s National Court issued international arrest warrant for the former Chinese dictator Jiang Zemin and four other top officials as part of a probe into alleged genocide by China against Tibetans in Tibet. Photo: Media File
line as the international border. “Tibet is very vital in terms of democracy which is like the Indian democratic set-up: parliament, judiciary, civil administration functioning in unison to deliver justice,” he said lauding the Tibetans for being lawabiding citizens throughout their lives. Later, vice-chancellor of the Himachal Pradesh University A. D. N. Bajpai welcomed Dr Sangay, the political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration based in Dharamshala, India.
His Holiness voiced the firm hope that the 21st century would be a century of peace. He conceded that there would continue to be problems as the world’s population continues to grow, as the effects of climate change become more drastic, and as natural disasters multiply. But such problems have to be faced together. He said that the Copenhagen summit on climate change had been disappointing because too many governments chose national interests over the interests of the whole world. Such problems will only be surmounted by talk; we have to engage in dialogue. This is why His Holiness is encouraging young people to think of making the 21st century a century of dialogue. “Japan is one of the most fully modernised nations, it is one of the leading countries in Asia and it’s a country whose religious traditions place great value on peace. I hope you’ll join me in the wish to build a more peaceful world, which is why wherever I go I try to promote the idea that we 7 billion human beings belong to one human family.” “As you can see, I’m a Buddhist monk and it pains me when conflicts appear to be stoked by religious differences. This is what seems to be happening between Buddhists and Muslims in Burma. It’s very sad. I have appealed to the Buddhist monks there, when conflict flares up, to remember the face of the Buddha. I am convinced that if the Buddha were there he would offer protection to those Muslims who find themselves under threat.” His Holiness explained that his second commitment
Kirti Dolkar Lhamo resigns as member of Tibetan Parliament
Kirti Dolkar Lhamo. Photo: Media File By Yeshe Choesang: 28 November, 2013
Dharamshala: - Kirti Dolkar Lhamo resigned as a member of the 15th Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile after serving as an member of parliament since 1991. “In her resignation letter submitted to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, she has cited personal reasons for resigning from her role as a member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile,” the Tibetan Parliamentary secretariat said. “She has further expressed her best wishes to the Tibetan Parliament in their future endeavours, urging them to continue their hard
work and dedication to resolve the issue of Tibet for the reunification of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet,” it said. According to CTA, Dolkar Lhamo is a member of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile from Dhomay Region. She was first elected to the Tibetan Parliament in 1991. She was actively involved in local community affairs in Darjeeling. She served as the President of the Tibetan Women’s Association, Central Executive Committee (2000-2003). She was elected to the Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth and Fourteenth Parliament in exile and is presently a member of its Standing Committee.
hopes this is something Japan can also contribute to. Diverting from his theme he mentioned how important it is for Japanese students to improve their command of the English language, which is the international language, in order to better contribute to the world community. “Finally,” he said, “I’m a Tibetan, a refugee who has lived nearly 55 years in exile. During this time, many, many people have shown us sympathy and support and I appreciate it. Since we elected a political leadership in 2001 I became semi-retired and after elections in 2011 I completely retired from my political responsibilities. On top of that I also brought an end to the institution of the Dalai Lamas occupying a temporal role in Tibetan affairs. This is part of my small contribution to furthering democracy among Tibetans.” The 78-year-old Nobel Peace laureate stated that at a time when China still seems to be facing an ethical crisis, as a Tibetan he is concerned about the status of Tibetan culture, which he regards as a culture of peace. In addition to that is the issue of Tibet’s ecology. The Tibetan environment plays such an important role in the world’s climate that one Chinese ecologist referred to it as the Third Pole. This is not something that concerns only Tibetans, for the rivers that rise in Tibet affect a billion people elsewhere in Asia. “So this is an outline of concerns that I will pursue for the rest of my life,” he said. “With regard to the new Chinese leadership, many friends have told me it seems to be more practical and realistic. Premier Xi Jinping is taking a stern line against corruption and in this he seems to be a man of courage and action. The recently completed third plenum noted the needs and concerns of the rural population and poor working people, which include a judicial system functioning to international standards. The Chinese people are hard-working and realistic and it is in them that there is hope for the future. “ There was only time for His Holiness to be asked one question and that related to the self-immolations that have taken place in Tibet. He reiterated that these events are sad and observed that it is in protest against the great difficulties they face that these people are prepared to give up their lives; it’s not because they are drunk or beset by domestic problems. He said it is difficult for him to ask them to act differently because he has nothing to offer them. It’s for the Chinese authorities to investigate the situation thoroughly to establish why so many in Tibet have chosen this path. He repeated how sad it is, especially when some of those who have set fire to themselves have been young mothers of small children. Standing to leave, His Holiness’s attention was caught by the Tibetan flag standing next to his table. He said he would like to tell a story. During one of his meetings with Chairman Mao Zedong in Peking in 1954, Mao had asked him whether Tibet had a flag. When His Holiness cautiously answered that it did, Mao replied, “Good, you must fly it alongside the national flag.” This is why, today, despite hardliners in Peking asserting that the Tibetan flag is a symbol of the ‘splittists’, His Holiness feels he has Mao Zedong’s personal permission to keep and fly it.
8 TPI NEWS back page focus First of 1,000 Tibetans selected to see first Christmas in Canada History of Tibetan legal system: - Past and Present The Tibet Post International
31 November 2013
Tenzin Namgyal, a Dharamsala based lawyer. Photo: TPI By Tenzin Namgyal: 30 November 2013
Dharamshala: - To justify Tibet was once sovereign nation prior to 1959;like political control, the rule of one law over the Tibet has to be justified. The distinct Tibetan legal system advanced under the epochs of(i) the great historic king Songtsen Gampo(620-866AD) who codified the first Tibetan law code (ii) 1623 the fourth Tsang king who was keen in legal administration, codified the Tsang law code(iii) the great fifth Dalai Lama codified the Gaden Phodrang law in 1642 AD. These law codes were mainly based on the Tibetan Buddhist canon, whereas the ancient Chinese law was based on philosophy of Confucius and legalist. The territory of Tibet was governed under the one law/state law(gyal trim) by the central government i.e. Lhasa, either directly or through the concerned district officer/representative.The high court of Lhasa was the apex court of the Tibet, it adjudicated both serious crime (murder) and complex civil cases. The district officer played quasi-judicial role delegated by the central government, which had power to decide civil disputes and minor criminal cases as well. (There were around more than 120 districts). However due to various reasons, peoplechose to settle their dispute outside the legal proceeding. For e.g. Tibetan considered that the negative emotions such as greed, ignorance, angerand etc. were root cause of the conflict which would seed bad karma, entertainment of legal proceeding could open disputes in public,more expensive and time consuming. Hence, settlement outside of formal legal proceeding was common practice in Tibet. Tibetanjudge beliefs that the no two cases could be same, as the principle of precedents or stare decisis(stand by the decided case)was alien to the Tibetan legal system. The legal proceeding under both civil disputes and criminal cases were
common in practice. But the civil disputes could not be proceeds without the consent or signature of both the parties and it’s otherwise under criminal case. The burden of proof and collection of evidence or other relevant documents lies on the petitioner under civil dispute, whereas in criminal case, judge presumed guilty to the accused even before the pronouncement of judgment and it was duty of the judge or law officers to investigate and collect the evidence for the case. The concept on the jurisprudence of truth was strange, as main objective of Tibetan judge was to bring parties to agreement/settlement without the going into reality and legality of the case. When no factual consonance had been reached Oath taking and rolling of dice were two procedures used to determine the truth.The whipping of the accused during every stages of trial till admission of its crime was justified under criminal proceeding. But in civil case decision of court was subjectedto refuse or reopened at any time in future.The visit to judge’s home with gift during trial of the case was one of the contentious practices of Tibetan legal system. Although, it was meant to show respect and to determine the judge’s wisdom in furtherance to meet reconciliation but it had often prejudiced the outcome of case by the persons who were financially well off. According toTibetan legal system, the purpose of punishment was to prevent repetition of crime and to deter others to commission of crime. The criminal jurisprudence considered the crime had to be judged on the seriousness of the crime, injury sustained by the victim, the social status of the parties and etc. But the seriousness of offence and level of punishment were the discretionary power of the judge.These punishments include compensation, whipping, labor and punishment. The punishment such as gouging out the eyes, cutting Achilles tendon and cutting tongue and hands of the criminal and death penalty were later declare outlawed by the H.H, 13th Dalai Lama.However remedial under civil proceeding were mostly fines and damages, as whipping or corporal punishment was not practiced. Apart from abovementioned laws, the specific tax codified law/rule was also existed and people considered tax system as more of administrative than law. The tax was levied on the basis of various grounds such as agricultural, animals, commodities, works, occupational, income, customs duties at border and etc. The marriage pattern wasdiffering with the status of people but most common practice were polyandry and monogamy. Fornoble the marriage was contract in nature, the content of contract of will be read in front of family, relatives and friends and concluded by the signature of spouse and witnesses as well.The pattern of the divorce was same under all type of marriages. The
violation from the husband side could cost him to pay double of the value of the articles brought by the wife or violation from the wife could cost seizure of her property. The custody of the boy goes to husband and girl to wife. Soon after HH Dalai Lama and his entourage coming to exile, the draft democratic Constitution for Tibet on 10th March 1963 was promulgated which intended to secure system of democracy based on justice and equality and ensure cultural, religious and economic advancement of Tibetan. Later the Charter of Tibetan in Exile was adopted by the Tibetan Parliament in Exile on 14th June 1991 in the line with the principles of Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 1992, the Article 62 of the Charter of Tibetan in exile has established Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission which is the apex adjudicatorybody and one of the three pillars (Executive and Legislative) of the democratic system of the Central Tibetan Administration. Without abridging the law of the host nation, this commission adjudicates the civil dispute arises within the Tibetan community in exile. In conclusion, my opinion on history Tibetan legal system is that through thick and thin in the history of Tibet under the leadership of His Holiness had secured the smooth functioning of legal system. However due to geopolitical inclusiveness, which segregated the Tibet from rest of the world have caused the Tibetan legal system less reform at par with modern legal system.No matter, history of our legal system was out-of-date, but the great lies when we learn from our history and contemplate the present status of legal system in exile. Due to lack of strong relation with the mass, the mundane notion upon the judiciary body is quiet palpable among Tibetan community. Under such circumstance, concerned person must not hesitate to explore the power enshrined under the Charter and create such law/rules which are certain and flexible in redressing the grievances. The objective of law is to render justice to the aggrieved person, rather than smooth functioning of administration.The law/rules which are red tape or failed to redress the grievances of people need to be superseded/changed. At the most, the Tibetan in legal professional has a sacred duty in the advancement of legal system in exile. Hence, it is my sincere appeal to Tibetan in legal professional to set aside the indifferences and contribute ones constructive/proactive role in the pursuit of the common objective. Bodh Gyalo ! The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and does not necessarily reflects the editorial policy of The Tibet Post International. If you have any questions or concerns about the matter above, please do not hesitate to contact Mr Tenzin Namgyal, a Dharamsala based lawyer. His e-mail is tenznam@gmail.com
Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay with Additioonal Secretary of Home, Dhondup Dorje, with the first batch of Tibetans from Arunachal Pradesh immigrating to Canada. Photo: Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi
By Yeshe Choesang: 30 November 2013
Dharamshala: – The first of 1,000 displaced Tibetans selected to resettle in Canada arrived in Toronto and Ottawa on Friday, November 29. “They were greeted at both airports by private sponsors and Tibet supporters,” the Project Tibet Society told The Tibet Post International. Before Leaving India, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay advised the group to preserve the rich Tibetan moral values and appreciate the support rendered by the Government of Canada. However, Dr Sangay said that we must always feel gratitude to India. Sikyong recommended them to form a forum to connect and exchange their experiences, and should think about contributing back to the Tibetan community in the future, when settled. The Home Department of the Central Tibetan
Administration arranged a farewell session at the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi Wenesday, Nov. 27. The group departed from Delhi on 29 November 2013. They are part of a Government of Canada public policy that is facilitating the immigration of up to 1,000 Tibetans living in the state of Arunachal Pradesh in India. This policy followed a 2007 appeal by His Holiness to Prime Minister Stephen Harper. In total, there are 17 Tibetans in the first batch, who will be immigrating to Canada in two different places, namely Toronto and Ottawa. 12 of them are selected from the single category and 5 are from head of family. Others selected in the first round will arrive in Vancouver and Victoria on December 14th and in Calgary in January.
Zurich: The political leader of the exile Central Tibetan Administration in India, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, arrived in Switzerland on April 10 for a 12-day visit.
Dr Sangay was scheduled to address the Swiss Tibetan community on April 14 in Fribourg, where His Holiness the Dalai Lama was also set to give a teaching. From April 20 to 21, the Sikyong
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New book on Tibet: “Tibetan Spirit Cannot Be Crushed” launched By Yeshe Choesang: 26 November 2013
Dharamshala: Ven Bagdro, a former monk political prisoner launched his new book “Tibetan Spirit Cannot be Crushed,” explains the history and the current situation in Tibet through a series of photographs.” at a press conference in Dharamshala, India, on 1 November, 2013. The book was opened by Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, who praised Bagdro for his effort and hard work for Tibetan cause. “Ven. Bhagdro has painstakingly compiled various rare photos of Tibet over the years and published them into a book. This book will help disseminate more information about the critical situation inside Tibet, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel said. In the forward, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay said the book elucidates Tibet’s history through pictures. It gives the faculty of sight and judgment to the readers in understanding Tibet. “I hope this book and the personal account of his story will shed light on the prevailing situation in Tibet and the need for a peaceful resolution through dialogue,” Sikyong said. The new book, according to Ven. Bagdro, recounts his works and efforts in highlighting the issue of Tibet to the world. Bagdro told The Tibet Post International that he has already distributed copies of the book to all the embassies in Delhi in the couple of weeks and Tibetan schools and Indian libraries. “I am also trying to send copies to different major libraries and institutions around the world.”
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“We serve you like Royalty with warm and personalized attention” Branch Office Head Office EarthLink Tours & Travels House No. 45, Shangrila Complex, Majnu-Ka-Tilla, New Camp, New Aruna Nagar, Delhi – 110054 Tel: +91-11-64727411, 65023430 Fax: +91-11-23811267 Mobile No.: +91-9911623114, 9818542320 E-mail: info@earthlinktravels.com Website: www.earthlinktravels.com Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile Khenpo Sonam Tenphel with Ven. Bhagdro, author and former Tibetan Political Prisoner at the book launch on 1 November 2013. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo
Those images he in the book have been borrowed from various sources including the Tibetan writerTsering Woeser, The Tibet Post International and materials from the Department of Information and International Relations of the Central Tibetan Administration based in Dharamshala. Ven Bagdro’s experiences in prison have been recorded in his first book, Hell on Earth, published in 1998, has been translated into several languages. His seventh book- “Life in Exile”, which details
his extensive visits and engagement talks in different countries around the world to garner support for the Tibetan cause. He has become one of the most outspoken exprisoners in terms of World awareness on the issue of Tibet, including Chinese repressive policies in the region. Bagdro faced arrest and torture by the Chinese for leading a major demonstration in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Over twenty years later, he is still protesting against atrocities committed in Tibet.
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