India Stands Firm with Dalai Lama
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, a practicing Buddhist, stated on Thursday that the decision regarding the Dalai Lama’s successor lies solely with the established institution and His Holiness himself. “Nobody else has the right to decide it except him and the conventions in place,” Rijiju declared while addressing the media.
Speaking on the sidelines of the upcoming 90th birthday celebration of the Tibetan spiritual leader in Dharamshala on July 6, Rijiju affirmed India’s recognition of the Dalai Lama as “the most important and defining institution for Buddhists.”
China’s Controversial Claims
China recently reignited the controversy by asserting that any future Dalai Lama must be approved by Beijing. The Chinese foreign ministry insisted on the traditional “golden urn lot-drawing system” and central government approval. This claim was swiftly denounced by Tibetans and international observers as an infringement on religious freedom.
Dalai Lama Reaffirms His Decision
In a pre-recorded message released on July 2, the 14th Dalai Lama revealed that he had received numerous appeals, particularly from Tibetans inside Tibet, to continue the institution of the Dalai Lama. He announced that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, based in India, will be responsible for choosing his successor.
“I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue,” said the spiritual leader. The message signals his intent to keep the succession process within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, free from political interference.
India’s Broader Message
India’s firm stand sends a clear message to China and the global community. By emphasizing religious freedom and respecting spiritual traditions, India reinforces its commitment to democratic values and the rights of oppressed communities.
This comes amid broader Indo-China tensions over border disputes, trade frictions, and strategic competition in Asia. India’s support of the Dalai Lama could further deepen diplomatic friction but is expected to bolster India’s image as a defender of human rights and religious freedom.
Looking Ahead
As Dharamshala prepares to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, political and spiritual leaders from around the world are expected to send their greetings. India’s open endorsement of the Tibetan cause could galvanize more international support against authoritarian overreach.
For millions of Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama is not just a leader but a symbol of peace, resilience, and cultural identity. India’s support gives them renewed hope and sends a strong signal against forced control of religious institutions.
