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Dalai Lama’s Vision of Democracy Blossoms On 52nd Anniversary

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Vol. 02, Issue 73, 15 September 2012

“Tell All Tibetans That We Feel Guilty and We are Sorry!" Mrs Qi

A Message For The Voiceless

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Demonstration in the Capital of Finland

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Commences Teachings to Southeast Asian Devotees By: Samuel Ivor, Tibet Post International

Protesters holding pro-Tibet slogans in Helsinki, Finland.

By: Thu Flower, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: On Saturday evening of September 8, hundreds gathered around the Havis Amanda statue in Finland for a protest demonstration in support of the Tibetan cause.

The demonstration began at the center of Market Square in Helsinki, passed through Senate Square, and continued along the Parliament House. Anyone who is in either support of Tibetan independence or autonomy was encouraged to participate.

In addition, those who joined in the march also paid tribute and remembered previous Tibetans who committed self-immolations to protest Chinese oppression in their country.

Tibetan NGOs Criticised Tibetan Youth Congress

Eleven Tibetan NGOs holding a press conference in Dharamshala, India, on Spetember 6, 2012. Photo: TPI

Dharamshala: Eleven Tibetan NGOs invited Tibetan reporters to attend a press conference on September 6 at Bhagsu Hotel in Dharamsala, northern India, in response to recent alleged accusations against His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet.

The eleven NGOs claimed that accusations that His Holiness has 'withdrawn' (Tibetan: 'shirdu') the Tibetan government-in-exile had been circulated by some individual Tibetans and the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC).However, when questioned by reporters, the NGOs said they did not have any direct evidence that the TYC had made any statement to this effect, but rather that they were referring to a speech made by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The controversy has arisen against the backdrop of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile's decision to refer to itself as an 'administration'' as opposed to a government.

The eleven plaintive NGOs were: U-Tsang Cholka, Chushi Gangdruk, Dhome Cholka, Dharamshala Dhotoe Cholka, Chigdril Tsokpa, Ngari Chithun Tsokpa, Cholsum Tsokpa, Chabsi Tsondrol Tsokpa, Tsongkhang Kyiduk, Sakhang Kyiduk and Umei Lam Mimang Legulkhang.

On 7 June 2011, TYC vowed to "respect and continue to recognise and retain the name of 'Tibetan Government-in-exile'', at a press conference held at its headquarters, and issued a statement saying it was "highly critical of the 14th Tibetan Parliament-in-exile's decision to change the name of the Tibetan Government-in-exile to Organisation of the Tibetan People."

Dharamshala: At the request of a group of Southeast Asian devotees, His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet continued teachings today (September 4th) on Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life’.

Warmly greeting a vast audience of visitors from around the world, as well as local residents, His Holiness led the first of three days of teachings in the Main Temple (Tsuklakang) in Dharamshala, North India.Drawing upon a mixture of His own past experiences and wisdom, as well as Dharma teachings and the Shantideva’s guide itself, His Holiness enthralled a rapt audience with His vast knowledge, patience and humour to the gathering.

Continuing from previous teachings of the Buddhist script, His Holiness commenced from Chapter Five from Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life’. However, for the new visitors, and those unfamiliar with Buddhism itself, the Dalai Lama gave a brief, engaging introduction into Buddhism and religion itself; a masterful stroke by one the most revered spiritual leaders on earth.

His Holiness reiterated to the audience His message that: “We are all the same human beings”, urging the audience to look past the boundaries of race, religion, gender and nationality. He also addressed the need to re-examine the system of education we learn by, highlighting the need to encourage a motivation of compassion rather than greed.

Drawing upon the Buddhist scriptures, His Holiness addressed the audience for both a morning and afternoon session, discussing the chapter thoroughly to verse 58.During the teachings, His Holiness stated: “Religion can become hypocrisy when religious people say something nice, but think something different. That is hypocrisy” Adding: “Religion should be sincere”.

His Holiness also drew upon the need to develop one’s concentration, drawing upon the physical, verbal and mental powers of the individual.“As practitioners of religion, you have to show restraint, and refrain from selfish behaviour and from harming others. You have to show mindfulness and vigilance”.

In a quote directed particularly at students, His Holiness stated: “You have to show mindfulness and vigilance”, due to the nature of the mind. He re-iterated that if you are not mindful, you will forget what you have studied. He added that even if you have kept what you have studied in your mind, such learning will become defaulted.

H.H Holiness the Dalai Lama Teaches a Group of Southeast Asians at the Main Temple, Dharamshala, North India. 4th of August 2012. Photo: TPI/ Sangay

“We make a lot of mistakes because of not being alert and vigilant of what we are doing”.Amid a climate of global financial troubles, His Holiness also gave comfort and wisdom regarding family, wealth and comradeship:“I think [a] poor family maybe more trust each other, ready to share each other’s problems…With economic improvement often comes jealousy, suspicion, distrust, anger; these things are more easy to come…more education, better facilities, should help to increase these [family] values”.The inspiring teachings drew to a close during an afternoon of rain and thunder in the exile community of Dharamshala. However little could dampen the spirits of the buoyant audience as His Holiness drew the speech to a close, and the ocean of umbrellas wound their way along the narrow streets of the Tibetan community in exile.The Southeast Asian guests certainly seemed impressed, having been treated to

a typical Tibetan breakfast, tea and monetary offerings to monks and nuns of the audience. The second in the series of three teachings continue on September 5th in the main temple, for which the visitors will certainly be eagerly anticipating.

‘Tibet and Taiwan: Prospects and Challenges’

Lhasa Remains Off Limits to Natives of Tibet’s Amdo and Kham Regions Panel discussions at Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies about prospects and challenges of Tibet and Taiwain.

By: Samuel Ivor, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Celebrating the exchange of ideals and commonalities, a conference discussing ‘Tibet and Taiwan: Prospects and Challenges' was held on September 12th at the Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies.

Bridging the gap between the two cultures, and drawing carefully upon academic knowledge and first hand research, the Taiwanese visiting delegation discussed a wide range of topics; from political sovereignty, to European-Chinese See Page 4 ...

Businessmen Rescued a Truckload of Sheep

Nomads Protested Against Chinese Miners

lhasa, Photo: kailashtrek.com

By: Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: On the 29th of Lhakar ‘White Wednesday’, a group of Tibetan businessmen from Dzadu village in Kham Region purchased a truck full of sheep from Chinese business people in hope of saving the sheep lives.

Before the rescue, the sheep were arranged to be sent to various Chinese cities to be slaughtered. After the purchase, the sheep were sent to Zelkar monastery in Dzadu village, and thereafter were care for by a Tibetan villager. In return, the Zelkar monastery gave the businessmen Khadak scarves to thank them for saving the animals. By saving the animal lives, they hope for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and for a resolution to the Tibetan crisis.

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post International Mining Protests in Tibet

Dharamshala: Natives of Amdo and Kham regions of Tibet are being barred from freely travelling to the capital city of Lhasa. Radio Free Asia (RFA) in a recent report states that China has taken the step to further intensifying the crackdown, as they fear the spread of protests from Tibet's Amdo and Kham regions to Lhasa.

In addition to this, China has already taken up measures to expel Tibetans from other parts of Tibet that are not registered residents in the city.A source said, "The Chinese authorities and police are stricter on Tibetans from Amdo region." He added that, "The natives are seen as thorns in their eyes."Amdo, historically a Tibetan-populated region, is now incorporated into Qinghai province and parts of Sichuan.

After two Tibetans from Ngaba prefecture self-immolated in May, at the central square, in the heavily guarded capital city, the police and security forces started to enforce the travel ban especially for people from Amdo region.Travel is not completely off limits. Exceptions are made by the authorities, if one can produce a residence permit, a police clearance and has no record of being involved in any political activities, including demonstrations. However, the degree of restrictions varies from one region to another, but is especially enforced against monks and younger Tibetans.The report also cites that if Tibetan youth assemble in a group of three to four, they are held for questioning or harassed in other ways.

By: Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala, 31 August, 2012: Groups of Tibetan nomads from Gade County in Golog (Chinese: Guolo) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture carried out a protest against Chinese miners to protect the local sacred mountain called Dringye Ngo Sorma.

On 10 August, 2012, Chinese gold miners arrived at a valley located next to the mountain in Tsangkor Village of Gade County and proceeded to set up their camp in the area.

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The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

English Version of "Iron Hare 2011" Reaches Daylight

EXILE & TIBET

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

Persecuted Chinese Author Liao Yiwu Visited the 17th Karmapa

By Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay and Dr. Chenrap present English version of the book. Photo: TPI/Ruta Vilkaite.

By Ruta Vilkaite, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: The 12th of September marked the book's "Iron Hare 2011-Flames of Resistance" publication in English language.

The book in its original Tibetan language was published on 16th March 2012. Half a year later, English version of the book, translated by Matthew Akester, reached the light to uncover sheer facts of last year's self-immolations within and outside of Tibet. The book's translation into one of the world's most spoken language enables to spread awareness about the grim situation in Tibet under communist Chinese rule to a?wider audiences.

The Dhomay Exile Solidarity Alliance has compiled this chronicle to record Tibet's heroes and heroines actions so those who gave up their lives for the cause of Tibet's religious and political integrity will not be forgotten.

"Iron Hare2011-Flames of Resistance" contains of more than 440 pages which are divided into four sections- Chronicle of the Iron Hare year fire protests; Self immolation protest in exile; International statements of support for Tibet; and Solidarity initiatives by exile Tibetan Community organizations. The book also includes photos of self-immolators and international supporters, detailed accounts and published articles on the issue.

The first self immolation act in Tibet's history occurred in 1998 when Thubten Ngodrup set himself on fire during a hunger strike in Delhi organised by the TYC. Around 11 years later, another Tibetan took the same action in protest against Chinese rule.

In 2011 alone, more than 22 self-immolations acts occurred in China's occupied Tibet while today numbers increased up to 52.

The event was marked by Tibet's Prime Minister

Lobsang Sangay's, other parliament members and the Dhomay Exile Solidarity Alliance members' presence and speeches.

Dr. Chenrap, associate of The Dhomay Exile Solidarity Alliance, gave the main reasons for publishing this book in English. He said, that it is very important to keep the records of today's' events and to prove the number of self-immolations as one day it will be history and the book could be useful in research. "It reflects the reality of many Tibetan and therefore we would like to show solidarity to Tibet's heroes and heroines, their family members, other relatives and friends", said Dr. Chenrap.

He also spoke of the future of the book. "Due to the lack of time, it was unsuccessful to include selfimmolations that occurred after the book's publishing. However, The Dhomay Exile Solidarity Alliance is gathering information on the latest nonviolent protest actions in order to publish a second book that would include all of the self-immolations.

Other speaker at the event, Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay, remembered his presence at the launch of the first book and said that the team working on this project put lots of effort in gathering latest information. "Kashag (Cabinet of Tibetan Administration) believes the book to be very important and therefore I am here in the launch of this book".

Lobsang Sangay said that the translation will help to receive international attention and support to the issue. Tibetans in exile know all about the incidents that occur in Tibet and the book would spread the news to international audiences as well as educating them about the current issue. "Most importantly, this book shows support and acknowledgment to self-immolators and their families' members".

Tibet’s Activists Meet China’s Defense Minister with Burning Chinese Flag

Tibet’s flag is raised by activists in Delhi on the arrival of China’s Defense Minister, Liang Guanglie.

By Ruta Vilkaite, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: As part of the pledge to intensify global actions on the on-going wave of selfimmolations, Tibetan activists (Students for a Free Tibet, India & Regional Tibetan Youth Congress) have launched a protest for the arrival of the China's Defense Minister, Liang Guanglie and commander of the Tibet's military district, Yang Jinshan.

On early morning of the 5th of September, crowd gathered in front of the Chinese Embassy in Delhi where they unfurled charts reading ‘51 Selfimmolated: Tibetans are dying for Freedom' and ‘Tibet's Independence, India's Security' followed by burning of the China's national flag.

"As the world's largest democracy with history of struggle based on Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violence and non-cooperation, India has a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with the Tibetan people's nonviolent struggle for freedom," said Dorjee Tsetan, National Director of Students for a Free Tibet, India. "Now is a critical time for India to add her voice to the multilateral pressure on China to stop the crackdown in Tibet. Tibet's resolution can only bring a true solution to the current Sino-India matter."

With recent two self-immolations of 18 years old monk Lobsang Kelsang from Kirti Monastery, and

Dharamshala: Distinguished Chinese author and poet Liao Yiwu, who is persecuted for his critics of China's Communist regime, was scheduled to meet with the 17th Karmapa in Dharamshala, North India in an effort to arrange the exiled leader's visit to Germany.

The meeting took place on Saturday morning of September 8 in Gyuto Monastery, with the purpose of discussing the Karmapa's future travel plans to Berlin, one of which will likely prove to be a difficult task due to his travel restrictions. Since his fleet to India in 2000, he has only been able to set foot overseas twice, with both times being in the US. Nevertheless, the Karmapa has expressed his desire to visit Berlin and to pray for "the departed souls" who have self-immolated.

For the past several months, Liao has been persistently trying to get visitation rights for the Karmapa, stating that one of the last obstacles is the permission from New Delhi. "We are facing the last gateway: the exit permission for the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa..we are waiting to see what the Indian government is going to treat this invitation of the Berlin visit," stated Liao.

The author, who was recently awarded the 2012 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, is one of the most persecuted writers in China. After publishing his poem titled "Massacre" in 1990, he was arrested and detained for four years in prison. Thereafter Liao endured harsh punishments and torture while

The 17th Karmapa honoring Liao Yiwu with white scarf. in prison, leading him to have several psychological breakdowns and two suicide attempts.

Currently, his books are translated in several languages and sold overseas, with the most popular being "The Corpse Walker: Real-Life

Stories, China from the Bottom Up," which was prohibited in China soon after it was published.

After meeting, Liao stated that he is "very confident that the Karmapa is the new hope for Tibet."

Joint Effort to Address Oppressions in Tibet and Taiwan

By Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: On September 7, the Gu Chu Sum Movement of Tibet, in partnership with Taiwan Friends of Tibet, invited Mr Chang Yen Hsien, president of Taiwan Association of University Professors, to a press conference in Dharamshala, northern India, to discuss issues concerning the recent wave of self-immolations in Tibet, as well as future joint campaigns between the two organizations.

Held at Gu Chu Sum exhibition hall in Mcleod Ganj, the event addressed the following issues: 1. Recent acts of self-immolation in Tibet and campaign strategies regarding the situation.

2. The exchange of books relating to testimonies of political prisoners between Gu Chu Sum Movement of Tibet and Taiwan Association of University Professors.Following the 1947 massacre of thousands of Taiwanese by the Chiang Kai-shek’s army, the second longest period of martial law in history began, which in turn gave rise to a period of oppression in Taiwan known as the ‘White Terror’. As many as 140,000 people were imprisoned or killed during this era, some of whose testimonies were published by the Taiwan Association of University Professors.

17 years old Damchoe, on the 27th of August, the total number of the self sacrifices have reached 51.

Self-immolation, as a non-violent protest action against Chinese rule, has emerged as the most direct and drastic form of protest in Tibet. A staggering five decades of self-immolations have taken place since 2009. The call of freedom for Tibet and the return of the Dalai Lama have been on the lips of self-immolators and thousands of other protestors. These actions were met by the Chinese authorities with violent force- open fire on the crowds, arrests and ‘disappearances' followed by security strengthening in the selfimmolation areas.

"We call on India to join like-minded governments to immediately establish strong, public, multilateral mechanisms to hold Beijing accountable for its atrocities in Tibet," said Dorjee Tseten. "The global community cannot stand by while China commits atrocities in Tibet.

We've planned series of actions to unwelcome the visit of Liang Guanglie. " Tibet's support groups in several continents joined a Global Day of Action on September the 5th to urge Foreign Ministries to take joint action for Tibet during upcoming United Nations Human Rights Council and General Assembly meetings in September. Calls for more public and visible multi-lateral action on the situation in Tibet received a significant boost in August when US Congressmen Frank Wolf and James McGovern have sent a letter to the Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in which whey requested the US government to host an international conference on Tibet's issue, hold periodic public meetings and set up a group of like-minded governments at the UN General Assembly.

tibet-taiwan-2012-sept-7

The Taiwan association presented their collections of testimonies, and in return Gu Chu Sum Movement presented ten books about former Tibetan political prisoners.3. The exchage of national flags between Gu Chu Sum and

Taiwanese Friends of Tibet, to symbolise their mutual support for Tibetan and Taiwanese independence.The organisations also discussed collaboration on future political and cultural campaigns.

Global Press Watchdog Condemns China for Detaining Five Monks

Chinese security forces surrounding Zilkar monastery in Kyegudho, Kham region of eastern Tibet, on September 1, 2012. Photo: TPI

Paris, September 7, 2012: The Paris based international press freedom watchdog, "Reporters Without Borders" condemns the Chinese government's frequent arrests of Tibetan monks who try to inform the international community about the way they are persecuted.

In the latest case, four monks were detained in a 1 September raid by soldiers and police on Zilkar monastery in Yushu prefecture, in the eastern part of the Tibetan region, in response to the circulation of reports and photos outside Tibet. A monk who photographed the raid was also arrested.

Reporters Without Borders calls on the Chinese authorities to end their policy of imposing a news blackout on Tibet and to adhere to the international undertakings they have given to respect human rights.

The authorities continue to ignore the law in the Tibetan region and to treat Tibetans in a discriminatory

manner.The conditions in which the detained monks are being held are unknown. Reporters Without Borders is worried about the fact that they are in poor health. Two of them are reportedly paralyzed and one has a kidney ailment.The raid began at 10 a.m. on 1 September, when hundreds of police and soldiers arrived at the monastery in around 60 military vehicles and started to search the monks' rooms, seizing computers, DVDs, documents and photos.

Lobsang Jinpa, Tsultri Kalsang, Ngawang Monlam and Sonam Yignyen were arrested for allegedly distributing reports and photos of two Tibetan monks who set fire to themselves in June after five other monks were detained. Local sources said they were also accused of having photos of the exiled Dalai Lama. The fifth monk arrested for filming the raid was Sonam Sherab.

The police presence was increased around the monastery after the raid and the power supply and phone lines continued to be disconnected.

The authorities have for months been stepping up arrests and seizures of computers and IT media used for circulating information. The monk Yonten Gyatso was sentenced to seven years in prison on 18 June for disseminating information about the situation in Tibet.

Three monks from Zilkar monastery, Sonam Gewa, Lobsang Samtem and Lobsang Nyima, were given jail sentences in March for similar reason. China was ranked 174th out of 179 countries in the 2011-2012 Reporters Without Borders press freedom index and is one of the countries on the 2012 Reporters Without Borders list of "Enemies of the Internet."

TPI NEWS

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

Inspiring Teachings Continue By H. H. the Dalai Lama for Southeast Asian guests

H.H THE DALAI LAMA

The Tibet Post International

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EU to Raise Human Rights During the Upcoming EU-China Summit

By Central Tibetan Administration Media: Tibet

Buddhist monks from Singapore reciting prayers at the first day of the first day of Holiness the Dalai Lama's three day teaching requested by a group of Southeast Asia at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, on September 4, 2012. Photo: Abhishek Madhukar

By Samuel Ivor, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala, 5th September 2012: As the main temple in the Tibetan-exile community filled with an eager audience; ranging from the visiting Southeast Asian delegation, to robe-clad Buddhist monks and nuns, a sense of anticipation mixed with the plumes of incense that wafted through the rafters of the roof.

The second day of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teachings on Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life' were about to commence, and a hushed silence filled the sacred building before the arrival of the great spiritual leader for day two of the event.Opening with prayers and recitations, His Holiness gave an introduction to the awestruck audience into the fundamental teachings of the Buddha and the ‘Four Noble Truths'."All our suffering, happiness, pain and pleasure come from these conditions" His Holiness stated. "You don't willingly and happily cause suffering yourself", He said, adding that you must develop a path to aspire to reach the path to enlightenment; that you need preparation to experience emptiness to reach the path of seeing itself.

"Buddhism is about making transformations in our mind...we have to use reasoning, not just because Buddha has said so".He re-iterated the message that: "Anger harms our health. When you have love and compassion, it benefits us".

Continuing the teachings of Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life' from the previous day, verse 59 of Chapter 5, His Holiness clearly and concisely examined and explained the text, adding His wealth of experience, wisdom and warm-hearted humour.The Dalai Lama highlighted: "Our bodies should be in the service of other sentient beings...If you are selfish, you will only have suffering in this life. If you can help those who are helpless, the suffering and the sick; this will give rise to great virtue"."You should not leave these teachings in words, but put them into practice" He concluded, as chapter five drew to a close, and the audience were dismissed for a lunch break and a

period to reflect.For the afternoon teachings, His Holiness drew upon humour and past experiences, adding colour to the text regarding anger: "The moment anger arises in us, you will lose peace of mind...if you are angry all the time, it eats into your immune system". He stated, drawing upon proven scientific research into the topic."If you have peace of mind, your immune system is strengthened. Anger has no benefit whatsoever. When you become angry, immediately, it may seem anger is helping you, giving you more courage...but it is a blind, foolish courage. If you develop courage through reasoning, this is ok. [But] if you develop resentment towards those who harm you, what benefit does it have?"His Holiness then drew upon the memory of a mechanic from Norbulinka in Tibet, who became very angry while repairing a car. The mechanic became enraged, and: "he hit the car he was repairing, which made the situation worse" His Holiness chuckled, to the amusement of the audience.

Twice during the teachings, generous amounts of tea were offered to the vast crowd, who drank happily while they listened to the words of the great spiritual leader. As the afternoon continued, the clear morning skies turned to a blanket of cloud, which enveloped the temple in a thick mist. His Holiness drew the teachings to a close at the end of Chapter 6, and explained the following day's session would include a ceremony of the regeneration of Bodhisattva, and stressed the importance of the relationship between both Lama and disciple.

As His Holiness left the temple, with an audience of devoted followers and students bowed respectfully before Him, the threatening storm clouds finally let loose an outburst of monsoon rain, and a river of colourful umbrellas jostled their way skyward on the crowded streets below. Though the Southeast Asian guests were treated to a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and culture from the great Tibetan leader in exile, they were also treated to the mercy of the seasonal Indian climate too.

University of Delhi Hosting Tibetan ‘International Day of Disappearance’

Presentation slide on Gedung Choekyi Nyima, the youngest Tibetan political prisoner

By Thu Flower, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: University of Delhi organized an event for the ‘International Day of Disappearance' (1st September) to raise awareness about the conditions and continued detainment of the political prisoners inside Tibet. Many Tibetan organizations and supporters, including the Student for a Free Tibet (SFT), participated in the events by hosting series of presentations and sharing their perspectives.

With the rising of both individual and mass arrests in Tibet, the ‘International Day of Disappearance' not only serves as a reminder of those who went missing for the Tibetan cause, but also to raise awareness on current well-beings of Tibetan

political prisoners. During one instance in the program, a signature campaign was conducted for the release of Gedung Choekyi Nyima, the youngest political prisoner recognized as the 11th reincarnation of the Panchen Lama, as well as Norzin Wangmo, Rugye Adak, and Dondup Wangchen.

Furthermore, the event highlighted the repressive ‘patriotic re-education' policies of Chinese government, which many believe are attempts to force Tibetan Buddhists to denounce their practices.

The event hopes to raise awareness of Tibetan political prisoners as well as reinstating the hope and determination of the Tibetan cause.

Brussels: European Union external officials expressed their deep concern on the current situation in Tibet and promised to continue raising EU's voice over Tibet's human rights issue with China.

Mr Penpa Tsering, the Speaker of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, who is currently on a 5-day visit to Brussels and Amsterdam, met with Dr Gerhard Sabathil, Director East Asia, Pacific and Australia, of EU's European External Action Service (EEAS) at latter's office in Brussels yesterday. The Speaker was accompanied by Representative Mr Ngodup Dorjee and Secretary, Bureau du Tibet, Brussels.

During his one-hour meeting with Dr Sabathil, Mr Penpa Tsering briefed him on the current human rights situation inside Tibet, particularly on the spate of self-immolations taking place in Tibet. He also apprised him about repercussions of the repressive and discriminatory Chinese government‘s policies on political, social, economic and environmental rights of the Tibetans in Tibet.

He urged the European External Action Service to continuously engage the Chinese government to end the crisis in Tibet, which he described is increasingly volatile and depressing.

Dr Sabathil welcomed the Speaker and expressed his happiness to see him in person. He said that EEAS is keeping track of the current situation inside Tibet and had raised the issue of human rights

Tibetan Parliament Speaker Penpa Tsering (2nd left) and Representative Ngodup Dorjee (1st right) during their meeting with Dr Gerhard Sabathil of EU’s European External Action Service (2nd right) in Brussels, Belgium, on 6 September 2012/OoT Photo

violations in Tibet with the Chinese government in the past.He expressed his deep concern on the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet and promised that EEAS will continue to raise Tibet's human rights issues with China and particularly

during the upcoming EU-China summit.Mr Penpa Tsering presented to Dr Sabathil documents with updates on the current human rights situation in Tibet and thanked him for his support and considerations.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Concludes Teachings to Southeast Asian Devotees

Buddhist monks from Singapore reciting prayers at the start of the first day of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's three day teaching requested by a group from Southeast Asia at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, on September 4, 2012. Photo: Abhishek Madhkar

By Samuel Ivor, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: On the concluding day of teachings to the Southeast Asian visitors, His Holiness the Dalai Lama warmly addressed the audience to the main temple of Dharamshala, preparing the gathering for a deeper understanding into the meaning of the sacred text; Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life'.

As the morning rain receded, and the enormous crowd settled, fixing their attention to the great spiritual leader, His Holiness commenced the teachings by drawing upon the life of the Buddha Himself. The Dalai Lama began by drawing upon how the Buddha had accumulated merit and wisdom over countless aeons: "If Buddha didn't exist after His death, only serving human beings over a few decades doesn't actually become compatible to the time He spent to reach that goal".

"According to Sanskrit tradition, there are five Buddha bodies. These are not actually taught at the first sermon of the Buddha. They came in the second turning of the wheel of Dharma".

The audience were again treated to the generous hospitality of Tibetan and Buddhist spirit, as tea was served from enormous pots with elegant skill from the resident monks, and bread was distributed to the entire gathering. With grace and speed, the monks had soon attended to everyone's needs.

His Holiness explained how we fall into Samsara, and how we can get out of it: "The first teaching

of the four noble truths teaches this precisely".

"We have to know the mind which shows the true nature of things...defilements are temporary regarding the mind. In one day we go through these experiences where we see things with our eyes, and hear things with our ears; we cannot distinguish between good and bad things. This is done with thought".

Regarding the nature of the mind, and drawing upon His warm hearted wit and humour, His Holiness joked to the Southeast Asian delegation that perhaps: "While your eyes are fixed on me, your mind will be fixed on Singapore or Hong Kong".

His Holiness then spoke of the nature of the mind with inspiring depth and logic, bridging the gap between science and religion seamlessly: "I have talked with scientists about these things; sensory perceptions, looking at which part of the mind works more with sensory perceptions...there is also thought in the awakening state, the dreaming state, and the deep thought state.

Through the power of meditation, people can dissolve the states of mind".

The Dalai Lama then addressed the Tibetan laypeople of the gathering, asking those who wished to take the Bodhisattva vows to do so with His guidance. As His Holiness led the vows, Tibetan members of the audience followed their revered spiritual leader's guidance, and took the sacred oath.

The taking of the vows by the laypeople includes

a vow to refrain from alcohol, for which His Holiness drew upon His past, highlighting the story of [Kyabje] Ling Rinpoche. The Dalai Lama stated that, regarding the vows, Ling Rinpoche once spoke to an elderly Tibetan man regarding the observance and keeping of the promise. He questioned the man on his commitment to the vows; however the old man replied that he was unable to give up alcohol. Ling Rinpoche replied: "If you cannot give it up, just take a little" His Holiness said, laughing. "These five precepts are not very difficult to take are they?" He asked, as audience laughed. Afterwards, His Holiness guided the vows carefully, stating: "First get rid of non-merited actions, then get rid of self-grasping, then get rid of distorted views."

Following the vows of the laypeople, Bodhisattva vows for the entire delegation were offered.

Highlighting personal experience, the Dalai Lama confided: "I too take the vows every day, and it really helps my own mind". The White Tara permission initiation was commenced for the vows, for which His Holiness also guided and explained: "Wisdom appears in the form of a deity in Tantra.

You have to be able to see that deity in front of you. Tara is the purified state of wind energy."

Drawing upon vivid visual descriptions, His Holiness implied a focus on the body, the speech and the mind, and a need to meditate on the selflessness of the person: "Absorb you mind in emptiness, dissolve yourself into emptiness".

Having concluded the vows, and as the morning drew to a close, the Seventh Chapter of Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life' was carefully read and explained to the delegation. Before concluded the teachings, His Holiness Dalai Lama wisely cautioned: "If you are self-centred with Tantric practice, you will not fulfil your goals".

Amid an atmosphere of revered respect, His Holiness blessed and smiled to the humbled audience of bowed heads and closed palms, as He left the temple complex for the final of the three days of teachings. The continuation of Shantideva's ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life' teachings by the Dalai Lama, have certainly granted inspiring depth and wisdom into the lives of both believers and nonbelievers of the teachings. However it is the Southeast Asian guests who can certainly reflect with awe and amazement, as a light was shone onto one of the most important teachings for practicing Buddhists, by one of the most revered and respected spiritual leaders of our lifetime.

...Against Chinese Miners Over Sacred Mountain ...From front page Simultaneously, local officials held a meeting to warn the Tibetans inhabiting the areas to not interfere with the mining project, stating that it is a government project. However two days following the meeting, the miners' tents were burn down mysteriously during the night. Fortunately,

the miners have received an anonymous tip about the fire before the tents were lit and managed to escape.Four days after the tents incident, the Vice Chief of Gade County and the head of mining organization came to the village and once again urged the locals to support the miners and warned

them to not interfere with the mining. Nevertheless, the villagers continued to guard is the deity of the village, their dharma protector, as well as the god of livestock. Therefore disturbing the mountain is disrespectful to the gods, and thus, "even one handful of soil" cannot be extracted.

4

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

'Flame Of Truth" Torch for Tibet Cause Reaches in Taiwan's Capital

INTERNATIONAL

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

A Chinese NGO Apologises to Tibet and Honours Tibetan Filmmaker

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post International

Tibetans and supporters carrying the "Flame Of Truth" in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, September 3, 2012.

Photo: TPI

By The Tibet Post International

Taipei: Tibetans and supporters in Taiwanese capital Taipei Monday (September 3, 2012) began a motorcycle ride across Taiwan, as part of a global campaign to raise public awareness on the current tense situation in Tibet and to celebrate the 52nd Tibetan Democracy Day. After congregating in front of Longshan Temple in Taipei, dozens of Tibetans and their Taiwanese supporters marched from the temple along Tibet Road to Liberty Square, where the eight cross-island riders were given a 'Flame of Truth' torch and khatas - traditional Tibetan scarves made of silk presented to show hospitality or respect.

The second leg of the "Flame of Truth" global torch relay was started Sep 2, which is also observed as Tibetan democracy day, in five continents - North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa and Australia - to highlight the critical situation prevailing in Tibet. In its first leg, the freedom torch relay travelled to 48 regions in India covering more than 12 states.

Taipei Tibet Religious Foundation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama chairman, Mr Dawa Tsering, who is the head of the Central Tibetan Administration in to Taiwan urged Taiwanese people to express their strong concern over the current tragic situation inside Tibet.

"The action is aimed at raising international awareness about the ongoing tragedies in Tibet, and to urge the Chinese government to stop its repression of Tibetan people," Dawa said before the march in front of Longshan Te m p l e . H e s a i d t h a t f o l l o w i n g s e l f immolations by more than 50 Tibetans in protest against Chinese repression since

March 2009, the Tibetan parliament-in-exile adopted a resolution earlier this year asking Tibetans around the world to take action to raise awareness of the Tibetans' suffering under Chinese rule.

"Some marched, some had marathon runs and Tibetans in Taiwan chose to ride motorcycles around the island. Tibetan communities in different countries do it in different ways," Dawa said.

"We choose to begin the action today because Sept. 2 is Tibetan Democracy Day, because the Tibetan parliament-in-exile was created on this date 52 years ago."

In a statement, the Tibetans called on the international community - especially the UN to show its concern over human rights violations inside Tibet, and asked the UN to organize a special investigation team to investigate human rights conditions in Tibet.

Decorating their motorcycles with Tibetan flags, the Tibetan riders plan to make overnight stops in Hualien, Taitung, Kaohsiung and Taichung, before returning to Taipei on Thursday afternoon.

Taiwanese Students for a Free Tibet convener Fong Jyun-shan told Taipei Times that the symbolism behind marching from Tibet Road to Liberty Square was meant to show that the parade is a march toward freedom for Tibetans.

Over 50 Tibetans have reportedly set themselves on fire to protest against Chinese repressive policies since 2009 and they called for the return of Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and freedom in Tibet, before setting themselves alight.

Dharamshala: To celebrate Tibet's 52nd Democracy Day, Qi Shi Cultural Foundation, a Chinese social activist group based in Australia, held a function in tribute to imprisoned Tibetan filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen.

On September 2, the famous filmmaker was honoured with a special award for his 2008 documentary film ‘Leaving Fear Behind'.

The Amdo region native is currently serving a six year sentence following his arrest in March 2008. He was charged with "state subversion" after his documentary was smuggled abroad and distributed on the internet and at film festivals around the world.

Dhondup Wangchen along with his friend, a senior Tibetan monk, Jigme Gyatso conceived the idea for ‘Leaving Fear Behind.' They spent five months documenting interviews of 108 Tibetans discussing the political situation, all of whom agreed to have their faces shown on camera.

The 25-minute documentary shared Tibetans' views on His Holiness and the Chinese government in the year leading up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics and their hopes and frustrations living under the Chinese regime.

Dhondup Wangchen's daughter Lhamo Dolma was present at the ceremony to receive the award held at the Tibet Museum in Mcleod Ganj, India.

Kalon Dicki Chhoyang from the Department of Information and International Relations spoke at the event. She expressed her gratitude to the foundation for awarding the prize to a Tibetan and acknowledged the foundation's contribution towards human rights and justice.

Following her, Mrs Qi Jia Zhen, President of the foundation spoke. She commended Dhondup Wangchen for his courage and sacrifice."He went on to shoot and distribute the film; even though he knew the repercussions that were in store for him."To serve his sentence, Dhondup leaves behind a broken home. His wife and loving children wait day and night for his return. Mrs Qi thus, calls on the Chinese Government to immediately and unconditionally release him. In addition, she implies that they take care of Dhondup's rehabilitation to compensate for all the

qi-jia-zhen-20120-sept-2nd

hardship he and his family have been put through.

"As members of a Han Chinese NGO we should feel ashamed and thus would like to take this opportunity to tell the several million Tibetan brothers and sisters that we feel guilty and - We are Sorry!" Mrs Qi added, "2012 has been a very unfortunate year with many Tibetans choosing to highlight the "No freedom or give me death" concept. Most of those that sacrificed their lives by setting themselves ablaze were young blooming flowers of life."

On behalf of all the members, she expressed her deep sympathy for the self-immolators and stated that, "To combat human rights abuses in Tibet, Tibetans and other minorities in China should join hands and work together to change this unreasonable state."Revealing why this honour was bestowed on the filmmaker, Mrs Qi Jia Zhen said, "We hope that this award is a small step forward in promoting understanding between both the Tibetan and

Chinese people. Only in this way will there be progressive realization of national unity based on equality."

This sentiment is shared by many, not only in the Chinese community, but worldwide. Numerous human rights organizations have condemned the arrests of Jigme Gyatso and Dhondup Wanghcen. Amnesty International protested the arrests of both men and labelled the filmmaker a prisoner of conscience.Many other groups such as Human Rights Watch, Front Line, The Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and the Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy have all advocated on Dhondup Wangchen's behalf.

A coalition of human rights and Tibetan activist groups calling for Dhondup Wangchen's release held a rally in New York City's Times Square on 9 March 2012, the 53rd anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan uprising.

Entire Tibet Under Undeclared Martial Law: Exile Govt. Calls for Help

...Prospects and Challenges’ Conference Held to Acclaim ...From front page economic relations. Additionally, the Tibetan delegation highlighted key topics, such as the threat to environmental damage on the Tibetan plateau, and the risk of global warming to the planet's ‘the third pole', Tibet.

Organised by the Tibet Policy Institute, the audience, which consisted of students training at Sarah College for the CTA, were addressed by Kalon DickiChoeyang;Kalon for the department of information and international relations.

Visiting professor; Tseng Chien Yuan, of Chung Hua Universitybegan by discussingthe topic: ‘Referendum in Taiwan: System and Vision'.

Following this speech, Mr Tenzin Norbu gave an engaging talk on the environmental importance of Tibet as the ‘third pole'. Drawing upon new research, Mr Norbu discussed vividly the manner in which Tibet, which acts as the ‘water tower of Asia', recharges the rivers of central Asia, and is facing imminent threat. A mixture of mining, Chinese damming projects and global warming threaten the unique ecosystem on the roof of the world.The Taiwanese delegation then led a speech by Chu Cheng Chi, on‘The transformation of the Democratic Progressive Party, China's Policy and Tibet' from the esteemed Phd student, of the department of sociology, N a t i o n a l Ta i w a n U n i v e r s i t y. F r e n c h P h D student, Julie Couderc, from the National Taiwan University, then spoke on ‘The Tibet Issue and Contemporary Perspective: Construction of Political Relations and Scales of Connections'. Highlighting the similarities between France and Tibet, she stated: "for

both the French and Tibetans, language very important".Drawing upon His Holiness the Dalai Lamas emphasis on the need for education, she called for dialogue and a strong relationship between the Central Tibetan Administration and French education systems, which, she added, are far cheaper than other countries in Europe and America.

When questioned about the similarities and differences between Taiwan and Tibet, she added: "I think when looking at independent nations, we have to look at identity. Do the Tibetans identify with the Chinese government? Is it the same with Taiwan? I don't care about the history, people look at history how they want to. Look at what the people want".

"The main difference for Tibet and Taiwan is that Tibet is fully controlled by china, Taiwan is not".

Wang Qin concluded the series of speeches, drawing upon political issues for cross-strait relations in the region.

The inspiring words of the visiting Taiwanese academics certainly seemed to make an impression on the audience of students and members of the CTA, as the conference drew to a close. After a question and answer session, which finalised some of the finer points of the conference, the delegation concluded. Inspiring debate and new thought into the minds of future leaders and researches, the conference was deemed a success by students.

YC. Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post International

By Tibetan Official Media: Tibet.Net

Dr Lobsang Sangay, the political leader of Tibet addressing during a conference being held in Dharamshala, India in June 2012, by all India Tibet Support Groups. Photo: TPI YC. Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: With the wave of self-immolation protests spreading across Tibet, the entire region is now 'under undeclared martial law.' The Chinese regime has now been banned international tourists and journalists from entering the all parts of Tibet, exile Tibetan government said on Thursday, August 30, 2012.

"The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) is gravely concerned by the deteriorating situation in Tibet.

Despite repeated appeals by the Central Tibetan Administration to refrain from drastic actions, over 51 Tibetans have now set themselves on fire in protest against the Chinese government's repressive policies," said CTA in a statement.

"Since March 2009, over 51 Tibetans between age of 16 - 64, comprising of monks, nuns, student, nomads, farmers, have now set themselves on fire asking for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet and freedom for Tibetans," the statement said.

The Tibetan government in exile said that the "whole of Tibet is effectively under undeclared martial law,

and remains closed to foreign tourists and journalists.

Such brutal response from the Chinese government has pushed an increasing number of Tibetans to continue taking drastic steps. The responsibility for the tragic self-immolations in Tibet lies entirely with the Chinese government, so does the solution."

"The international community, including governments and parliaments of countries such as Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, South Africa, and the US, have expressed serious concern over the critical situation in Tibet," CTA said.

"Resolutions have been passed and statements issued urging the Chinese authorities to take proactive steps to ease security clampdown in Tibet, address the underlying grievances of Tibetans through dialogue, and cease promoting policies that threaten the Tibetan language, culture, religion, heritage and environment.

Central Tibetan Administration urges the Chinese government to heed the urgent appeal of the international community," the statement further

added.However, the authorities have simply ignored or disregarded those resolutions call upon Hu's regime to respect human rights and religious freedoms of Tibetan people.

CTA also said, "the Chinese people, who have the right to know the real situation in Tibet, include individuals who have expressed their concern over the grim situation in Tibet. This included renowned Beijing-based artist, Ai Weiwei, who recently expressed his personal embarrassment at how the Chinese government is dealing the tragic selfimmolations of Tibetans in Tibet."

"We appeal to individual governments to use their good offices to engage the Chinese government to end the crisis in Tibet at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly meeting in September, to allow fact-finding delegation and international media to visit Tibet, and to pursue substantive dialogue with the Central Tibetan Administration to resolve the issue of Tibet," the statement concluded.

5 TPI NEWS TIBET Expressions of Support for Tibetan Golden Jubilee of CTSA Attended by Cause in Kham Region His Holiness The Tibet Post International

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

By Ruta Vilkaite, Tibet Post International

Chinese national flag was replaced by Tibetan flag overnight in Bonpo Township’s school.

By Ruta Vilkaite, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Two acts of defiance against the Chinese authorities have recently taken place in the Kham region of Tibet.

On the night of September 7, a Tibetan flag was raised by unidentified individuals at the Bonpo Township school in Zachu County (Kham region, Eastern Tibet).

Jamyon, a monk from Sera Monastery in South India, sent the latest information on the incident saying that the Chinese flag was lowered during the night and the Tibetan flag raised in its place. Concurrently, many handwritten flyers with the slogan "Free Tibet" were thrown all over the school's grounds.

The next day, according to Jamyon, local Chinese officials removed the flag and are currently looking for the individuals who staged the incident.

On September 5, a Tibetan business woman, Soyak (40), was arrested for encouraging other Tibetans to participate in the Lhakar movement.Lhakar, or 'White Wednesday' is a self-reliance movement that started after the 2008 Tibetan uprising. Each Wednesday, Tibetans make a special effort to wear

traditional clothes, speak their own language, eat in Tibetan restaurants and shop at Tibetanowned businesses.

Information about the arrest was received from Kynrab Nyima, a resident of Dharamshala, northern India. He explained that Soyak is the daughter of well-known businessman Namsi Lhakyab, and that she has always been active in the Tibet cause. Nyima reported that, and every Wednesday - Wednesday being the day of Dalai Lama's birth - she followed the Tibetan tradition of doing good deeds.

Nyima continued that business people, including Soyak, were trading traditional Tibetan jewelry and caterpillar fungus in Yak S q u a r e , Yu s h u C o u n t y, w h e r e t h e y a l s o decided to wear traditional clothing every Wednesday to show their support for peaceful resistance. When Soyak met Tibetans who were not participating in this activity, she reportedly encouraged them to engage more with this special occasion.

Shortly after her actions, at 6pm, Soyak was arrested and taken away by police officers.

Current Update on Jigme Dolma's Sentence, Karze, Eastern Tibet

Dharamshala: This morning His Holiness the Dalai Lama has left Dharamsala for the visit to Delhi where this afternoon he attended the 50th anniversary of the Central Tibetan Schools Administration (CTSA).

At the event the Dalai Lama was joined by Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Shri Kapil Sibal, Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay, Joint Secretary and Chairman of the CTSA, Shri Apurva Chandra, and the Secretary for School Education and Literacy, Shrimati Anshu Vaishji.

CTSA opened their first school in Mussoorie where 50 students attended lessons. Later on, schools were opened in Shimla, Dalhousie and Darjeeling.

As for today, approximately 8750 students receive modern education in 67 schools opened by CTSA. Lobsang Sangay, Tibet's Prime Minister, former student of the CTSA school in Darjeeling, expressed his gratitude to the association, especially for His Holiness's vision, which the CTSA has put into effect and India government for providing modern education to Tibetan children. "It's easy to thank you on the one hand, but difficult on the other, because we can't thank you enough", said Lobsang Sangay.

The other speaker at the event Kapil Sibal, the minister for Human Resource Development in the Union Government, mentioned that as today they celebrate this Golden Jubilee, they should move forward and try to improve their work. He quoted Douglas Adams: ""The best way to predict the future is to build it," which is exactly what we should be doing".As His Holiness the Dalai Lama started his speech, he remembered Pandit Nehru with a smile on his face. After the arrival to India in 1959, the Dalai Lama immediately got concerned about the future of about 80,000 Tibetan refugees."He [Pandit Nehru] came to meet me soon after my arrival in

By Thu Flower, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: The conditions of Tibetans residing in eastern Tibet have recently worsened, with numerous cases of unexplained arrests and public protests in Chamdo Region, Kham Prefecture.

On August 30, Chinese police arrested around 70 monks from four monasteries in Gonjo County, Chamdo. The reasons for the arrests remain unclear, and the Chinese authorities claim the monks were taken to "legal education classes" for 15 days. Many local people believe they are actually being held in detention, and the authorities have not specified what their fate will be upon the conclusion of the 'classes'.

Further, monks and lamas of Chamdo Region have been instructed to seek permission from the Chinese government before travelling to other counties.

If they are caught travelling outside of their county without permission, they face the threat of being charged and punished.Meanwhile, local Chinese government officials faced resistance from the other end of Chamdo Region when they tried to commence a mining project at Samlong Mountain near Raja monastery (one of the monasteries where the 70 monks were arrested). On August 19, county officials arrived at the mountain but faced oppositon from local villagers.

By TCHRD

Jigme Dolma, 17 years old Tibetan Gril From karze County in Kham Region.

By Ruta Vilkaite, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Jigme Dolma, 17 years old Tibetan, who carried out the protest action on the 24th June this year, was sentenced for 3 years of imprisonment by Karze Community Court on the 25th of August, according to a latest report received by The Tibet Post International.

Dolma staged a solitary peaceful action in the main market area of Karze County on June 24, 2012.She threw leaflets in the air and, as during many previous protest actions, called out for His Holiness the Dalai Lama's return, freedom for Tibet and release of the Panchen Lama together with other political prisoners. Just minutes later, Chinese police have beaten her and hauled away.

It has been reported previously, that Jigme Dolma's father has been denied access to see his daughter. However, after he has heard about Dolma's bodily injuries.

His father has waited at the hospital entrance where she was kept and later had a glimpse at his daughter's condition, it said.

He noticed injuries on Dolma's hands, back and legs while she was being escorted by local police personnel.

After the verdict of her sentence was pronounced, Jigme Dolma got to see her family only twice, while on the 28th of the same month she was moved from Karze County's Detention Centre to the unspecified prison in China to serve her 3 years imprisonment.

Dharamshala,11 September 2012: A Tibetan political prisoner who was released last year after serving a threeyear sentence is in poor health with multiple health complications, reported his niece, Nyidon, in a recent interview with TCHRD. Born in Kora Township in Karze (Chinese: Ganzi) County, Nyidon escaped into India with an overriding mission: "to tell the story of my uncle to the world" as China continues to keep a tight lid on information coming out of Tibet.Chime Gonpo, now 41, was detained on 18 March 2008 for staging a peaceful protest against the Chinese government in Karze County in Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Around 2 pm (local time) on 18 March 2008, Gonpo along with ten other Tibetans held a protest, calling for the return of the Dalai Lama from exile, and freedom in Tibet, and the release of all political prisoners in Tibet including the 11th Panchen Lama Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. Minutes after the protest, local armed police arrived on the scene and started beating the protesters before taking them away, according Gonpo's niece, Nyidon, who arrived in India last monthNyidon left her farming village in Kardze in April 2012 and reached Nepal in May the same year before arriving in India in August.

Like every family member or relative of former political prisoners in Tibet, the lives of Nyidon and her family members were turned upside down since the arrest and subsequent sentencing of her uncle to three years in prison for non-violent protest.A week after Gonpo's release on 17 March 2011, his family including his aged mother began to notice drastic changes in his health. "Uncle began to lose weight and his body turned darker day by day," Nyidon remembered in her interview with TCHRD.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama visiting the CTS school in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, South India, during a visit in the early 1970?s. File photo/OHHDL

India; when we were discussing education, he told me that the best way to keep the Tibet issue alive was to educate our children. There was discussion about what the medium of instruction should be, whether it should be Hindi or English. Nehru recommended English because it is an international language. After lunch he insisted that we announce the formation of the CTSA. Now, 52 years later, this organization is still looking after our schools", said His Holiness.

He also spoke about the history of Tibet and India, when Tibetan Emperors during the 7th, 8th and 9th centuries have invited Indian teachers to educate locals. Even today, Tibetans prefer to

learn Buddhism directly from Indian sources."I regard India as our Guru and us as your chela, because, just as in ancient times you taught us Buddhism, so in the present you have given us modern education. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to this. I thank you on my own part, on behalf of the Tibetan refugee community and on behalf of the 6 million Tibetans", concluded his speech His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

During his 8 day visit in Delhi, His Holiness will be also giving talks on The Importance of NonViolence and Ethical Values as well as teachings and conferring the Avalokiteshvera Initiation.

Arrests, Protests and Unrest in Tibet's Chamdo Region

Samlong Mountain Near The Raja Monastery, Amdo Region East Tibet

Many villagers camped around the holy mountain, holding protest posters, including one emphasising Point 44 of the Chinese Constitution, which focuses

on environmental preservation. They also sent letters of complaint to province officials, but reportedly have yet to receive any response.

Former Tibetan Political Prisoner in Poor Health After Release

Kardze (Ch: Ganzi) town in June 2011.

Gonpo's family immediately took him to three different hospitals in Chengdu but the doctors failed to make any diagnosis. Gonpo was then taken to a hospital in Beijing where he was diagnosed with hepatitis and kidney disease.

Nyidon said her family had all along suspected that the failing health of Gonpo, who was a "healthy and energetic" man before he went into the prison, was due to the beatings and torture he suffered during his three-year imprisonment. Gonpo's family later took him back home after his condition improved. However, even as Gonpo was recuperating at his home, the local police continued to make weekly visits, asking him all sorts of questions and to see he has not left anywhere without their knowledge.

The fact that Gonpo had completed his sentence did not count as he and his family continue to be under the surveillance of the security officials. Their movements and activities and constantly monitored and controlled.

Gonpo's family had to seek permission from the local

police station and other government offices to take Gonpo for treatment in Chengdu and Beijing.

"It is normal for family members and relatives of a former or current political prisoner to face many hardships at the hands of the police and other government officials," Nyidon said.

Before leaving her hometown for Lhasa in April 2012, Nyidon had to get permission from five different County and Township level offices including the local police station, the Public Security Bureau (PSB) office and government offices. In order not to draw their suspicions, she told them she was leaving for a pilgrimage to Lhasa.After his violent arrest by armed police on 18 March 2008, Gonpo's whereabouts remained unknown for one year and three months. Despite consistent efforts by his family members to find information about his detention, Gonpo remained ‘disappeared'. "I remember my grandmother (Gonpo's mother) calling out his name, saying prayers, and then breaking down in tears thinking he might have already died," Nyidon said. Gonpo's imprisonment in Mianyang Prison (Sichuan Province) led to the rapid deterioration of his mother's health.Many others, some of whom Nyidon knew personally, were also sentenced along with her uncle, Gonpo. Nyiga, 50, from Sershul Township was sentenced to eight years and Goga, 45, who hails from the same village as Nyidon was sentenced to three years in prison. Another man, a friend of Nyiga and Goga, whose name Nyidon cannot recall was sentenced to seven years. " All that they did to get such heavy sentences was to hold peaceful protests," said Nyidon. "My uncle is a man of conscience; he wouldn't hurt anyone."

6

The Tibet Post International

By Samuel Ivor, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: Passing a historic milestone in Tibetan history, the 52nd anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day was celebrated with the Kalon Tripa, Lobsang Sangay, holding full political power of the Central Tibetan Administration for the first time in the institution's history.

Amid a morning of celebrations, music and jubilation in the Main Temple, the exile community in Dharamshala, India, were met with a buoyant celebration of Tibetan culture and pride of stoic democracy in exile.

His Holiness the Dalia Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet was greeted at colourful the event by a broad delegations of guests, including Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay, and the Tibetan Parliament in Exile.

Members of the audience watched in awe as performances by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts commenced the anniversary with a musical bagpipe entrance, followed by a new song for Tibet cause.

The Kalon Tripa, Dr Sangay, raised the Tibetan national flag to a chorus of the national anthem, symbolically reminding the audience of Tibetans of their roots, identity and homeland in the Land of Snows.

In a statement by the Kashag (Executive Cabinet) on the auspicious day, greetings and obeisance were made to His Holiness and fellow Tibetans; both in Tibet and in Exile. The Kashag stated: 'We can take pride in the fact that Tibetans in exile have proven that Buddhism is compatible with democracy', adding: 'As we commemorate this important anniversary, our thoughts remain with our brothers and sisters in Tibet aspiring for freedom and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to His homeland...Tibetans around the world offer our prayers to those Tibetans who have succumbed to self-immolations and express solidarity with the arrested, tortured

TPI NEWS

EXILE TIBET

H.H Dalai Lamas' Vision of Democracy Blossoms on 52nd Anniversary

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Top Officials Celebrating the 52nd Democracy Day at Main Tibetan Temple in Dharanmshala, in india. September 02nd 2012. Photo:TPI

and imprisoned, including all the Tibetans who live in Tibet under repressive rule' 'To fellow Tibetans, this is the time for unity

TYC’s Three Hunger Strikers Vow to Continue Indefinite Fast from Tihar Jail

and solidarity as expressed though the prayers, songs and last wishes of the selfimmolators. We must remain vigilant to counter

the hard line Chinese leaders' efforts to undermine the Tibetan cause. We have laid a solid foundation that will only grow stronger

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

if we follow the three guiding principles of unity, innovation and self-reliance. Tibetans are fortunate to be the beneficiary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's vision of a democratic Tibetan polity.

His unceasing efforts to bring us to this moment have helped to unleash Tibetans' dynamic energy and empowered them to determine their own future.'

'We pray for the long and healthy life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. May the aspirations of all Tibetans within and outside Tibet, be fulfilled' Amid speeches by the Kalon Tripa, and the speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Penpa Tsering, the morning drew to a close beneath the gaze of an enormous Tibetan nation flag strung across the temple complex, and to the harmonious singing of traditional Tibetan performers.

Immediately after the celebrations, on the balcony of the Tibet Museum, within the Main Te m p l e p r e m i s e s , T h e ' Q i ' s C u l t u r a l Foundation', a Chinese NGO based in Australia, recognised the plight of Dhondup Wangchen, who created the film 'Leaving Fear Behind', and is currently in prison under Chinese rule.

Wa n g c h e n ' s f i l m i n s p i r e d a n d c r e a t e d awareness about the plight of Tibetan people and the current situation in the region, despite enormous risk to his freedom. His sacrifice was made all the more poignant on a day spent observing the long struggle and need for true democracy for the Tibetan people.

September 2nd 2012 marked a historic day; under the full political guidance of a democratically elected leader for the first time, surely His Holiness' cherished wish of a truly democratic Tibetan institution has come into blossom, as the future of His people marches one step closer to democracy and justice.

10th Day Indefinite Hunger Strike Campaign at the United Nations Office Thu Flower, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: 12 September, 2012. The 10th day of Indefinite Hunger Strike was marked by a demonstration outside of the United Nations Information Centre in New Delhi to appeal for the UN intervention in ending the undeclared martial law situation in Tibet.

Amidst the barricades and guards outside of the UN building, Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) protestors were adamant in speaking directly to the UN about the worsening conditions in Tibet, as well as the UN previous promises in addressing those issues. Tibetan students from various Delhi universities, led by TYC Finance Secretary, Konchok Yangphel, marched towards the UN information Centre while chanting prayers. The aim of the demonstration was to submit memorandums to the UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon and High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Navi Pillay.

TYC President, Tsewang Rigzin gave a speech to supporters and the media outside the UN office, informing them about the critical status of Tibet under Chinese oppressive policies. Furthermore, he spoke about the March 2012 hunger strike in New York, which was called off due to the UN's pledge to send one of their delegations Indian Police arrest an activist carrying the Tibetan national flag outside the Chinese embassy in New Delhi

By Amanda Peters, The Tibet Post International

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Day two of the Tibetan Youth Congress' "Indefinite hunger strike" did not turn out as planned with the three hunger strikers being detained in prison for two nights in a row.

Despite Indian authorities assuring that the hunger strike would be allowed to go on, it was a constant struggle to continue the strike.

A report released by the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) recounted details of the last two days of the strike. Three TYC Central Executive members; Vice President, Dhondup Lhadar, Organizational Secretary, Penpa Tsering and Cultural Secretary, Jigme Shoipa started their indefinite fast on September 3 at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi.

Trouble started around 8:30 pm IST when the Indian police came to the protest site to take away the three hunger strikers and two activists to Connaught Place Police Station. The authorities maintained that this was done as a preventive measure, as the hunger strike was a security risk to the Chinese Defence Minister's visit to India.

However, they assured the people that the strike would be allowed to carry on.

On September 4, at 7:00 am IST the detainees were released and allowed to go back to the protest site.

However, an hour and a half later the police were back under the guise of requiring signatures from the ones taken away. Uncertain about the authorities' true intentions, the rest of the protestors waited till 12:30 pm for their return to Jantar Mantar.

There was still more to come when ten policemen arrived at Jantar Mantar at 8:00 pm. They forcibly took away the three hunger strikers and activists,

arresting them this time and putting them in cells at Tuglak Marg Police Station. FIRs were also filed against the arrested.

Meanwhile, about 30 TYC activists staged a protest during the meeting between Chinese Defence Minister, Liang Guanglie and Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, at 6:00 pm near India Gate.

The shouting out of anti- China slogans resulted in the arrests of all the 30 TYC activists. They were also imprisoned at Tuglak Marg Police Station.

Despite the constant hindrances, the three hunger strikers unanimously vowed to continue their fasts in jail.

Later that evening, the Delhi police issued further orders notifying TYC to remove their hunger strike tent from Jantar Mantar, warning that it would be broken down and dismantled if left standing.

Furthermore, at 12 am, the hunger strikers, protestors and activists, were sent to Tihar jail under the orders of the Special Court of Magistrate, New Delhi.

TYC in their report maintains that their form of expression would continue to be peaceful and nonviolent, despite the disappointing response and treatment the Indian Police have shown the last few days towards the Tibet issue.

They vowed to keep their mission going to appeal to the European Parliament, United Nations and the international community to immediately intervene and compel the Chinese government to douse the fiery protests inside Tibet.

Dharamshala: In a joint press release on August 29, Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) India and the Tibetan Women's Association (TWA) pledged to intensify their actions demanding global diplomatic intervention to end China's failed policies in Tibet.

The statement was issued in the wake of the recent selfimmolations in Tibet which brought the total to 51 cases since 2009.

Lobsang Kelsang (18), a monk from Kirti Monastery, and Damchoe (17) set themselves ablaze on the morning of August 27 in Ngaba region, eastern Tibet. Reports confirmed that both died soon after, due to their injuries.

"The Chinese government has driven more than 50 Tibetans to burn themselves in protest," said Executive Director of SFT India, Tenzin Dorjee. "Beijing has the power to change its policies, withdraw its troops, and end the self-immolations overnight, but instead it continues to exacerbate the Tibetan people's suffering and grievances."TWA President Tashi Dolma urged world governments to apply multilateral pressure and take action against China to end the crackdown. "We remain deeply saddened that India has not spoken on this issue," she said. "Thus we request for concrete tangible support from the Indian government."•Since last year, 49 self-immolations have taken place, of which seven have occurred in August 2012 alone. At least 40 of these protestors have died. These tragic events mark the largest ever group of self-immolation protests for a single cause in history.Yet these actions remain barely reported internationally and fail to enlist support to pressure China to take responsibility for its actions and ensure Tibetans their rights. The Chinese government deems these as 'terrorist acts' and refuses to examine their root causes.

In spite of government crackdowns on travel and

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) prostration campaign as they marched to the UN Information Centre. Photo: TPI/TYC

to Tibet and to promptly contact Chinese government about the predicaments. Up until recently, no communication has been made by the UN and no representative has visited Tibet as the situation in the country worsened. "We are holding UN responsible for whatever happens to the three hunger strikers. We are

appealing and will continue on until concrete actions have been taken by the UN," stated Tsewang Rigzin.Shortly after his statement to the gatherings, security guards and police officials escorted him along with Joint-Secretary, Tenzing Norsang to the UN visitor's gate. Thereafter an official greeted the TYC representatives outside of the gate and subsequently informed them that "they will not be allowed inside as the rules have changed and even the Speaker of the Tibetan parliament in exile and delegation weren't allowed inside recently." Eventually the unyielding TYC representatives managed to persuade the official to allow them inside to talk with UN officials, including Ritch Millers. After the officials were briefed about the urgent situation in Tibet, they ensured TYC that the memorandums will be immediately sent to the Secretary General and High Commissioner to be examined by them.Although the hunger strikers are steadily losing their body weights and have become dramatically weaker, their hope for Tibet is ever stronger as they were notified about the progress the campaign has made.

NGOs Demand Global Diplomatic Intervention in Occupied Tibet

On August 29, 2012, members from Students for a Free Tibet India and Tibetan Women’s Association and supporters gathering to protest against Chinese repressive policies in Tibet, that causing the recent wave of self-immolations in their homeland. Photo: TPI

communications, Ngaba region has seen significant protests in recent weeks, following the self-immolations of two Tibetans on August 13. On August 14, a mass demonstration took place in Rebkong, Amdo region, outside the police station to protest the unprovoked beating of four Tibetans by intoxicated police officers the previous day."We call on India to join like-minded governments to immediately establish strong, public, multilateral mechanisms to hold Beijing accountable for its atrocities in Tibet," said DorjeeTseten, President of

SFT India.SFT has launched a petition urging Shri S M Krishna, the Minister of External Affairs, to support a strong multilateral action for Tibet. The petition will be delivered to his office on October 2, Gandhi Jayanti (Gandhi's birthday - a public holiday in India).Urgent response protests will also be held in other continents.

During the upcoming United Nations Human Rights Council and General Assembly meetings, SFT members will join a Global Day of Action on September 5 to urge foreign ministries to take joint action for Tibet.

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

TPI NEWS

Protestors Outlined 51 Bodies in Front of German Chancellor's Office

INTERNATIONAL

The Tibet Post International

7

Democracy Day Highlighted by the Tibetan Parliament In-Exile's Speech

By Ruta Vilkaite, The Tibet Post International

On Tuesday (28 August, 2012), Tibetan supporters stage a protest in front of German Chancellor's office.

By Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: On Tuesday (28 August, 2012), Tibetan supporters stage a protest in front of German Chancellor's office to urge her to address the crisis in Tibet for her upcoming visit to China.

With the recent onset of self-immolations followed by heavy crackdown from Chinese authority, Tibet Initiative Deutschland (TID) staged a "Crime Scene: Tibet" in front of German Chancellor, Angela Merkel's office.

Protestors drew 51 bodies on the floor using chalk to symbolize the 51 Tibetans who set themselves on fire in protest against Chinese oppression in Tibet. "We are calling on her to publicly condemn China's crackdown in Tibet and to demand unlimited access for diplomats and foreign journalist," said Nadine Baumann,

Executive Director of TID.Chancellor Angela Merkel is arranged to meet with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in order to discuss vast range of current global issues including European debt crisis and plans for economic revival. Germany is China's biggest European trading partner and the Chancellor wants to assure China that European's bonds and investments are safe.Some Tibetan supporters fear that issues relating to human rights have been completely ignored due to the debt problems and economic crisis. By outlining the " v i c t i m ' s " b o d i e s o n t h e f l o o r, Ti b e t a n supporters hoped to set a reminder about those who self-immolated for the human rights cause.

RTYC Belgium Stages a Protest Outside the Chinese Embassy in Brussels

Dharamshala: Today, Sunday, August 2nd 2012, is the 52nd anniversary of Tibetan democracy that thousands of Tibetans and supporters together with top officials of the three pillars of democracy and His Holiness the Dalai Lama have gathered to celebrate at the His Holiness temple in Dharamshala, India.

The speech was given at this event by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile members who talked about the history of the democracy which unfortunately did not evolve the same way for the Tibetan nation.

The temporal and spiritual leader of Tibet, the Dalai Lama, wished to introduce these democratic ideas to his own people. While Chinese occupied the country in 1949 and burdened the people with various repressions, the goal of making Tibet democratic country was lost temporary.

Tibet's leader, followed by noble people, into exile has encouraged them to elect their own representatives and on 2nd of September 1960 the first Tibet's government was born to lead the people.

The idea of free Tibet turned into a draft constitution for the future. From that time, the Parliament -in-Exile became law making organ.Since last year, His Holiness the Dalai Lama "devoted all his political and administrative powers to the leaders directly elected by the Tibetan people", spoke Parliament's member Penpa Tsering. The works of the Carter of Tibetans in Exile and the Central Tibetan Administration in Exile were amended accordingly and organizations work towards the Tibetan cause until the issue will be resolved.

Penpa Tsering said that for the last 53 years when Chinese armed forces entered Tibet, people have been deprived of their right to practice religion freely- thousands of monasteries have been destroyed, various restrictions have been implemented on monks and nuns- all in order to destroy the religion. Nomads are also facing difficulties as they are forced to change their traditional lifestyle. Damage to the land and its wildlife in particular is another part that is being destroyed by the Chinese communists in Tibet. "The

By

Regional Tibetan Youth Congress (RTYC) in Belgium chanting protest in front of Chinese Embassy. Photo: TPI/ Dennis Barbion

By Amanda Peters , Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: To express their discontent with the intensified crackdown inside Tibet, the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress in Belgium (RTYC) organised a demonstration in front of the Chinese embassy in Brussels, on Wednesday, September 12.

20 people in total participated in the demonstration; among them were four Western Tibet supporters. There was also a representative from the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO), to show their support for the Tibetan cause.

A reliable source said, “Although there were not too many people at the demonstration, this action has upset those working at the Chinese embassy. Several people visited the embassy that day, thus witnessing the protest.”

The demonstration ended with the singing of the Tibetan National Anthem, followed by a minute of silence for those Tibetans that died under the Chinese regime.

Ever since the peaceful demonstrations during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, China has continued to violently suppress any form of expression, enforcing a crackdown on media and travel inside Tibet. As a repercussion to this, Tibetans are driven to take up more

extreme ways to be noticed and heard.

Since March 2009, 51 Tibetans have set themselves on fire to publicly protest against China’s rule in Tibet and to call for the return of their spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, to Tibet.

This form of protest was undertaken to call on world leaders and organizations, such as the United Nations to intervene and help find a peaceful solution to the Tibetan issue.

The RTYC Belgium believes that the global desire for freedom and democracy should also manifest itself in Tibet.

The aim of the demonstration was to urge the UN to send an independent observer to assess the on-going situation in Tibet, to demand that world leaders and international bodies; such as the European Parliament, take thorough measures for a peaceful and sustainable solution for Tibet, to release all political prisoners and lastly, to commence negotiations between China and Tibet.

The RTYC Belgium calls upon all regional, national and European politicians, as well as the general public to learn about the real situation in Tibet and support their peaceful struggle for freedom.

Thu Flower, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: September 10, 2012, Dharamsala; In commemoration of the ‘Twenty Eighth Years in Exile’ since its establishment, the Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) on its 28th re-founding anniversary in exile, pays heartfelt tribute to Tibetan martyrs for their supreme sacrifices which continues to keep the spirit of Tibet alive and hopeful even after 53 years of China’s brutal suppression.

The TWA was founded in Lhasa on March 12, 1959, when Tibetan women from all three provinces of Tibet gathered and stood united for the first time in Tibetan history and challenged the brutal clampdown by the Chinese government.

The Tibetan women started a peaceful resistance against the repressive Chinese regime. Under the indomitable leadership of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the peerless efforts of the Tibetan women in exile resulted in the reestablishment of TWA on September 10, 1984 in India. TWA is not just the most powerful women’s organization in Tibetan history, but also an only Tibetan women’s NGO in exile. TWA advocates human rights for women inside Tibet and is committed to empowering women in exile. TWA remains steadfast in resolving Tibet issues through their actions in exile.Committed to resolve the injustice inside Tibet, TWA’s expansion of 56 regional chapters spread across four continents: Asia, America, Europe and Australia, totalling about 16,000 members in exile, further strengthens the advocacy objective for social justice. At TWA, they consider themselves as the successful continuation of the absolute determination and efforts put forward by their elder generation.

Considering the critical on-going situation inside Tibet, more than 50 Tibetans have opted for supreme sacrifice by offering their lives for the nation; calling for the freedom inside Tibet, return of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and restoration of basic human right in Tibet. TWA remains gravely concerned about the status of the martyrs whose status remains unknown or involves hospitalization and the denial of family visitation rights. TWA pays tribute to their sacrifices and deem their act as the ultimate form of non-violent protest.

Thus to draw attention to the on-going situation inside Tibet and to garner international support: · TWA has come out with a short documentary featuring the martyrs’ acts and their appeals.· They hand out pamphlets casing the photos of the martyrs, along with their appeals to the masses. This pamphlet will be also distributed all over by their regional chapters through local newspaper.· They have also organized a panel discussion in the evening at TCV Day School Hall at 5:30 pm on the topic: ‘Middle Way Approach; its Past, Present and The Future’. Ms. Dhardon Sharling, Mr. Thupten Lungrik and Mr.

Tibetans offering prayers at the prayer service; Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay addressing the prayer service.

people [...] continue to suffer hell on earth through endless days and nights of strike-hard campaigns of various kind which deprive them of the right to peaceful enjoyment of all their rights and freedoms", stated the speaker of the Parliament.

The Tibetans always stood strongly and fought non-violently against the Chinese occupation. A total number of 51 of lay and clergy people have self immolated in order to draw the attention of the world while the Chinese government reacted to these protest actions with the unleash of the People's Armed Police in Tibet area. These clashes ended in countless deaths, detentions and disappearances.Innumerable non-violent actions and peaceful projects have been held since 1959.

This year the Tibet Parliament-in-Exile has launched the freedom movement known as the Flame of Truth rally on 6th of July. Started in three places in India it will continue through more than 30 countries around the world raising awareness of the cause and collecting signatures for the petition which will be

presented to the UN.Member of Parliament-in-Exile Penpa Tsering had a message to the People's Republic of China as well as other countries of the world. He encouraged the Chinese Government to not ignore Tibet issue and take responsibility for the actions in the occupied country. As for the free countries of the world, the message sent was encouragement to not only look at their own economic interests, but to spare some time and deeds in supporting the Tibetan cause."We would like to call with emphatic stress on the UN and many of its member countries, as well as on governments, people, organizations of various kinds, prominent public figures, journalists, and so on who support freedom and justice to carry out thorough investigations to find out the truth about the aspirations of the Tibetan people, the brutally inhuman policies being pursued by the government of China in Tibet, and truly voluminous streams of misrepresentations, lies and distortions of the facts that China continues to bring out", ending his speech underlined Penpa Tsering.

Tibetan Women’s Association Marks Its 28th Anniversary in Exile

A Tibetan woman showcasing her support during Tibet Women Uprising Day on 12th March 2012 In Dharamshala, India. Photo: TPI/Pema Tso

Kalsang Gyaltsen, all members of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile are the panellists of the discussion.[Statement of appeals from Tibetan Woman Association] We witnessed 38 cases of self-immolations in 2012 and 51 inside Tibet since February 2009. Forty two of all those self-immolated have succumbed to their injuries and the status of the rest remain unknown.

Central TWA, joined by its 56 chapters, on its 28th refounding anniversary would like to make the following appeals and requests to the worlds’ leaders and the masses.· To the global leaders and the communityWe Tibetans, numbering among the 7 billion humans in this world, have suffered tremendous oppression under the Chinese communists for the past 53 years since the occupation of Tibet in 1959. We urge you all to speak for Tibet and save Tibet from the on-going oppression by China. We ask the governments to urge the UN High Commissioner for Human rights to visit China and Tibet.· To the Chinese Government and the people of ChinaChinese Government allegations against His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile as the perpetrator of the self-immolations are completely untrue and groundless. We, in fact, hold the Chinese Government and its hard-line policies on the Tibetan people responsible for these immolations. The same is shared by people of conscience around the world, which have

been evident through various news outlets. Therefore, TWA holds the Chinese Govt. accountable for these immolations. To the Indian Government and the people of India.

So far more than 40 countries including the Government of the United States and European countries have expressed their solidarity and passed resolutions expressing concerns on the selfimmolations yet it pains us to see that till date, India, a country close to Tibet and dear to its people, has not officially voiced on this issue.India and Tibet both in culture and in religion share a very strong historical relationship which is emphasized often by His Holiness the Dalai Lama through that of the Guru and the Chela/ Teacher & the disciple relation.

Moreover Tibet and India share a geographical and environmental significance for which it is vital that both countries continue this cordial relationship therefore, we urge the Govt. of India and its people to pay immediate attention to the plight of the Tibetan people.The Tibetan Women's Association (TWA) has 56 regional chapters and over 16, 000 members outside Tibet. Today, TWA is the second largest Tibetan NGO and the only women's NGO in exile that advocates human rights for Tibetan women in Tibet and works to empower Tibetan women in exile, in particular new refugee women from Tibet. TWA's tag-line is 'Advocacy for home, Action in exile.'

8

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS EXILE TIBET

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post

Kalon Tripa Inaugurates a New Traditional Thangka Painting Institute

Mr Kalsang Dhamchoe, Teacher and director of Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting Giving introductory speech. photo: TPI/Sangay

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post

Dharamshala: In the late evening of September 7, Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting opened its doors for the first time. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Club House Hotel in Mcleodganj, Dharamsala, northern India.

The chief guest for the evening, Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay, and guest of honour Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, head of Dhongyu Gatsel Ling Nunnery, unveiled the institution’s insignia and lit butter lamps, to commence the event. Soon after, there was a minute of silence in honour of those who have sacrificed their lives for Tibet.

The second chief guest of the evening, Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, and other members of the Tibetan Parliament-inexile, attended the event, which hosted more than 250guests, including representatives of various NGOs. First up to the stage was Kalsang Dhamchoe, teacher at and director of the Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting institute.

He began with a brief introduction to the traditional art of Thangka painting and went on to explain the urgent needs and reasons behind setting up such an institute.

“It is vital to know about the origins and history of traditional Thangka painting," he said. We need to know how and where the painting comes from - Its background and symbolism. It is also equally important to know, once the painting is created, where it is going - how to display and sell it correctly.”

Mr Kalsang explained that Thangka painting has a history that is deep and stretches across many generations. Each painting has many layers. True Thangka painting is not done commercially to produce large quantities that lack quality, he said, adding that each painting needs to be nothing short of perfection, there are rules to even selling and displaying such paintings, and that Thangka painting comes with great responsibilities.

Mr Kalsang talked about incidents in Tibet in which Thangka paintings, which were not up

to the mark, were created and sold. “The creation and selling of such paintings is a result of insufficient knowledge on the creator’s behalf. It is the lack of advice they have on the rules and traditions of this art form.”

He then spoke about the 20 or more trainees at the institute. “Their experience in the field stretches from three years to 20. They all love to paint Thangkas and hopefully they will become professionals at it.”

Mr Kalsang ended his speech by stating that at the institute they have tried to embody the three basic principles of the 14th Kashag— Unity, Innovation and Self-reliance.

Dr Lobsang Sangay then picked up where Mr Kalsang left off, saying, “It is true that the Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting is based along the lines of the three principles of the Kashag.

“All the trainees of the institute come from the three traditional provinces of Tibet. This shows unity. The institute takes this form of painting in a new direction while still staying true to its roots, displaying innovation. And lastly, self-reliance is demonstrated through the fact that, each of the trainees here can stand on their own two feet and look after themselves with taking up this age-old art form. “ The last speaker of the day was Khenpo Sonam Tenphel. He stressed that it was the responsibility of all such institutes to preserve and develop Thangka painting. On behalf of the Tibetan Parliament, he expressed great admiration towards Mr Kalsang for starting this endeavour.“Kalsang Dhamchoe must be proud of himself," he said. "He has helped create an avenue to spread information about this traditional art form, with setting up the Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting. I hope all gathered here will share what they have heard today about the need to preserve this form of art.”

The night ended with a dinner for all the attendees.

Solidarity Vigil in Memory of Teenage Self-Immolators in Tibet

Tibetan people and supporters gathered at the Main Square in Mcleod Ganj in solidarity for a candlelight vigil to commemorate the recent loss of yet another two self-immolators.

By Thu Flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala (29 August, 2012): Tibetan people and supporters gathered at the Main Square in Mcleod Ganj in solidarity for a candlelight vigil to commemorate the recent loss of yet another two self-immolators.

On Monday morning of 27, August 2012, two Tibetans set themselves aflame in Ngaba County, north-eastern Tibet (Chinese: Aba-Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province) to protest Chinese authority in their homeland. The two young teenagers, 18-year old monk from Kirti Monastery, Lobsang Kalsang, and 17-year old former monk from the same monastery, Dhamchoe,

emerged engulfed in flames while shouting protest slogans before they collapsed after taking about twenty steps.

The event, organized by Regional Tibetan Youth Congress and Regional Tibetan Women Association, started at the Main Square and ended at the Tibetan Museum located in HH the Dalai Lama Temple. An estimated 200 people attended the event, all of whom were holding candles while bowing to show respect for the Tibetan self-immolators.

Shortly after, a few people gave speeches in front of the hero and heroine statues in the Tibetan Museum.

"They must listen to the Tibetan reasons as to why they are setting themselves on fire...It is the fail policies of Chinese government. It is the brutality of these policies in targeting the life, culture, and the whole race of Tibetan people. These are the only option left because there is no sense of democracy and freedom for people to express their opinions and frustrations. Instead of coming down on the people with violent and oppression, Chinese government must find a way to talk to Tibetan people and find a real solution," said Tenzin Tsundu, former president of Regional Tibetan Youth Congress.

Including the recent incidents of the twin selfimmolation, 51 people have ignited themselves on fire to protest against Chinese oppressive policies as well as advocating for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Dharamshala: Last Wednesday, September 5, the Core Group for Tibetan Cause joined the ‘Global Tibet Advocacy Action', a global effort to build pressure on world governments by submitting a memorandum to the Foreign Affairs Minister to call for greater multi-lateral action on China over Tibet.

Due to the inadequate international response over the Tibet crisis, Pro Tibet campaigners have started to criticise world governments. They have thus launched a campaign, the ‘Global Tibet Advocacy Action', to seek greater multilateral action by international governments over the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet.

In a coordinated action, advocates across the world are pressing Foreign Ministries to act for Tibet in conjunction with other governments during the forthcoming United Nations Human Rights Council and General Assembly, both of which meet in September.International Tibet Network's Asia regional office assisted in coordinating this campaign.Dr NK Trikha, National Convener of the Core Group for Tibetan Cause expressed his disappointment with the international community for failing to protect Tibetan people from gross human rights violation."Previous inaction by world governments and international bodies has allowed the crisis in Tibet to worsen with now more than 50 individuals choosing to set light to themselves in protest against Beijing's harsh rule." Dr Trikha also stated that India needs "to urgently undertake stronger, more coordinated, multi-lateral action on Tibet and seek a long overdue solution to this spiralling tragedy."

There was a substantial boost in August of calls for more visible multi-lateral action on the situation in Tibet, including a letter to Hillary Clinton from two US Congressmen. The letter suggested the US government host an international conference on Tibet, convene periodic public meetings on Tibet and hold discussions with other governments during the UN GeneralAssembly about setting up a contact group.Before submitting the memorandum to the External Affairs Ministry, the Core Group members met with six members of the parliamentary

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

Core Group for Tibetan Cause Joins the ‘Global Tibet Advocacy Action’

Members of Core Group Delhi team meeting with Shri Inder Singh Namdhari, Parliamentary Standing Committee member on Foreign affairs at his residence on Monday, 3rd September, 2012. From Left: Dr. Manoj Kumar, National Organizing Secretary,ITFS; Shri Vijay Kranti, National Co-Convener, Core Group; Shri Inder Singh Namdhari, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Dr.N.K.Trikha, National Convener, Core Group; Tenzin Paljor, ITCO From back left: Mr. Tenzin Jigdal, SFT India; Mr. Tsering Choedup, International Tibet Network's Asia Regional Coordinator.Photo:International Tibet Network

standing committee on External Affairs. They requested for their support in the Tibet issue and the need for a multi-lateral action in the forthcoming committee meeting with the External Affairs Ministry. They also requested parliamentarians to invite Kalon Tripa Dr. Lobsang Sangay to the committee to discuss the triangular relations between India, Tibet & China.Referring to the recent string of self-immolations, Mr Vijay Kranti, National Co-convener of the Core Group for Tibetan Cause said that although it is a sad event, it strongly reveals the real truth about the

Tibetan situation."It proves that Tibetan's desire for freedom, their deep faith in His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the commitment of the people of Cholka Sum to see Tibet free once again. Since most of these self-immolations have happened outside TAR, it clearly exposes the Chinese falsehood that only TAR is Tibet."

In the last twelve months there have been as many as 48 self-immolations inside Tibet, with about seven alone in the month of August 2012. Up until now 51 such protests have occurred, of which at least 42 are confirmed dead.

TYC Hunger Strike in Limbo; Indian Authorities Detain Major Participants

(From right to left) TYC Organisational Secretary Penpa Tsering, Vice President Dhondup Lhadar, and Cultural Secretary Jigme Sholpa begin their indefinite hunger strike in New Delhi on 3 September 2012.

By Amanda Peters, Tibet Post

Dharamshala: September 3 marked the first day of the indefinite hunger strike organized by the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) in New Delhi. They said that it was planned in “solidarity with the self-immolators inside Tibet and to appeal for immediate international intervention” with regards to the deteriorating human rights crisis in Tibet.

Three TYC Central Executive members took part in the strike; Vice President, Dhondup Lhadar, Organizational Secretary, Penpa Tsering and Cultural Secretary, Jigme Shoipa. It was scheduled to start at 10:00 am IST. However, due to police presence it finally kicked off at 12:00 pm IST. In a release, TYC said that previously organized hunger strikes in April 2011 at Jantar Mantar, Delhi and February 2012 outside the UN Headquarters, New York, were called off after the European Parliament committed to support the peaceful struggle against the oppressive Chinese government and promised to keep the Tibet issue high on their agenda. In the second instance, the strike was called off when representatives of the UN SecretaryGeneral, Ban-Ki-Moon, handed over a letter of assurance signed by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay.

“Since none of the promises have been put into action, and the alarming rise of the number of self-immolations inside Tibet is a huge cause for concern for everyone, TYC decided to launch another hunger strike and show the willingness to sacrifice until the world bodies keep their promises,” said the hunger strikers.With the launch of this hunger strike, TYC hopes to appeal to the EU, UN, world governments and NGOs to immediately fulfill the

promises made by them during the earlier TYC hunger strikes through a multilateral approach and demand that China give immediate access to governments, international organizations and the media to travel in Tibet to learn about the true situation and aspirations of the local Tibetans. Lastly, to release Tibetan prisoners of conscience including The Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, and Tulku Tenzin Delek, and stop the witch hunts in Tibet that target public intellectuals, religious leaders, poets, musicians and singers and artists.Tibetans from all over, especially students, planned to take part in the strike. When the event finally began two hours later, Tenzin Norsang, TYC Joint Secretary explained the reason for the delay was the police’s preventive measures of barring and surrounding major areas, thus stopping a large number of Tibetans from participating.The former chief minister of the Indian state of Uttrakhand, which shares borders with Tibet, assured the Tibetans that as long as the Brahmaputra River flows down form Tibet to India, “The cause of Tibet will be upheld and truth shall prevail.” Also present were Aasha Reddy, an ardent supporter of Tibet and Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, member of Tibetan parliament.

Tsewang Rigzin, President of TYC, called on Tibetans in exile to heed to the sacrifices and aspirations of Tibetans in Tibet and take active participation in the campaigns being led by exile groups. He also urged US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, to raise the issue of Tibet with Chinese leaders during her two-day Beijing visit beginning on August 4.TYC Vice-President Dhondup Lhadar, who fasted for the second time, said that fasting was “one of

the most effective means of non-violent protests.” Hunger striker, Jigme Shoipa shared that it is “his turn (now) to make the sacrifice and is (thus) here for the indefinite hunger strike.”However, later in the day reports came in that the three Tibetan hunger strikers were detained by Indian authorities. They were forcibly removed from Jantar Mantar, sometime around 8:30 pm IST. The police cited due to the Chinese Defence Minister, Liang Guanglie, visit to India, for security reasons they were begin detained at the Connaught Place police station.

Authorities reinforced that the three would be released in the morning.“Despite our repeated appeals, the police maintained that the hunger strike was a security risk to the on-going visit by the Chinese Defence Minister,” Norsang said.

Liang Guanglie arrived in India on Sunday, September 2, on a four-day visit from Sri Lanka with a 23-member delegation.

It is uncertain whether the fast will continue, although the hunger strikers and TYC were adamant about the protest going on.The first day of the strike ended with a protest march against the visit of Liang Guanglie to India.

TYC has also called for a ‘Global Day of Protest’ on September 18 to appeal to the UN to “immediately intervene and pressure China to douse the fiery protests inside Tibet.”

The Tibetan Youth Congress also urged Tibetans and supporters to take part in a ‘Global Day of Action’ on September 24 by contacting the UN, EU, world leaders and parliamentarians through email, phone and fax for concrete support to resolve the issue of Tibet.

TPI NEWS

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

Tensions on an Increasing Rise in Tibet as Basic Rights are Violated

TIBET

The Tibet Post International

9

Five Monks Detained in Crackdowns at Zilkar Monastery of Tibet

By YC. Dhardhowa, Tibet Post International

By Amanda Peters,The Tibet Post International.

Dharmashala: It was 18 June 2012, when 35 year old Tibetan monk, Tansel, was arrested by the Chinese police. Further details of his arrest or whereabouts still remain unclear. Due to the lack of information about his detention Tansel’s mother has passed away. Now only his 80 year old father remains, waiting for any information about his son.

Tansel came from Nynlong Village of Sartha County in Karze province. Soon after his arrest, the police raided his home and confiscated many of his books and CDs. In another story reported by Radio Free Asia (RFS), a monk named Kalsang Gyatso was taken into custody on August 28, in Tsud County. No further details about his arrest are available at the moment.

Kalsang is a 27 years old native from Bora Village, Sangchu County of Kansu province.

The report also said that since 2008 the Chinese government has stationed a large number of army and police personnel in all corners of the three Tibetan regions.

This has resulted in restricting movements of

the locals in the area. According to Chinese authorities, Chamdo , the center of Kham region, has many monasteries that are under constant surveillance. The police patrol the area around the monasteries and record all the comings and goings of all the monks.

On 1 September 2012, monks from U-Tsang region were compelled to stay in their monasteries and not allowed to travel to Amdo and other regions.

To be granted permission to leave, they had to possess four to five documents that were issued by the regional and county offices.

These documents allowed them to move around the region only for fifteen days.

If they were not back home within this time frame, they would be deemed as “hindrances to national security.”

Under these circumstances monks, nuns and laymen find it very difficult to live and travel inside Tibet. With the passing of each day, the human rights situation continues to deteriorate resulting in amplified tension and unrest in the region.

Tibetan Monk Disappears Amid Aftermath of Re-Education Programmes

Jamyang Tenzin 30 Year old monk from Lithang Monastery of Lithang county.

By Thu Flower & Samuel Ivor

Dharamshala: On 3rd Sept, 2007, the Chinese government held a re-education movement in Lithang County, titled: ‘Love Country, Love Religion” – try to re-educate Tibetan people and inform them about the Government. At the same time, they had a six-point document that all the villagers had to sign.

During that time, Jamyang Tenzin; a Monk of Yonru Geyden Rabgaylhing Monastery in Lithang County, (Kham) told officials that the Chinese government’s words about giving money to the poor and helping Tibetan people are just propaganda.

He stated that in reality, local Tibetans are getting absolutely nothing from the government and that it was all just for show.

He said, if Tibetan people cannot wear a Dalai Lama picture, or have His photograph in their house, where is the religious freedom? He also stated that on 1 August, 2007, one Tibetan nomad named Ronggye Adak was arrested by Chinese police for protesting and Jamyang Tenzin demanded a reason for his arrest.

T h e r e a f t e r, h e w a s a r r e s t e d b y C h i n e s e officials and was in prison for 3 years.

During his detainment, he endured torture and was diagnosed with kidney damage after his release. He came out of prison mentally unstable. After he was released, he received

Ti b e t a n m e d i c i n e i n A m d o f r o m h i g h l y regarded Tibetan doctors, and took it 3 months for his condition to improve. When he returned home, he organized many prayer meetings in the village and engaged in other altruistic acts for the Tibetan people.

On 28 August, 2012, there was a prayer meeting in Lithang Monastery and he attended the meeting. During his presence at the meeting, Chinese officials came to his house and it without his consent. Thereafter, Jamyang Te n z i n d i s a p p e a r e d m y s t e r i o u s l y s o t h e villagers went to the county officials to ask them about his whereabouts. Officials responded that he was arrested. In turn local monks demanded a reason for his arrest – officials responded that was unnecessary and that they had no time to explain his arrest at the time.

It is currently unclear as to Jamyang Tenzin’s whereabouts or of his condition.

Tenzin is 30 yrs old, from Sakor Village, Lithang County, Kham Region. His father is Thingly Tsering, his mother, Tashi Dolma.

Before the 2007 arrest, he studied in Gaden Monastery in South India. Later, in Tibet on his return from India, he was arrested and transferred to seven different prisons.

Dharamshala: Chinese authorities arbitrarily arrested five Buddhist monks during raid at Nyatso Zilkar Monastery in Kyegudho County in Kham region of eastern Tibet and situation at the monastery still remains tense as hundreds of armed Chinese military forces and police were deployed.

"Before the incident, the local Chinese government officials of Tridu county and Gatoe Yultso town told the working officials at Zilkar Monastery, that some officials will visit the monastery, to handle the government houses being built for earthquake survivors," sources from inside Tibet said.

But, around 10-am, (Tibet Time), Over sixty buses and cars load of over two hundred armed Chinese security forces and police arrived, they have soon surrounded the Monastery and immediately started raiding monks' residences. The authorities detained five monks and took away their computer, printer, CDs and so on, Sangyal, a Tibetan from Kyegudho, currently living in South India told TPI. According to a report received by the Dharamshala based exile independent media 'The Tibet Post International' (TPI), Sonam Sherab, 45, son of Tsondue Dhonden from Gyachen village, Lobsang Jinpa, 30, son of Tagyal and Pema Tso (mother) from Geshing village, Tsultrim Kalsang, 25, son of Athup and Dolkar from Khar-rong village, Ngawang Monlam, 30, son of Samyag and Tsewang Pema from Geshing village, and Sonam Yignyen, 44, son of Tsondue Loden and Wangmo Dolma, were detained by security personnel on 1 September 2012 from their residence at Gyalrong Tsodun Monastery. Their current condition and whereabouts remain unknown.

"Several monks have been severely beaten up who had tried to complain about the detaining and beating of their colleagues," sources added.

"According to local people near the monastery, over sixty military vehicles load of over two

By Central Tibetan Administration Media

Dharamshala: The 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile convened its 4th session Friday, September 14. It was held in Dharamshala, India, the heart of Tibetans in exile.

At the beginning of the session the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, Mr Penpa Tsering spoke about the Tibetan self-immolations as well as current tense situation in Tibet.

"Since March 2009, there have been 51 cases of Tibetans setting themselves on fire. Of them, 41 are confirmed dead." He admitted that these numbers may not be accurate, due to the lack of details available about such incidences.

In his opening address, Mr Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, said over 51 Tibetans have set themselves on fire in Tibet and their family members are living under an extremely difficult situation.

He said the Chinese government, instead of looking into real causes as to why Tibetans are setting themselves on fire, has exacerbated the crisis in Tibet by stepping up military crackdown in the Tibetan areas. "So, a motion will be tabled on the first day of this session to express our solidarity with our brethren who are continuously suffering the under the Chinese government's repressive rule," he added.

He said given the gravity of the situation in Tibet, the entire first day of this parliament session will be kept for deliberation on the Chinese government's policies in Tibet and the developing situation in Tibet.

Speaker Penpa Tsering spoke about the upcoming special general meeting of Tibetans from 22-28 September, and the efforts made the Kashag and the Parliament to garner international community's support to end the Chinese government's repression in Tibet. "We need to strengthen our campaigns as no concrete action has come from the international community in view of the urgency of the situation in Tibet," he added.

He said there is no clarity on how the new Chinese leadership will handle the crisis in Tibet, adding that in order to resolve the issue of Tibet through dialogue with the Chinese government, Tibetans in exile must sustain our movement to draw the world attention to the plight of Tibetans in Tibet.

Commending the campaigns carried out by the Tibetans such as the ongoing flame of truth relay across the world, the Speaker urged Tibetans to actively participate in such movements.

He said this session will debate on the annual work report of the Kashag and the review report by the standing committee. The last day of the session will be kept for Kashag's statement and response to questions, he said.Speaker Penpa Tsering underlined

The five Tibetans monks who are being detained by the Chinese authorities are as follows; 1-Sonam Sherab, 45, 2Tsultrim Kalsang-25, 3-Ngawang Monlam-30 4-Lobsang Jinpa-30 and 5-Sonam Yignyen-44. Photo: TPI

hundred armed Chinese security forces and police passed through that on Saturday morning headed for the Zilkar Monastery," the sources said.

"It is not about the government built houses for earthquake survivors, the four monks' arrest was also as part of a previously planned military crackdowns and raid," he added.

Sonam Sherab was arrested for Photographing Chinese armed police and forces when they first arrived. However, it is not clear on what charges the four other Tibetan monks were detained and there is no information on the locations of their detention.

Nyatso-Silkar-Monastery-Kham-Tibet2012Security presence and surveillance have been stepped up. The authorities also allegedly cut off the power supply and t e l e p h o n e c o n n e c t i o n o f t h e m o n a s t e r y,

sources from Tibet continued.

In June, 2012, Ngawang Norpel, 22, and Tenzin Khedup, 24, died in self-immolation in Tridu County, Kyegundho, where five tibetan monks were detained.

In February this year, three Tibetan monks from the Zilkar monastery- Sonam Gewa, Lobsang Samten, and Lobsang Nyima were arrested. Sources said, it is widely suspected that the Tibetan monks were arbitrarily detained in connection with the recent selfimmolations and mass protests that occurred in the region.

Sangyal said that the Zilkar Monastery in Kham region has a long history, currently introduce hundreds of students to the methods and skills involved in Tibetan language and to develop their ability to keep cultural identity within the field of Buddhist Studies.

15th Tibetan Parliament's 4th Session Begins Amid Crisis in Tibet

Speaker Penpa Tsering addressing the opening session of the Tibetan Parliament at the Kashag auditorium in Dharamsala on 14 September 2012/Photo/Tenzin Norbu/Parliamentary Secretariat

the responsibility of the Tibetan Parliament to respond to baseless claims made by a small group of Tibetans causing distress to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He said the Tibetan Parliament has the responsibility to pre-empt such things from happening again as the matter is concerned with the democratisation of the Tibetan polity.

"Instead of doing their duties, a small group of Tibetans have engaged in making groundless claims on matters concerning the general meeting, special parliament session and His Holiness the Dalai Lama's devolution of political authority to the democratically-elected CTA leadership, to create discord in the community. Such people are concerned only with their opinion whenever the parliament tried to clarify the matter," he said.

"Though His Holiness the Dalai Lama has initiated the recent move to further democratise the Tibetan polity, it was ultimately the parliament which approved the final decision. So the responsibility lies with the parliament to prevent things which cause distress to His Holiness. Not only the speaker but the entire parliamentarians and the administration must act to deal with such matter. It is very important that the parliamentarians should make clear position mandated by the general public during their official visits to Tibetan settlements and communities. But if you expressed own personal views, then you are not carrying out your responsibilities of being a parliamentarian," he said.

He underlined that the parliament should pledge to prevent things which could bring distress to His Holiness the Dalai Lama in future, adding the Kashag, Parliament and the NGOs have equal responsibilities to deal with such matter.

He also emphasised that importance of raising awareness and understanding among the general public on the issue, failing which will cause disagreement between us and those who are making the baseless statements.He said His Holiness the Dalai Lama takes every decision to carry out his visions only after long-term consideration and discussion. Tibetan public should understand that it is wrong to speak out without understanding the reasons behind His Holiness's initiatives, he added.

He said the media plays a very important role in disseminating information in our society, but it can also become a medium to spread discord within the community. He said some people write under pseudonyms articles and comments in websites to destablise the community and denigrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama. It is of utmost importance for those managing the news websites to properly verify the contents of and intentions behind such articles and comments, he added.The Parliament then deliberated on a resolution expressing solidarity with the Tibetans living inside Tibet.Two condolence resolutions were passed to mourn the sad demise of former speaker Kasur Alak Jigme Thinley Lhundup and Mr Nyisang, a former parliamentarian.

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The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

Tibet Adds Another "Disappearance" Case to Its Already Infinite List

WORLD PEACE

15 September, 2012 Dharamshala

Different Approaches Needed to Achieve Inner Peace: His Holiness

LobsangRabten, a 33 year old official of KirtiTsodun Monastery'sreligious management office. He has not been seen since his arrest on August 19.

By Amanda Peters,The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: Reports coming out of Tibet said that a monk official from Kirti Tsodun Monastery, in the highly volatile Ngaba region, has vanished since he was picked up by police on the night of August 19.

Locals and monastery residents have searched high and low for Lobsang Rabten, a 33 year old official of the monastery's religious management office.

Gyalrong Tsodun Kirti Monastery is located about 85 km from Barkham County, Ngaba region in north-eastern Tibet.

There has been talk that Lobsang Rabten is being detained at an undisclosed location in Barkham County in Ngaba region. However, his health condition or the charges for his arrest still remain a mystery.

Two days prior to Rabten's arrest, an 18-yearold monk of the monastery, Lobsang Lozin, self- immolated to protest against China's rule in Tibet.

Meanwhile, on August 14 and 17, two monks of Kirti monastery - Lobsang Sangay, 30, and Lobsang Kunchok, 40, - were arbitrarily detained on unknown charges. Their

whereabouts and well-being still remain unclear.The coordinator of Tibetan issues in K i r t i M o n a s t e r y, D h a r a m s h a l a , K a n y a k Tsering, said, "On the afternoon of August 27, two law enforcement Lamas and a supervisor of Kriti Tsodun Monastery attended a meeting in Ngaba County City. However, at this moment the agenda of the meeting is unclear."

"To prevent the news and photo rumours about the self-immolations from getting out, authorities immediately sealed off microcommunication channels. Telephones, mobile phones and use of Wechat services were temporarily suspended. However, everything was back to normal by the morning of August 28."

The "disappearance" cases continue to mount in Tibet. Locals, monks and nuns that stage peaceful protests are being branded by China as "threats to national security" or "terrorists" without any accurate proof. They are then arrested, beaten and tortured in prison. After being put through extreme physical and mental trauma, they finally break and become complete vegetables.

Indefinite Hunger Strike Continued at the EU Office in Delhi

TYC members walking toward EU office in New Delhi, the capital of India, on September, 2012. Photo: TPI

By Thu flower, The Tibet Post International.

Dharamshala: 13 September, 2012. On the 11th day of the Indefinite Hunger Strike, Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) and demonstrators marched towards the Delegation Office of the European Union in New Delhi to inform them about the dire situation in Tibet and appeal for support from the union.

Unlike the demonstration that took place at the UN Information Centre the day before, which was marked by the presence of young universities students, the 11th day campaign was peacefully carried out by TYC and Tibetan elders. To display the non-violent nature of the event, everyone who was involved carried a flower and wore traditional scarf. By doing so, the campaigners hoped to send the message to the European Union that they are peacefully requesting for the long due assistance with the worsening conditions in Tibet.

Earlier on April, 2011, the Indefinite Hunger Strike was promptly called off due to the EU's written promises to take action to improve the situation in Tibet. Up until today, not much has been done while the oppression in Tibet continued to escalate on a day to day basis.

And thus, the hunger strike resumed once again from 3 September, 2012, but this time the strikers will not stop until concrete actions can be seen taken by the EU.

The march began at the Khan market and going forward to the EU Delegation Office. Upon reaching the office, an EU official emerged and escorted TYC President, Tsewang Rigzin and Joint-Secretrary, Tenzing Norsang into the building to meet EU representative, Mr. Ed Marshall. Subsequently, TYC representative had a long discussion with the EU official about the dilemmas in Tibet, as well as last year's pending pledge by the EU to address those problems. Mr. Marshall assured the members that the EU "have been supporting the Tibetan cause so far and will definitely continue doing so." In addition, he will forward the memorandums of Tibetan demands to EU President, Martin Suhulz for him to look over.

The TYC President emerged from the discussion to address the gatherings, including the media. He first thanked everyone who took part at the campaign, making it possible to hand over the memorandums to the EU officials. Furthermore, he updated the crowd about EU's willingness to assist the Tibetan cause and he hope that they will hold Chinese government accountable for their human rights violations. Mr. Tsewang Rigzin also mentioned that the event is not to protest the EU, but to appeal to them.

Many visited the hunger strikers, including current Member of Parliament of Tibetan government in Exile, Choekyong Wangchuk and Welfare Officer of Samyeling Tibetan settlement. One of the visitors, named Mr. Vijay Kranti, who has been a firm supporter of the Tibetan cause for the last 30 years expressed in his own words -" I stand by TYC and the brave hunger strikers in their struggle for the freedom of Tibet and people of Tibet.

TYC observes my respect for being an honest and courageous organization who is the best representative of people of Tibet."

An estimated 500 North East students were at the event for their own human rights cause, but show just as much enthusiasm for the Tibetan cause. They gathered around the table, got in line to retrieved pamphlets, and signed their signature in the campaign book.

It was a final encouraging sign of the evening.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and former President of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, during the Inaugural Session of the World Meeting for Peace and Harmony in New Delhi, India, on September 11, 2012. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

By YC. Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama took part in an all-faith prayer meeting on September 12, and inaugurated the World Meet for Peace and Harmony in Indian capital New Delhi. During his four-day visit, he also addressed the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders conference.

"I am grateful for all our religious traditions," His Holiness told the prayer meeting, "because, despite their differing philosophical views, they all convey the same message of love and compassion and counsel us to live a simple life. In a world of seven billion human beings with different ways of life, these different traditions are necessary for humanity.

Realistically speaking, we need these different approaches to achieve inner peace and peace in the community."

He went on to say that, while prayer is good on a personal level, he has come to the conclusion that it is not always effective in the wider world - that violence and war persist in many places and prayer seems insufficient to stop it. "What we need to do is to take action," he said. He also advised that, "If religious teaching remains in a book that we only read occasionally, while we lead our lives in another direction, there is something wrong and it does not serve much purpose."

His Holiness also praised India for its longstanding tradition of religious harmony, saying, "Occasional outbreaks of religious friction may take place, but these are understandable and of minor significance compared to the example of harmony and respect that otherwise prevails."

The World Meet for Peace and Harmony formed part of the Ramakrishna Mission's celebrations of the impending 150th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's birth. Former of Indian president, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, was chief guest at the inaugural session.

Guest of honour Srimat Swami Smaranananda Maharaj was unable to attend for health reasons and was represented by Swami Vagishananda, who said that, although we have a dream of peace and harmony, division persists. He quoted Swami Vivekananda, saying, "If you want peace of mind, don't find fault with others."

His Holiness expressed his admiration for his friend Dr AJP Abdul Kalam, saying, "He comes from a Muslim family, trained as scientist and became president of the most populous democratic country in the world - in fact the country where the most sophisticated philosophical views have developed."

He continued, "As I mentioned earlier, all the world's religions are found in this country - both homegrown religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism and others from outside like Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Zoroastrianism and BahĂĄ'Ă­. They all flourish and live together in harmony, so in India this harmony is not just an idea or an aspiration, but a reality.

"Swami Vivekananda is no longer with us, but the spirit of what he achieved is alive and growing. He had great foresight and I feel I am a follower, trying to implement his dream of creating inter-religious

harmony in the world. However, while respecting Swami-ji's vision, I would like to say something about the Parliament of World Religions, which I have attended in Cape Town and Melbourne. I think there is a risk of these meetings just becoming occasions for religious leaders to exchange calling cards. I feel we need to make more effort if we are to actively foster harmony among our traditions. In Melbourne I said that effects come from actions not mere talk.

"As a Buddhist monk, I pray, and it is of some help for my own peace of mind, but as for world peace, it has little effect. A couple of years ago in Patna I was invited to attend the inauguration of a Buddhist park, during which the chief minister asked that, by the Buddha's blessings, his state might prosper.

"When my turn came to speak, I said that if the state's prosperity depended on the Buddha's blessings it should have happened long ago and that what was really needed was for a capable chief minister to take action. Action is the meaning of karma, while prayer is a little like wishful thinking.

For example, climate change is a reality that I think probably cannot be affected by prayer."

His Holiness commended the Ramakrishna Mission's emphasis on education, saying it is the way to achieve far-reaching results and the proper way to promote compassion and tolerance in society.

"Compassion and peace of mind bring a sense of confidence that reduce stress and anxiety," he said, "whereas anger and hatred come from frustration and undermine our sense of trust."

His Holiness described many of our problems as being of our own creation. "Why? Because of ignorance. Education, however, is the instrument that increases our ability to employ our own intelligence.

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His Holiness also asked the Ramakrishna Mission to consider how to introduce moral ethics into the modern curriculum. He said he thought it was possible to talk about warm-heartedness without needing to talk about God or Buddha.

Finally, he mentioned the increasing gap between rich and poor and the problem of corruption, saying, "When so many people are still poor, how can you let corruption go on? In this country people are very religious minded...and yet in their daily lives it seems to make little difference when it comes to issues like corruption. If you believe in God and karma, how can you not care when this kind of behaviour goes on? If I have been too frank today, or have offended anyone with what I've said, I apologise."

During his address to the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders, His Holiness observed that as human beings we are all the same, physically, mentally and emotionally.

"Violence seems to be part of human history," he said, "but it does not arise because of the things that unite us. Rather it arises because we make too much of the differences between us. These become exaggerated to the point where we divide people into "them" and "us," and it is this division that leads to bullying, cheating, lying and war."

On September 14, during his four-day visit to Dehradun, His Holiness will visit local monasteries and other institutions in Norling Park, Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement, and teach the first chapter of Nagarjuna's Precious Garland.

On September 17, he will participate in the celebrations for the 50th founding anniversary the Tibetan Homes Foundation in Happy Valley, Mussoorie.

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Advicer Advicer Editor in Chief Chinese Editor Project Manager Tibetan Editor Assistant Editor Circular Publisher Editor, Tibet Post Europe Designer

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Mr. Thomas Keimel Dr. Vincent Brucel Mr. YC. Dhardhowa Ms. Keary Huang Mathew Singh Toor Mr. Sangay Dorjee Ms. Pema Tso Ven Phuntsok Dhondup Mr. Sonam Sangay Mr. James Dunn Ms. Pema Tso

Contributors for this Editon

Keary Huang Mathew Singh Toor Amanda Peters Samuel Ivor Thu Flower Ruta Vilkaite YC. Dhardhowa Sangay Dorjee Pema Tso

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