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Former prisoner Topjor: My wish was and still is for a free Tibet

Our compassion needs to be active and involved: Karmapa Rinpoche Vol. 03, Issue 129, Print Issue 53, March 31, 2015

Struggle is much more than slogans: Former envoy

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B o d - K y i - Cha-Trin

A Voice For Tibet Bi-monthly

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Another Dalai Lama depend on wishes of Tibetans: His Holiness By Jane Cook: March 20, 2015

Lodi Gyari Rinpoche (left) and Paul Zwier(right) discuss China-Tibet relations. | Photo: Jeff Kim, Staff By Molly Lortie,: March 30, 2015

Georgia, U.S. ‘There will certainly be a major breakthrough,’ former envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, adding “The Tibet struggle is much more than slogans.” As part of the 15th annual Tibet Week held at Emory University, a panel was held Monday 23 March 2015, titled, The ChinaTibet Dialogue and its Implication for International Conflict Resolution: A Conversation with Lodi Gyari Rinpoche and Dr Paul Zwier, the Emory Wheel reported. Lodi Rinpoche was the former principle envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama who conducted nine rounds of high level talks with Chinese Leadership (2002-2010) and led an extensive behind the scene diplomatic effort to sustain the process, expand the channels of communication, build trust with Chinese leadership and maintain broad international interest in the dialogue process. He resigned from the post of lead negotiator on May 2012. P- 4 ...

TPiE passes resolution of gratitude to His Holiness

New Delhi – Chinese authorities interest would be more convincing if they found and recognised reincarnations of Mao and Deng before concerning themselves with the Dalai Lamas said His Holiness when speaking to US diplomats posted in eight countries who had gathered together in New Delhi for a workshop. “I often make clear my view that the USA is the leading nation of the free world. On one of my previous visits there, on the flight from Europe to America, I read a newspaper article that suggested the US economy was in decline, while the Chinese economy was on the rise,” he told them on Thursday, March 19, 2015. “I mentioned my concern about the effects this could have across the free world to President Obama. He told me not to worry, that the US economy was still stronger than some people make out and still stronger than the Chinese, which brought me some relief,” he added. “India too is very important as the world’s most populous democracy. It’s a complex country that has shown that living in religious harmony is a real possibility. Finally, Japan is Asia’s most industrialized democracy, he said. Adding, “Relations between these three countries are very important, which is not to cast aspersions on China. I believe China will eventually join the free world, but it may take some decades yet.” Answering questions he invited from the floor, His Holiness explained that while it seems that atheist Chinese communists seem more interested in his reincarnation than he is, their interest would be more convincing if they found and recognised Mao’s and Deng’s reincarnations before concerning themselves with the Dalai Lama’s. His Holiness also repeated what he said in 1969 that whether or not there is another Dalai Lama will depend on the wishes of the Tibetan people. Regarding the impact recent events have had on the Tibetan people and their traditions he said it was too early to say. He warned, however, against becoming too attached to your own tradition, which can lead to partisan divisions into ‘us’ and ‘them’, with destructive consequences. He asked his listeners to look at the conflict between Sunnis and Shias in several Muslim countries. Chuckling he remarked that even among Tibetan Buddhists there are such divisions, with the Shugden group accusing him of being a ‘false Dalai Lama’. He narrated how they had made a placard of a photograph of him

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with US Diplomats during their meeting in New Delhi, India on March 19. 2015. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL

wearing a Muslim skullcap, which they explained as showing he is a Muslim not a Buddhist. His own explanation is that he likes to visit other people’s places of worship and that it is properly respectful to cover your head when you visit a mosque. “I too mistakenly propitiated Dolgyal from 1951 until 1970. Then I undertook investigations that revealed that the 5th Dalai Lama had rejected it as an evil spirit. I realised that if I followed the Shugden peoples’ way, I would truly have been a ‘false Dalai Lama’, following practices contrary to the traditions of my predecessors,” he said. Asked about the balance between those who support the “Middle

Chinese authorities detain seven monks for spreading out information about Tibet

Ms Gang Lhamo, MP read the resolution during the 2nd day of the 9th session of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Dharamshala, India, on March 17, 2015. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu By Yangchen Dolma: March 17, 2015

Dharamshala – Members of the Tibetan Parliament in-Exile TPiE Tuesday, March 17 unanimously passed a resolution to express deep gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his tireless effort and great contribution to Tibet and the world. In the resolution, the parliament offered immense gratitude and heartfelt devotion to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on behalf of all Tibetans in Tibet and in Exile, for his tireless efforts for the promotion of human values and to his remarkable achievements for the cause of Tibet. The motion was moved by Ms Gang Lhamo on the floor of the house during the second day of the ongoing session and seconded by Mr Lobsang Yeshi. The resolution said the members pledged that in future under the guidance of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama they would strive more to do their best for the unity and happiness of the Tibetan people and P- 5 ...

Way Approach” (MWA) and advocates of complete Tibetan independence, His Holiness said that most young educated Tibetans who take a realistic view support the MWA, while others remain idealistic.

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State of CTA Finance is Good By Tibet Net: March 30, 2015

Dharamshala - The ninth session of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile concluded on 28 March. This Parliamentary session acted as the deciding the budget session for the financial year 2015-2016. The Tibetan Parliament approved a total of INR 2.018 billion for the budget (Ngon-tsi ma-ngul) for the Central Tibetan Administration and its various departments and offices for the coming financial year. The budget of the Central Tibetan Administration is formulated by the Department of Finance and submitted to the Tibetan parliament for review and approval. The parliament reviews the proposed budget in the budget session and duly approves it. “In the financial year 2013-2014, there was a surplus budget of INR 40 million. Similarly, in the last four years, at the end of every financial year, there was a balance budget with some surplus, indicating the sound financial state of the Central Tibetan Administration,” Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay, the democratically elected Tibetan political leader, said. “In the last six months only, the Central Tibetan Administration has raised around 50 crores for its rehabilitation and development projects,” he said, adding a thank you to all the donors of the various Tibetan projects in India and Nepal. The recently concluded session also approved some changes in the policy regarding the Green books, which dictate the P- 7 ... contribution rates for the Tibetan Voluntary fund

Memorial Tower to honor Tibetan self-immolators

Report on conditions of Tibetan immolation survivors By Molly Lortie: March 20, 2015

Berlin –A new report by the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) Deutschland entitled ‘self-immolation of Tibetan survivors: repression and disappearance,’ has documented the Chinese authority’s treatment of Tibetan survivors of self immolation. The ICT reports twenty cases in Tibet of people surviving their self-immolation, in addition to three cases in exile. The ICT reported that many of the survivors become victims of disappearances. While some have returned home, many families are unaware if their loved one is alive or dead, even years later. Often, the survivors are exposed to violent treatment in custody or receive inadequate medical care. These responses indicate that the priority of the Chinese authority is to suppress informational regarding the self-immolation, rather than to adequately care for the individual. Several survivors returned home years later with one or more limbs amputated, making it unclear whether the amputation was medically necessary due to wounds from the immolation, or if infection set in after proper medical care was neglected, making amputation necessary later. Some fear that amputation may be a form of punishment to the self-immolator. The ICT has called for the immediate disclosure of the whereabouts of those Tibetans who survived self-immolation and for full transparency in terms of their care and medical treatment.

Undated image of Namgyal Tsultrim, a monk from Sog Tsanden monastery, Sog County, eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: March 18, 2015

Dharamshala — Emerging reports coming out of Tibet say, seven Tibetan monks have been detained in eastern Tibet for allegedly “spreading out photographs and information dealing the issues of Tibet. Chinese authorities in Sog County (Ch: Suo, Naqu, Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region) Kham region of eastern Tibet on Saturday, March 14, arrested seven Tibetan monks for their role in allegedly sending out photographs and spreading information regarding with the grim situation in Tibet.” “The seven monks of Tsanden monastery in eastern Tibet have been identified as Namgyal Tsultrim, Lodoe Tenzin, Tsultrim Gojey, Tusltrim Namgyal, Thabkhey Lhundup, Jigme Tsultrim and Jigme Dakpa,” Ngawang Tharpa, a Tibetan living in Dharamshala told The Tibet Post International on Tuesday. The authorities did not explain the reason for their arrests

and their current whereabouts and condition is unavailable,” he said. adding that “the current condition and whereabouts of the arrested monks remain unknown.” Local Tibetans believe the seven were detained for allegedly “sending photographs and messages considered subversive to the Chinese government.” He said over 50 surveillance cameras have now been installed around the monastery to monitor the monks’ every move and tighteneded security with the heavy deployment of personel. Additionally, Tibetans have been issued with “identity cards with second-generation high-tech chips.” According to our previous report, under suspicion of maintaining contacts outside of the region, Namgyal Tsultrim was taken a prisoner on October 6, 2012. At first, he was placed in Nagchu prison and there for a short period after which he was moved to a detention centre and for a period of four months and twenty-eight days. P- 3...

During the opening ceremony of the Tibetan Uprising Tower and Martyrs Memorial in Caotun, Nantou, the center of Taiwan on March 14, 2015. Photo: TPI By Molly Lortie: March 19, 2015

Dharamshala – As people around the world commemorated Tibetan Uprising Day and showed their solidarity with Tibetans, the Tibetan Uprising Tower and Martyrs Memorial opening was held in Caotun, Nantou at the center of Taiwan on March 14, 2015. The tower was built to memorialize the many Tibetan selfimmolations that have occurred during the Tibetan struggle for freedom. The Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation organized the building of the tower. The foundation is a civil society who’s main goal is to advocate for a democratic and independent state of Taiwan. P- 5...

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TPI NEWS OPINION & VIEWS

March 31, 2015

Editorial:

Use of force is an entirely wrong method to employ: His Holiness

Reporters Without Borders’ 30 years of struggle for press freedom March 31, 2015

Dharamshala — Through Reporters Without Borders (RWB) during the past three decades, thousands of people around the world have dedicated their lives to the struggle for freedom, justice and equality and have served the world diligently since 1985. RWB, known as a great “Mediawatchdog,” maintaining a strong voice for justice of expression, came into existence exactly 37 years after the declaration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We’re proud that RWB is known as one of the greatest fighters of all time for freedom of expression around the world. Its not only actively involved in promoting and protecting human rights, freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, but it also has worked tirelessly to spread the word about freedom of press - including countless signed petitions, participation in protests, published books, submitted pictures and sent notes to show solidarity and to speak out as a voice for the voiceless to urge the repressive governments to release the imprisoned journalists, bloggers, writers and all other prisoners of conscience, and to repeal all laws that curtail human rights and freedom of press. “If Reporters Without Borders is recognized and respected throughout the world, it’s partly and above all because of your commitment and your tireless work in the field. You are at the heart of our organization and some of you have been there for many years.” When I saw the message from RWB, I was so proud and touched for what we have been working towards. Not because RWB is famous, but because we share those democratic values and principles as a very strong common bond. In the life of an individual, a generation seems quite a long time, but in the context of the greater press freedom cause, 30 years or so is not very long. I was a 9-year old Tibetan boy when I became a refugee in the same year that RWB was founded, in 1985. After 30 years, it has now come to symbolise it’s own dedication to defending and furthering press freedom as the essential corollary of freedom of expression. Our struggle for freedom of press can be as great as we want it to be since we believe in truth and justice. Nonviolence will prevail if we believe in ourself and have the courage, the determination, the dedication, the competitive drive and if we are willing to sacrifice the little things like short-term interests and stand up for universal principles that the free world should uphold. On behalf of all Tibetan people in Tibet who are still unable to express themselves freely without fear, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all people who have worked for the organisation- including its current and former members for their outstanding contribution in safeguarding and promoting freedom of information and press in many countries, including Tibet and China, specially standing up for universal principles. On behalf of all those I rise today to honor one of the most prominent advocates of our time-Reporters Sans Frontiers (RSF) a France-based international non-profit, non-governmental organization that promotes and defends freedom of information and freedom of the press as it is celebrating its 30th anniversary, on May 3, World Press Freedom Day. RSF is an international NGO with whom I have worked as a Tibetan Correspondent for the past nearly ten years. It is my pleasure to honor the international organization that promotes and defends freedom of information and freedom of the press and I wish RSF all the best and success in its future endeavors. In 2014, Jigme Gyatso, a Buddhist monk from Tibet was selected among the “100 Information Heroes” of the RSF on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day. Most recently, the RSF has selected The Tibet Post among the nine websites that are banned in 11 countries, including China, allowing people there to see them, which has been widely covered in international media, including BBC- hailed a great win over censorship and propaganda and good news for people who hate bad news. This was among the few most recent victories of the last 30 years.

Further, the RSF has been a leading voice throughout the world for human rights and freedom of speech, including it’s tireless efforts in those countries where freedom of speech is systematically denied and severely violated. Tibet is one of the few countries where not only religious expression is suppressed, but those who cross political and social red lines surrounding faith are systematically tortured and detained. There have been arrests of those involved in writing books about Tibet, posted content relating to Tibet or spoke out in other’s defense. In addition, most of the Tibetan independent website blogs have been closed down and intellectuals cannot report freely on the situation inside Tibet. China’s constitution provides for freedom of religious belief, but the government actively restricts any religious expression that could potentially undermine its authority. Still no independent news or information can be reported by the print media, broadcast media or new media in Chinese-controlled Tibet without fear. News independent of Chinese controlled media still cannot be reported within Tibet. Outside the country, especially in India, where hundreds of thousands of Tibetans have found refugee, independent news is flourishing. However, China’s international image has been greatly tarnished not only from their repressive policies against Tibetan and Chinese people, but also, as RSF has said several times, ‘the authorities in Beijing also tightened the grip, isolating Tibet even more from the outside world.’ Tibet today is denied basic human rights, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest against the Chinese regime. There is daily fear of arbitrary detention or torture. As Tibetans, we must remind ourselves to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the just cause of human rights, including freedom of speech. RSF has been a tenacious advocate for checks and balances to prevent censorship by peerless, dictators and authoritarians. RSF is a familiar face on the world stage, an advocate who has shown the world how to strengthen one’s willpower and self discipline, like during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. I am hopeful that RSF will remain close at hand and active in the fight for basic democratic values, including freedom of press. I urge you all to join me in wishing RSF all the best, and to congratulate RSF as it celebrates 30 years of great adventures. Without the tireless efforts of all the RSF members that make up the global free press movement, we would not be able to celebrate this year’s World Press Freedom Day differently. Please take a moment to send a message of support to the RSF you stand with until all those suppressed people are free. The struggle will continue. We must defend this most fundamental right: Freedom of Speech..”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the conference on ‘Strengthening Democracy in Asia’ at the India International Centre in New Delhi, India on March 23, 2015. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL By Jane Cook, : March 24, 2015

New Delhi — The spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama said that ‘truthfulness and transparency will lead to trust and trust yields friendship and the use of force is entirely the wrong method to employ.’ His Holiness addressed a conference on the theme — ‘Strengthening Democracy in Asia’ to mark the legacy of veteran Indian activist and politician, George Fernandes at the India International Centre in New Delhi. Carl Gershman, President of the National Endowment for Democracy welcomed His Holiness and Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay before outlining the aspect of George Fernandes’ life. Anselmo Lee from Korea mentioned that this was the first time the Asian Democracy Network had participated in a meeting in India. He pointed out that this year, 2015, is the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, one of the first documents to describe human rights. It is the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and therefore of the establishment of the UN. “On this special occasion, we remember my old friend George Fernandes, who even when he became Defence Minister continued to maintain his simple, self-sufficient way of life. Some of our friends’ attitudes changed once they came to exercise power; not George Fernandes,” said His Holiness. “Fernandes was sympathetic to Tibet and the Tibetan cause right from the start and never missed an opportunity to speak up for them. His face will remain in my heart until I die and I’ll remember him even into my next life,” he added. With regard to the importance of democracy, His Holiness said that “even animals love freedom.” He mentioned the small dog and cat that live with him, who, whenever the door is open, love to run free. It’s in this spirit that, His Holiness said, “it’s really important that we use our human creativity and intelligence. Looking over the audience His Holiness observed that there were hardly any delegates from Africa or from

China woos with more aid, Nepal promises crackdown on Tibetans

Police officers severely beating Tibetan monks in Kathmandu, Nepal as they protest against Chinese rule in Tibet. Photo: TPI By PTI, : March 30, 2015

Beijing/Kathmandu - Firming up ties with Nepal, Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged NRs 14.5 billion to Nepal for transport and infrastructure building as Kathmandu promised to keep up the crackdown on Tibetans supporting His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the 900 million RMB (NRs 14.5 billion) economic aid package for Nepal during his meeting with Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav on the sidelines of Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan Province in China yesterday, Nepal Foreign Ministry officials said. “China appreciates Nepal’s firm support on issues concerning China’s core interests, including issues related to Tibet and Taiwan,” Xi said, apparently referring to Kathmandu’s crackdown on Tibetan refugees crossing over to

The Tibet Post International

meet the Dalai Lama at Dharamshala in India. Xi hoped that Nepal would not allow any forces to use Nepal’s territory to engage in anti-China separatist activities. He said China will continue to support Nepal’s effort in safeguarding independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Yadav said Nepal would never allow its territory to be used by any anti-China activities. The assistance will be used to upgrade the 115-km Araniko Highway that links Nepal with China, and to develop the transport infrastructure, foreign ministry sources said here. China is also willing to initiate talks on Free Trade Agreement with Nepal at an early date, Xi said, adding that the two countries should work on traffic interconnectivity, infrastructure, hydro power development, modernisation of agriculture and science and technology. Xi welcomed Nepal’s participation in the Silk Road projects unveiled by him at the forum to improve China’s connectivity to Europe through a maze of road, rail and port network. The two sides are also planning to beef up the connectivity with rail and road links, amid concerns in India over China’s growing influence in the Himalayan country. Early this month, China had increased its annual aid to Nepal to USD 128 million from USD 24 million.

the Arab lands.” His Holiness suggested they be invited in future, noting the great potential waiting to be fulfilled in Africa. “There are real problems in many of the Arab lands at present, but it’s important to recall that even the terrorists and militants, who are causing such alarm, are human beings,” he said. Adding “We need to befriend them and win their trust. The use of force is entirely the wrong method to employ.” “Today, we place too much stress on secondary differences between us like our religious faith or nationality. Here in India the caste system is an obstacle to freedom and democracy. 2600 years ago Buddha Shakyamuni was opposed to caste discrimination. In the context of democracy not only freedom, but also equality are essential. “The Bolshevik revolution opposed and removed the Tsar, but then Lenin became a tyrant like the Tsar before him. Likewise, the Chinese communists successfully opposed the Emperor and powerful warlords, only to become like warlords themselves. Today, the movement for democracy should include people from all over the world standing opposed to the narrow-minded shortsightedness of totalitarianism.” Answering questions from the audience, His Holiness stated that India is the world’s most populated democracy and, because it also has the rule of law, it is the most stable country in its neighborhood. By comparison, Deng Xiaoping saw that China remaining isolated from the rest of the world was not in its interests. He opened up the economy, which has led to millions being lifted out of poverty, but now there are those who say that unless the political system changes too, the economic benefits may be lost. His Holiness said that eventually the Chinese people will resist totalitarianism just as Liu Xiaobo has resisted it. Change will also come because of the thousands of Chinese students who are studying abroad. Carl Gershman thanked His Holiness for remembering Liu Xiaobo, expressing the hope that he will be free to attend a meeting like this in the future and that he will know of the support there is for him. Recalling the drawbacks he had noted in his childhood of too much power in too few hands, His Holiness explained how he had tried to implement reforms. It was not until Tibetans were in exile that he was able to take the steps that eventually culminated in the election of a political leadership and the opportunity for him to retire from such responsibilities. An activist from Hong Kong sought his advice and he replied, saying “No matter how difficult, stand by your principles. In the struggle between the power of the gun and the power of truth, the power of the gun may be stronger in the short term, but in the long term it is the power of truth that prevails. Calmly stick to your beliefs.” A female delegate from Bangladesh asked about the difficulties faced by women, even in democracy. His Holiness recounted how, when the need for leadership emerged in early human societies, physical strength was the main criterion, which led to male dominance. Today, with the development of education there is more equality and it is essential that more women give a lead. Another woman from Pakistan asked about developing greater trust between India and Pakistan and His Holiness encouraged greater people to people exchanges, which are a practical way to overcome the propaganda of vested interests. Carl Gershman introduced Sikyong Dr

Lobsang Sangay who was effusive in his appreciation of the democratic changes His Holiness has introduced. He noted that although His Holiness had called him ‘my political boss’, while he would serve for a limited term, His Holiness was spiritual leader for life. He was also full of praise for the consistent support and solidarity George Fernandes showed with Tibetans for decades. During the hot afternoon His Holiness received an enthusiastic welcome at the Gymkhana Club where he spoke about the need to foster both warm-heartedness and intelligence. He told the audience that “All our knowledge came from India. One great Tibetan master in the early 15th century remarked that although Tibet is nominally bright with snow, until the light of knowledge came from India, Tibet had remained in the dark. “You Indians are our gurus and we are the disciples, but I think we have proved to be reliable disciples because we have well preserved the knowledge we gained from you.” He spoke of the need to promote ethics in a secular way, beginning with the acknowledgement that we are all the same as human beings. “If we are honest, truthful and transparent it will lead to trust and trust yields friendship. For social animals like us, friendship is very important. Taking a more ethical approach in this very life will bring self-confidence and inner peace.” In answering questions His Holiness mentioned the Buddha giving his followers the liberty to question his teachings and examine them with reason. He pointed out that the Buddha had given different explanations on different occasions according to the dispositions of those listening to him. Asked about mindfulness he mentioned that mindfulness of the body can be employed to counter attachment, but there is also mindfulness of feelings and mindfulness of the mind. With regard to emptiness of intrinsic existence, it doesn’t mean that things don’t exist at all. He cited an 11th century master who said: “The hand is empty, fire is empty and burning is empty, but if you put your hand in the fire there will be pain.” Questioned about karma His Holiness said that the word karma means action. While some people lazily blame what happens to them on ‘their karma’, they don’t stop to ask who created this karma by doing the action. The answer is that they did. In response to doubt about the presence of ancient values in contemporary society, he said it is true that there is a need to make an effort to preserve positive traditional values in the community. At the end, Club Secretary, Mr Vidya Chibber offered his thanks to His Holiness for coming, praising him as a man of peace and a rare human being. The members who thronged the path to catch a closer glimpse of him as he left seemed to agree.

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His Holiness asserted that in the 7th, 8th and 9th centuries there were three distinct empires:Chinese, Mongolian and Tibetan. Later, Chinese hardliners claimed that Tibet became part of China as a result of marriage in those early times. Then they claimed that Tibet had absurdly become part of China when they both fell under Mongolian control in 13th century. In due course, Jiang Zemin said that they should simply claim Tibet had been part of China since early times. “It may be in our interest to remain within China if they ensure Tibet’s material benefit, but provided they give us the freedom to preserve Tibetan culture, which is useful and helpful as a culture of peace and compassion.” He reported a conversation he’d had with an independence advocate in which they had agreed that China wasn’t going to simply grant independence, Tibetans would have to fight for it. The question then was where they could obtain weapons and even if they could find a source, how they would pay for them. And if they could obtain them, how would weapons be delivered to Tibet? Not through India or Nepal, nor, probably, through Bhutan. His Holiness said ‘even if that could be achieved, how would Tibetans cope with casualties when the loss of 1000 would be significant to them, while the loss of 100,000 would make little difference to China. His Holiness said his correspondent wept as he left. ‘ Questioned about whether it’s possible to have any positive effect on other people’s disputes, His Holiness repeated that rather than focusing on the differences between them, we should emphasise what they have in common as human beings. His Holiness stressed the importance of being realistic and relying on common sense, reiterating the USA’s and others’ responsibility for leading the rest of the world towards democracy.

3 TPI NEWS Tibet News Tibetan monk from Labrang Monastery Tibetan monk called for independence freed The Tibet Post International

March 31, 2015

unlawfully detained for the second time By Oliver Arnoldi: March 20 2015

Undated photo of Ven Jamyang Jinpa from Labrang Monastery in Sangchu County, north-eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

Dharamshala – A source living inside Tibet has revealed that a Tibetan Buddhist monk was arrested without cause and then abducted by Chinese authorities for the second time in seven years on March 13. Jamyang Jinpa is a monk at Labrang Tashi Kyil Monastery in Sangchu County, Amdo region of north-eastern Tibet (Ch: Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu province). Chinese police have not commented on the status

of Jinpa since his arrest. Golok Jigme – a Tibetan ex-political prisoner under the Chinese government and a friend of Jinpa – said: “We don’t know where he has been taken and when he will return.” Jinpa comes from Achok Yar-ru, a small town in Achok Township, which is in Sangchu County, Amdo region. Jigme reported that Jinpa and himself were originally arrested by Chinese authorities on May 7, 2008 as part of the crackdown on the widespread Tibetan protests that proliferated during that summer. Jinpa and Jigme were simultaneously arrested with over 700 fellow monks at Labrang in a raid of the Monastery by Chinese police. Ven Jigme added: “Many monks were released after several days, but Jinpa and I weren’t. We were interrogated for 40 days by Chinese police while being tortured. We were forced to hold our arms above our heads and our wrists and ankles were shackled against a wall. The shackles had sharp metal teeth that pierced our skin and caused severe, lasting pain.”

China arrests another monk over Tibet related political activism

By Yeshe Choesang: March 22, 2015

Dharamshala — A Tibetan monk has been released from prison after serving a 15-year sentence for reportedly protesting Chinese repressive rule in Tibet. “Ven Ngawang Gyurme, a monk of the Sog Tsanden monastery in Sog County in the Kham region of eastern Tibet (Ch: Suo, Naqu prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region), was released on March 20, 2015,” Mr Ngawang Tharpa told the Tibet Post International on Saturday, March 21. Ven Gyurme and five others were arrested on March 17, 2000 on charges of “harming national security” and “spreading negative propaganda,” he said. “He was charged with allegedly printing and distributing leaflets and posters calling for Tibetan independence, long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and demanding Chinese leave Tibet,” sources said. “A sentence of 15 years was handed down by the Nagchu Prefecture People’s Intermediate Court and he was held first in Drapchi prison and later at Chushur prison,” he added. Gyurme is a native of Trokta village, Sog County in Kham region of eastern Tibet. He is a monk at Sog Tsanden Monastery where he studied for over twenty years. He was one of main leaders in monastery constructions — later arrested and charged on political ground, allegedly spreading negative propaganda. “Two of his colleagues — Yeshe Tenzin and Tenzin Choewang received short-term prison sentences but later died after being released in

From left: Undated photo of Ngawang Gyurme and second photo shows his release from prison, March 20, 2015. Photo: TPI

serious health condition,” sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The other three — Tsering Lhagon and Trakru Yeshe were sentenced to 15 years and 7 years respectively and Sey Khedup was sentenced to life in prison. Over 1.2 million Tibetans died between 1949 and 1979, as a direct result of the Chinese invasion and occupation of Tibet. Since 2009, at least 136 Tibetans have selfimmolated, in response to Chinese leadership’s ‘iron

fist’ and their ongoing hard-line policies in Tibet. This wave of self-immolation protests that marked the biggest wave of self-immolation in modern history and with more than 117 of those resulting in death. In Tibet today, Tibetans are being arbitrarily arrested, imprisoned and tortured for merely expressing their suffering under Chinese rule. However, authorities in Beijing still claim that “China ‘peacefully liberated’ Tibet, and that the “Tibetans are living in a Maoist socialist paradise.”

China detains Tibetan artist over alleged Tibet political activism By Yangchen Dolma: March 24, 2015

Undated photo of Lobsang Dawa, a Tibetan monk from Tsanden Monastery in Sog County, eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: March 25 2015

Dharamshala — Emerging sources says Chinese authorities in Sog County of Kham region in Tibet have detained another Tibetan monk on unknown charges and they did not give any explanation for his arrest. “The monk, identified as Lobsang Dawa, a 38-year-old Tibetan monk, was secretly arrested by Chinese police under the cover of night from his monastery on March 20,” Mr Ngawang Tharpa told the Tibet Post International (TPI) on Wednesday. “Ven Dawa has disappeared after he was secretly arrested last week on unknown charges and the police did not give any explanation for his arrest,” he said. Sources from the region said ‘’his details, including current condition and whereabouts are still unknown.” “ I t i s e x t r e m e l y d i ff i c u l t n o w t o g e t details from the region due to restrictions on information and tightened security in the area,” Mr Tharpa said, speaking on condition of anonymity. According to the sources, the monk is one of the many Tibetans who is being arrested and imprisoned for calling for human rights and freedom for Tibetan people. In February, Chinese authorities have detained Ngawang Gyaltsen, a 41-year-old Tibetan artist over alleged charges of political activism challenging China’s repressive

rule. Since his arrest, his conditions and whereabouts also remain unknown. “Further restriction imposed recently by the Chinese government on the use of social networking sites and other social media such as WeChat to publicise images, audio or videos that contain information related to Tibet issue,” sources said. “Local Tibetans also believe that the monk had been arrested for exchange of information and pictures related to Tibet issues via social media,” he added. Dawa is a native of Rawak Yultso village of Sog County in Kham region, eastern Tibet (Ch: Suoxian, Nagqu Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region). Ven Lobsang is a monk at Sog Tsanden Monastery where he works as a housekeeper. The Chinese regime has imposed severe restrictions on internet and phone connections by increasing a wider crackdown on communications across Tibet in an attempt to prevent any news reaching the outside world. I n Ti b e t t o d a y, Ti b e t a n s a r e b e i n g arbitrarily arrested, imprisoned and tortured for merely expressing their suffering under Chinese rule. However, authorities in Beijing still claim that “China ‘peacefully liberated’ Tibet, and that the “Tibetans are living in a Maoist socialist paradise.”

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Dharamshala — Chinese authorities in Nagchu County of Central Tibet have detained a Tibetan artist over alleged charges of political activism challenging China’s repressive rule. “The monk, identified as Ngawang Gyaltsen, a 41-year-old Tibetan artist, was secretly arrested by Chinese police under the cover of night from his house on February 24,” Mr Ngawang Tharpa told the Tibet Post International (TPI) on Monday afternoon. “Local Tibetans suspect he was detained because of suspected involvement in political activities challenging Beijing’s repressive rule,” the source said. “Local Tibetans are worried and tense because they have no information about him,” the local source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It was later found out that Gyaltsen was taken into custody by Chinese security in

Undated photo of Ngawang Gyaltsen, a Tibetan artist from Nagchu County, Central Tibet. Photo: TPI

Nagchu County after his disappearance,” Mr Tharpa added. According to the source, Gyaltsen was forced to leave the monastery after the “Patriotic re-education” campaigns, in which Chinese authorities forced monks and nuns to denounce His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and study materials praising China’s leadership. “After leaving his monastery, Ven Gyaltsen

could not travel and meet with his family and friends without government authorization and he was kept under strict police surveillance,” the source said. Gyaltsen is a native of Nagchu County in Central Tibet Tibet (the Nagqu Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region). He was a monk at Shag Rongpo Monastery where he studied and became a well-known artist. The Chinese regime has imposed severe restrictions on internet and phone connections by increasing a wider crackdown on communications across Tibet in an attempt to prevent any news reaching the outside world. In Tibet today, Tibetans are being arbitrarily arrested, imprisoned and tortured for merely expressing their suffering under Chinese rule. However, authorities in Beijing still claim that “China ‘peacefully liberated’ Tibet, and that the “Tibetans are living in a Maoist socialist paradise.”

Monk protesting for a free Tibet arrested and abducted in Ngaba county monk from Kirti Monastery – on March 8. A large number of armed Chinese security forces and police have been deployed in the streets of Ngaga and the surrounding area during the past few weeks. Sources say that the Chinese government has imposed tighter control over the movement of local Tibetans, including monks at Kirti Monastery. The heightened security presence appeared to be aimed at preventing protests on Tibetan National Uprising Day on March 10, which commemorated the 1959 Tibetan revolt against Chinese rule. The Chinese regime has also recently imposed severe restrictions on internet and phone connections throughout Tibet in a greater attempt to prevent information reaching the outside world.

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Undated photo of Lobsang Kalsang. Photo: TPI By Yangchen Dolma: March 4, 2015

Dharamshala – Chinese authorities in Ngaba County in north-eastern Tibet detained a Tibetan Buddhist monk earlier today for staging a peaceful solo protest while shouting slogans including: “free Tibet”. “Lobsang Kalsang – a 19-year-old monk from Kirti Monastery – was arrested while staging a solo protest in the streets of Ngaba shouting slogans protesting against Chinese rule in Tibet,” Ven Kanyak and Lobsang Yeshi – from Kirti Monastery in Dharamsala – told the Tibet Post International (TPI) this afternoon. “Kalsang walked around for several minutes [at approximately 3.40pm local time] while carrying a portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in his left hand and distributing windhorse prayer flags,” Kanyak and Yeshi

added, citing contacts in Tibet. “Chinese security personnel arrived at the site of the protest shortly after,” they said, adding that “his current condition and whereabouts remain unknown.” Kalsang is a native of Chukle Gupma village, Charuwa Yultso, Ngaba County in the Amdho region of north-eastern Tibet (Ch: Aba County, Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in the north-west of Sichuan province). He joined Kirti Monastery at a young age to become a monk where he trained in Buddhist studies. His father’s name is Tsering and his mother’s name is Dechen. They have three children; Kalsang is the middle child. The disappearance of Kalsang follows the abduction of Gedhun Phuntsok – another

He was constantly moved between the two facilities. After this, he was taken to Toelung prison in Lhasa where he was imprisoned for 3 months and eleven days, serving over 8 months total in prison. Tsultrim was finally released on May 11, 2013. During his imprisonment, he was heavily tortured and maltreated by the prison authorities. Out of prison, he was reportedly non-responsive and lost all use of his left arm. Arbitrary arrests and detention have increased amid unusual intensification of state surveillance measures in the region. The military and police presence is reported to have significantly increased in recent days. Chinese authorities are isolating Tibet from the world, particularly in the areas where the self-immolation protests have often occurred. Tibetans face lengthy jail sentences and torture for sharing information about any protests, including the self-immolations.

March 31, 2015

TPI NEWS

H.H THE DALAI LAMA

The Tibet Post International

His Holiness the Dalai Lama meets Sri Lankan monks for dialogue His Holiness honours science at

His Holiness the Dalai Lama presenting a member of delegation of senior Sri Lankan monks with a Buddha statue after their meeting in New Delhi, India on March 19. 2015. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL By Molly Lortie,: March 20, 2015

New Delhi, India, 19 March 2015 - Thursday morning the spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama met with a delegation of Sri Lankan Theros, senior monks, for discussions that would include Vinaya or monastic discipline. Having warmly welcomed them, he declared: “We are all followers of the same Buddha. At a time when scientific minded people are expressing some doubts about religion, many of them are expressing an interest in aspects of the Buddha’s teachings,” His Holiness said. The Sri Lankan monks gathered represented the three principal traditions of Sri Lankan Buddhism: the Ramanya, Shiyam and Amarapura Nikayas, in addition to members

of the Asgiri Chapter and the President of the Mahabodhi Society. “Yesterday we discussed the Vinaya all day. We compared the Theravada and Mulasarvastivada traditions, which are the Vinaya traditions of Sri Lanka and Tibet respectively, and found no significant differences between them,” the spokesman of the group said. The monks expressed a unanimous wish, shared by a large number of people in Sri Lanka, to see His Holiness visit their country. He replied that not only would he be very happy to come, but he would be happy if Sri Lankan monks were to come to visit and exchange views with Tibetan monks. The Nobel Peace laureate remarked that while his health in general is good, he has trouble with his knees that hinder his

going up and down stairs and expressed a willingness to speak from a wheelchair if necessary. With regard to his travels abroad he said: “I never try to propagate Buddhism in non-Buddhist countries, partly out of my respect for other religious traditions and partly out of a desire to foster interr e l i g i o u s h a r m o n y. A s 2 1 s t c e n t u r y Buddhists, what we all need is to know is what ethics, concentration and wisdom are. We need to understand how the Buddhist teaching of selflessness corresponds to the views of Quantum Physics.” His Holiness expressed his wish to find ways to educate ordinary people about the reality that the ultimate source of happiness is within us, that inner values are a source of peace of mind. He went on to extol the fundamental wisdom of the Four Noble Truths and how the Sanskrit tradition explains their 16 characteristics. Th e eld e s t o f th e S r i Lan k an Th er o s expressed his approval of this exchange of views and suggested that the quality of the monastic community would be improved if the bimonthly confession and purification rituals were more strictly observed. When His Holiness asked what particular text the Sri Lankans rely on to develop wisdom they mentioned Buddhaghosha’s ‘Visuddhimarga’ or ‘Path of Purification’. He remarked: “ We a r e s p i r i t u a l b r o t h e r s f o l l o w i n g Shakyamuni Buddha, but you are the senior students. I often mention that the Chinese are senior to us in their study of the Buddha’s teachings too. However, Tibetans make up for their junior status by the depth of their study and understanding. I am convinced we can learn from each other, and this has been a good beginning.”

education conference in Delhi By Oliver Arnoldi: March 25, 2015

Dharamshala – His Holiness the Dalai Lama asserted his belief in science as “an important method for exploring reality” during the inaugural address at Science, Ethics and Education, a two day international conference on March 24-25 at the University of Delhi. His Holiness was joined by scholars and teachers from around the world involved in the research of the ancient pedagogical traditions of India. Together, they considered how they might develop a more rounded education system that promotes ethical values as well as materialistic ones. “Everybody knows that science gives us an important method for exploring reality. And coming to an understanding of reality is important if your approach to what you are doing is to be realistic. If it isn’t, it’s not likely to succeed,” His Holiness said. “I’ve been interested in science since I was a child. I was always curious to know how

of Anthropology at Princeton University – also spoke at the conference, and discussed the varying presentations of Buddhism with His Holiness. Obeyesekere recalled the dry pedagogy of Buddhist teachings in abstract intellectual terms in his youth, in contrast to the powerfully vivid experiences of visiting sites of pilgrimage where teachers told stories based on vernacular texts. His Holiness acknowledged the different ways Buddhists invoke the teachings, and said that “humanity benefits from diversity, a variety of approaches. But if we over-emphasise differences, we risk dividing “us” and “them”, with the attendant risks of conflict and violence.” Other speakers included Dr Radhika Herzberger – Director of the Rishi Valley Education Centre – established by the late Indian writer and mystic Jiddu Krishnamurti. She presented a paper that echoed Krishnamurti’s philosophy, asking if knowledge has any place in human transformation. Krishnamurthy suggested that at a time and in a context in which most

His Holiness the Dalai Lama graces the 20th Shoton Festival in Dharamshala

Tibetan opera performance during the first day of the 20th Shoton festival at TIPA, Dharamshala, India, on March 27, 2015. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu By Molly Lortie,: March 27, 2015

Dharamshala — The 20th Tibetan Shoton Festival is officially underway after the opening ceremony, held at the Tibetan Institute of the Performing Arts on 27 March 2015. After a day of preparing, cleaning, and adorning prayer flags along TIPA Road, His Holiness the Dalai Lama swept through on his way to gracing the opening ceremony. Just before 9 am, when the performance was slotted to begin, His Holiness arrived to a swelling crowd that watched him take his seat in the topmost balcony overlooking TIPA’s stage. Before sitting down to enjoy the performance he stood briefly at the window and waved happily to the crowd below. Today’s event was attended by over 4000 people. “Several of these opera stories are based on Jataka Tales, the stories of the Buddha’s deeds as a bodhisattva in his lives before becoming a Buddha. These examples of generosity and kindness can bring tears to the eyes,” His Holiness said while speaking to a reporter. The Tibetan Opera (Shoton) festival is a centuriesold tradition, which has its roots in ancient India. When Buddha’s teaching flourished in India, monks were not allowed to beg for alms. The sponsors, devotees and patrons instead would come to the monasteries to make offerings in form of milk and curd, thus beginning the

festival tradition. The festival later became associated with Tibetan opera in the 15th Century when popular opera troups of the time including Gyalkhara, Kyormulunpa, Dri Ghungwa, Shangpa and Chungpa were invited to perform at the courtyard of Norbulingka during the commemorative enthronement anniversary of the His Holiness the Great Fifth Dalai Lama. Under the advising of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts organised the First Grand Shoton Opera Festival in exile in 1993. Over the years, the festival grew in prominence both in scale and quality, as new opera associations sprung up across Tibetan settlements in India and Nepal. At this year’s festival, TIPA director, Wangdu Tsering, began the ceremony by listing the three special celebrations that come with this year’s Shoton Festival. This year marks both the 25th anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Nobel Peace Prize and his 80th birthday, in addition to the 20th anniversary of the Shoton festival beginning in exile. He stressed the importance of the Lhamo, or opera, tradition in Tibetan culture, especially during this time of Chinese occupation in Tibet and the destruction of Tibetan culture. “These days, Tibetan and Chinese cultures are mixing, convoluting what is pure Tibetan. Tibetan artists are arrested without crime and kept in jail. But these policies are

impossible to keep forever, they have to end at somepoint.” He gave a special thank you to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for bringing Tibetan culture to the international community through his extended kindness and unrelenting efforts. This year’s festival includes 12 different troupes of performers from India and Nepal. The full schedule is as such: 27 March Premier presentation of opera extract by participating troups before His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama 28 March Khen Lob Choesum performed by the Tibetan Homes Foundation, Mussoorie 29 March Sugkyi Nyima performed by Kalimpong Tibetan Opera Association 30 March Nangsa Woebum performed by Mundgod Opera Association, Doeguling 31 March Khewo Pema Woebar performed by Phuntsokkling Tibetan Opera Association, Odisha 1 April Drowa Sangmo performed by Norgayling Cholsum Opera Association, Bhandara 2 April Jowo Jhe Palden Atisha performed by Tibetan Opera Performing Arts, Bylakuppe 3 April Gyalpo Jigten performed by Phendeling Opera Association, Mainpat 4 April Chaksam performed by Nepal Tibetan Lhamo Association 5 April Life of Buddha performed by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Dharamshala All performances will take place at TIPA, Dharamshala and will begin at 9:00 am.

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Despite fallouts in negotiations between China and Tibet, Gyari Rinpoche said he believed that ultimately, “there will certainly be a major breakthrough.” However, the issue, he added, is not about the Dalai Lama’s relationship with China, but rather about the Tibetan people’s relationship with China. A lot of informal talks have shown that “there was serious discussion [about Tibet] among the Chinese leadership” in the past two decades that Rinpoche has been His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s envoy to the U.S., he said. “The Tibet struggle is much more than slogans,” the keynote speaker Lodi Gyari Rinpoche said. “[It’s about the] preservation of the distinctive cultural heritage of Tibetan people, that actually defines us as Tibetan.” Emory held the first Tibet Week in 2001 to improve the relationship between the University and Tibet.

His Holiness delivering the inaugural address at Science, Ethics and Education, an international conference at the University of Delhi in Delhi, India on March 24, 2015. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

and why things worked. When I was given mechanical and clockwork toys I played with them for a while and then took them to bits to see how they worked. Some of the time I was able to put them back together again.” It was this passion that prompted His Holiness to defy the advice of a friend 30 years ago – that “science is the killer of religion” – to actively engage in dialogue with scientists. In due course, this led to the establishment of the Mind & Life Institute, which co-sponsored the conference. His Holiness elaborated: “Many scientists are now interested to know more about the ancient Indian science of the mind. To begin with they assumed that the mind was the product of or entirely dependent on the brain, so if the brain stopped the mind stopped. Nowadays, however, there are clear findings that mental training can affect the brain.” His Holiness pointed out that many of the problems that we face today relate to an imbalance in the way we develop our cognition and our emotions. “Too often emphasis is placed on developing a powerful brain despite the fact that – as human beings – we have the potential to develop warm-heartedness. Scientists have found that infants shown images of people helping each other or hindering each other clearly show a preference for the former. This suggests that it is basic human nature to be generous and helpful,” he said. His Holiness argued that the 1 billion people who currently declare themselves irreligious can benefit from the nurturing of inner values, which are often associated with theistic ideas but are in fact a genuine source of humanistic ideals. He asserted: “We need to employ a secular approach to ethics, secular in the Indian interpretation of respecting all religious traditions and even the views of non-believers in an unbiased way. Secular ethics in scientific findings, common experience and common sense can easily be introduced into the education system. If it can be done, there is a real prospect of making the 21st century an era of peace and compassion.” Professor Gananath Obeyesekere – a Sri Lankan academic who is Professor Emeritus

education theories are based on rationality, learning in fact consists not so much of rational ideas but of ideas that are infused with feeling, powerfully influenced by the social environment surrounding the student. Another academic, Dr Bataa Mishigish – a former monk in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and an expert on religion in the modern world – expressed challenges that have appeared in the social relations of Buddhist institutions in Mongolia, where democracy emerged in 1990 after the disintegration of communist regimes across Europe in 1989. Despite its political freedom, the public, cultural and educational relations of restored and reinvigorated Buddhist institutions are still being worked out in modern Mongolia. His Holiness commented that “modernisation tends to be about external trappings rather than inner values, and it’s the inner values that are the most important. Buddhism is part of Mongolia’s national identity, and the proper way to preserve it is not by building temples and statues, but by preserving knowledge of the tradition and putting it into practice.” The final speaker of the first day of the conference was Ha Vinh Tho, a teacher who shared his experience of implementing a compassion-based curriculum in Bhutan and Vietnam. The curriculum is based on four pillars: Learning to learn,Learning to do,Learning to be,Learning to live together. Tho emphasised the final two pillars in indicating the importance of children developing social and emotional skills, ones which he says “can be cultivated and trained.” He also spoke of the heartening experience he has had implementing the Call to Care programme that is being developed in collaboration with the Mind & Life Institute and is being piloted across Israel, Bhutan and Vietnam. Essential to Call to Care are three kinds of care: receiving care (based on gratitude), self-care (based on selfmanagement), and extending care (based on expressing compassion for others). Above all, Tho stated that Call to Care is about educating the next generation in the most rounded way possible.

5 EXILE NEWS TPI NEWS 9th session of the Tibetan parliament Tibetan Parliament in-Exile reiterates call for concludes, adds Australasian seat international fact-finding team to visit Tibet The Tibet Post International

By Molly Lortie,, : March 30, 2015

Dharamshala -- The 15th Tibetan Parliament in-Exile successfully concluded its 9th session on 28 March 2015, which mainly discussed the 2015-2016 budget for the Central Tibetan Administration based in India. In addition to budget discussions, the Parliament in-Exile also voted to create a new seat in Parliament to represent the great number of Tibetans in Australia, New Zealand and parts of Asia besides India, Bhutan and Nepal. The motion for an Australasian seat passed with a total of 29 votes, exceeding the two-thirds margin needed. Meanwhile, the motion to create two new seats for the Jhonang sects did not pass, as it only received 17 votes, which was not enough to pass. This drew a crowd of around 30 people outside the Tibetan parliament to protest Parliament’s decision.

March 31, 2015

In his concluding remarks, Mr Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, gave a brief overview of the proceedings that took place during the 9th session, and expressed the need for Tibetan people, at a time when the Tibet issue is enjoying substantial media coverage and international attention, to personally participate in the cause. “Even though we now have the facility of live telecast of the functions and teaching proceedings, it is better if we personally attend. Our gatherings in large numbers send a strong signal to China of our unity and would also serve as a source of inspiration for the Tibetans inside Tibet,” the Speaker added. The parliament will meet next in September to discuss the annual reports submitted by the seven departments of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Central Tibetan Administration offers thanks for implementation of Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy peaker Penpa Tsering during his opening address at the 9th session of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. Photo: TPiE By Yeshe Choesang: March 18, 2015

Dharamshala — The 15th Tibetan Parliament which began its 9th session on Monday reiterated its appeal to the Chinese government to allow an unbiased fact-finding delegation comprising of diplomats, media and reps. of human rights groups to visit Tibet. A minute’s silence was observed to honour those who had died for the Tibetan cause, followed by the singing of the Tibetan national anthem at the opening of budget session — the 9th session of the 15th the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) for the financial year 2015-2016. In his opening remarks, Mr Penpa Tsering, the parliament Speaker, spoke about the critical

situation prevailing inside Tibet and the wave of self-immolation protests that has swept Tibet since 2009. “The situation inside Tibet continues to remain grim. Five Tibetans set themselves on fire in protest since the last session of the Tibetan parliament in September 2014, resulting in a total of 136 self-immolations since 2009,” Mr Tsering said. The Speaker said that “the Tibetan Parliament will duly deliberate on the situation inside Tibet to mitigate the sufferings of the Tibetan people inside Tibet.” TPiE unanimously passed two resolutions expressing solidarity with Tibetans who have self-immolated in protest against China’s

repressive policies in Tibet and expressed condolences to all those Tibetans who had sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet. TPiE also expressed its gratitude to the parliaments and government leaders and international community for their support, and appealed them to continue their support for the just cause of Tibet. It emphasised the parliament’s resolve to fulfill the aspirations of the Tibetan people and take earnest and effective responsibility towards the successful return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet. The parliament reaffirmed the “Middle Way Approach” as the only viable solution to resolve the issue of Tibet through dialogue with the Chinese government. The House also condoled the demise of Shri. Kul Bhushan Bakshi and Shri. Narayan Desai, two long-time supporters of Tibet who passed away recently. Finance minister Tsering Dhondup presented the Budget for 2015-2016 which will be discussed during coming sessions. TPiE committee for budget estimation, represented by its chairman Mr Thupten Lungrik, also presented its report to the house. This two week session will conclude on Saturday, March 28 after discussing and approving the budget of the Central Tibetan Administration for the year 2015-16. TPiE is the unicameral and highest legislative organ of the Central Tibetan Administration. Sessions are held twice every year, with an interval of six months between the sessions. The elections are held every five years and any Tibetan who has reached the age of 18 is entitled to vote. Today, the house consists of 44 members headed by a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker, who are elected by the members amongst themselves.

Prime Minister Modi called upon to save Tibet’s rivers on World Water Day By Oliver Arnoldi : March 30, 2015

Home Kalon Dolma Gyari with Shri Kaul Singh Thakur, Health and Revenue Minister, Government of Himachal Pradesh. Photo: CTA/DIIR By Penny Chiang: March 10, 2015

Dharamshala — Home Kalon Gyari Dolma and Home Secretary Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) met with Health and Revenue Minister Shri Kaul Singh Thakur of the Government of Himachal Pradesh on March 22 for the first time since it implemented the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy. Kalon Dolma and Secretary Khorlatsang were joined by representatives of Tibetan nunneries, monasteries and 218 families at the PWD Guest House in Dharamshala to welcome the decision of the Government of Himachal Pradesh, who adopted the Policy on February 13 and is the first state government to do so. The Policy is detailed in a 7 page document formalised on October 20 2014 that covers matters including the leasing of Indian land to Tibetans, the clarification of equal professional opportunities for Tibetans in India, and the extension of Tibetan benefits from the Government of India. While the document is widely perceived as a landmark for Tibetan rights in exile, Kalon Dolma voiced concerns about the terms and conditions of the framing of the document by the Government of Himachal Pradesh. She specified the issue of leasing land to the Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) in Himachal Pradesh, asking for the percentage of the Tibetan settler’s wage that needs to be paid to the Government of Himachal Pradesh to be reduced to 2% (the minimum lease amount). Kalon Dolma also expressed the ongoing grievances of Tibetan settlers in state forest land, whose steady receipt of eviction notices by state and national forces “creates chaos for a group of people who have been living in the area for over the last 50 years.” The issue has piqued intense disputes over the past few years. In 2012, the Himachal Pradesh High Court ordered the eviction of Tibetan settlers by March 31 2013, which was seconded on November 21 2013 by the National Green Tribunal. In February 2014, the Home Ministry advised the state government to keep the orders for eviction in abeyance until further advice was given, which was eventually followed by the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy in October 2014. In a report published on February 26 2015 – despite being advised to do so on humanitarian grounds by the Home Ministry – the Government of Himachal Pradesh decided not to regularise alleged residential building encroachments made by Tibetans on aforementioned forest land. However, it stated that it will not evict “bona fide settlers,” defined as those who had been permitted to build their homes by the state under a former

rehabilitation policy that dates back to the 1960s, prior to the enactment of the Forest Conservation Act under which the evictions of the last three years have been ordered. Despite this recent ruling, Minister Thakur assured Kalon Dolma that the Government of Himachal Pradesh will do “whatever possible to help Tibetan settlers.” He emphasised that the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy will “provide a relaxation of measures formerly imposed on the 218 families who have cases of encroachment on forest land pending against them.” “Tibetans who have lived in Himachal for over 50 years have become an integral part of the state’s culture. They are not refugees but an important part of the state of Himachal. The presence of his His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan exile community has made Dharamshala a popular destination for Indian and foreign tourists alike,” he added. The efficacy of the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy – for both Tibetans and Himachal Pradesh – will be seen in due course.

Memorial Tower ... The tower is located in the Taiwan Holy Mountain Ecological Education Park, a place dedicated both to education and as a memorial to those who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of Taiwan’s democracy, freedom and human rights. Democracy activists, Chairman Dawa Tsering of the Tibet Religious Foundation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, monks and nuns were all invited to attend the ceremony. The Tibetan Uprising Tower is about 5-6 meters high and is placed on a square base of marble symbolizing the great land of Tibet. The surface of the base is engraved with a memorial inscription and the Tibetan flag.Additionally, the names of the martyrs who have self-immolated since 2008 are inscribed in the Tibetan alphabet on the base of the tower. The main section of the tower is made from iron artifacts that came from a ruined temple during the Cultural Revolution in China. On the top, a small stone ball is stacked upon a larger ball, meant to symbolize perfection. During the ceremony, both the Tibetan National Anthem and a famous Taiwanese folk song were sung, and three Tibetan gurus prayed sutra in front of the tower. The main organizer, Mr Hsu-tung Yang, chairman of the Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation, opened the ceremony, expressing that Taiwanese and Tibetans are on the same team in the fight for democracy and independence, and in the resistance of China’s violence. Mr Zai-ting Tian, chairman of Formosa TV (the highest-rated TV station in Taiwan), which

Dharamshala - Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) India have launched a petition to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leaders of the other 9 downstream nations reliant on Tibetan sourced water to “stand up to China’s blatant stealing of Tibet’s rivers” and “establish water security in Asia.” The launch of the petition was part of a series of events organised in Dharamshala to celebrate the UN-declared World Water Day on March 22. Over 100 Tibetans, Indians and foreign supporters took part to shine a light on China’s rampant ecological degradation of Tibetan rivers and its plateau. “For centuries, the 10 downstream nations of Tibet have had access to the free flow of rivers from Tibet, bringing not only water for irrigation but rich nutrients for growing crops,” said Dorji Kyi of the Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA), one of the many speakers throughout the day. “However, over the last sixty years, China’s policies in Tibet of ... continued from front page

broadcasted the day’s ceremony, then praised those Tibetans who sacrificed their lives, calling them democratic heroes in our global village. 98 year old Mr Su Beng, a spiritual leader of Taiwanese independence, urged that the Taiwanese and Tibetans must maintain their faith in the fight for independence. Mr Dawa Tsering expressed his gratitude to the Taiwanese for the tower, which he asserted was sure to commemorate the suffering of Tibetans. The Taiwanese also shared their hope that His Holiness the Dalai Lama can soon freely visit Taiwan and witness the tower himself. Rainbow Liao, a Tati volunteer and also a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, said that “Recollecting Cheng Nan-jung setting himself on fire in insisting on the freedom of speech, and shouts proudly that ‘I am Taiwanese, I advocate Taiwan independence’” and at the same time, we shall not forget in a distant away that a group of people live in a snow-land and have the same values as we do in pursing democracy and freedom, and now they are struggling bravely for their religious freedom and Tibet independence.” Taiwan and Tibet both face oppression and infiltration at the hands of the Chinese Communist regime. The Tibetan Uprising Tower was built as a link between the island and the plateau who possess the shared values of freedom and democracy. With the completion of the tower, it should serve as a constant reminder to the people of Taiwan that freedom is truly precious, and as a tribute to the souls of the martyrs who continued the struggle for democracy.

Members of Students for a Free Tibet call on Indian PM and leaders of 9 downstream nations to save Tibet’s rivers on World Water Day, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, India, on March 22, 2015. Photo: TPI

excessive mining and damming and waterdiversion projects have created a severe environmental crisis which will have negative impacts for all the downstream countries, including India,” she added. Events during the day included street theatre jointly organised by SFT India and TWA and a rally protesting China’s environmental exploitation of Tibet. Protestors held placards reading “Tibet Dries, Asia Dies”, “Be Strong India: Stand Up for Brahmaputra” and “Save Tibetan Rivers”. This was followed by a screening of Michael Buckley’s documentary on Chinese mining in Tibet – Plundering Tibet – as well as a talk on the status of Tibet’s fragile ecosystems and its repercussions for downstream nations by Tempa Gyaltsen of the Tibet Policy Institute, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). Jyotsna George – Campaigns Director for SFT India – also spoke about the situation of Tibetan rivers: “The Brahmaputra River originates

TPiE passes resolution ... for the general cause of the Tibetan people and to pray for His long life and continued good health. The Parliament on Monday emphasised the parliament’s resolve to fulfill the aspirations of the Tibetan people and take earnest and effective responsibility towards the successful return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet. In light of the worsening and urgent situation in Tibet, the Speaker reiterated his appeal to the Chinese government to allow an unbiased fact-finding delegation comprising

from Tibet as the Yarlung Tsangpo, which is the lifeline of India and Bangladesh. Under Chinese occupation, the Yarlung Tsangpo has been dammed extensively, and there are plans to divert its water to mainland China. This will have devastating consequences for India and Bangladesh.” “As a concerned citizen of India, today on World Water Day, we are taking the opportunity to launch a petition to India and leaders of the 9 other downstream nations to come together and raise their voice to protect their lifeline: Tibet’s rivers,” she concluded. As well the launch of SFT India’s petition, with TWA they wrote Letters of Concern to the Office of Prime Minister Modi and the Embassies of Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in Delhi in the run-up to World Water Day. Similar protest events were organised in and around Delhi by Tibetan and Indian student activists. ... continued from front page

of diplomats, media and reps. of human rights groups to visit Tibet. TPiE unanimously passed two resolutions expressing solidarity with Tibetans who have self-immolated in protest against China’s repressive policies in Tibet and expressed condolences to all those Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet. As many as 42 out of 44 members of the parliament, including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, attended the session to pass the historic Resolution.

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March 31, 2015

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LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Romance will unfold if you take trips or get together with friends. Don’t let coworkers interfere with your objectives. Try to be reasonable. Include friends and family members in your redecorating plans. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) A residential move may be necessary to get a better job. It’s time to reevaluate your motives. Sort situations out as best you can. Watch your spending habits. Don’t go hog wild when it comes to entertainment or you could find yourself short of funds at the end of the month. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Make sure any presentation you have is ready. Romance will develop through work related activities. You could be cornered, so be prepared to tell the truth. Attend to things that you should have done yesterday. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Things are looking up. Don’t let peers distract you or push their work your way. Opportunities will unfold; however, you must be willing to pay the price. Make arrangements to meet friends at your local dance club. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may find out that someone has not been completely honest with you. Channel your efforts into achieving your goals. Avoid letting family get involved in your personal life. Opportunities will come through behind the scenes activities. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) You could make extra cash through creative hobbies. Visit friends or relatives who have been confirmed. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations. You may not want to spend time around family or your home. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your emotional partner will push the right buttons this month. Do the necessary chores and then do things that please you. This will not be the day to have minor surgery. You would be wise to socialize with as many people as possible. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Expand your knowledge and sign up for courses and seminars. Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don’t allow them to make unreasonable demands. Opportunities to get involved in self improvement projects will be rewarding. Be innovative. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

March 31, 2015 TIBET WORLD 7 University of Redlands grants the 17th His Holiness offers condolences over the Death of Lee Kuan Yew

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

Karmapa first-ever honorary degree

By Yeshe Choesang: March 23, 2015

Dharamshala - The spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama has conveyed his heartfelt condolences over the death of Singapore’s first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew. “On hearing of the passing away of veteran Singaporean leader Lee Kwan Yew, His Holiness wrote to his son, Lee Hsien Loong, the current Prime Minister, offering condolences to his family and the people of Singapore,” the Tibetan spiritual leader said on Monday in his condolence message. Referring to Lee Kwan Yew as an exemplary nation builder, the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate said that he had made and extraordinary contribution with vision and determination to Singapore’s evolution into a highly developed, prosperous state. The Tibetan spiritual leader “suggested that the best tribute that can be paid to the late The 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Rinpoche receiving an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Redlands. Photo: University of Redlands By Yeshe Choesang: March 26, 2015

Redlands, California, U.S. (March 25, 2015)– More than 1,700 students, faculty, staff, special guests, members of the public and spiritual followers were in attendance Tuesday night as the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, was granted an honorary academic degree and gave a live-streamed address, “Living Interdependence.” University President Dr. Ralph W. Kuncl conferred an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree upon the Karmapa. Dr. Karen Derris, Professor of Religious Studies and Virginia Hunsaker Chair in Distinguished Teaching, read a proclamation highlighting the Karmapa’s achievements in global communication, teaching, and learning and his close connection with the University’s students, according to reports. President Kuncl said, “We were thrilled to gather last evening with our University community, special friends and family members, many new visitors to our campus, and untold thousands around the world who viewed live on the Web, to present His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, an honorary degree – the firstever to be conferred upon His Holiness. We thank and honor His Holiness for his kindness to our students who learned from him at his home in India and engaged with him during his visit this week, and for his universal teachings of peace, tolerance and understanding.” The Karmapa – a 29-year-old Buddhist spiritual leader who heads the 900-yearo l d K a r m a K a g y u s c h o o l o f Ti b e t a n

Buddhism and guides millions of Buddhists around the world – visited the University Monday and Tuesday during the only Southern California stop of his two-month trip to the United States. “I have a very special connection with the University of Redlands,” the Karmapa said. “The two occasions that students came for the courses in India were wonderful experiences for me. Among the many reasons to visit here today, my favorite is to be able to reunite with old friends. Being here feels like coming home.” “I can see that many people of today’s generation of youth are aware of the responsibility they have for the future of this planet,” he added. “In speaking to them on this trip, I want to encourage them to see that responsibility not as a burden, but as an opportunity.” During his visit the Karmapa met with faculty and students, attended a religious studies class, toured the campus, and even visited with the University’s live mascot, a bulldog named Thurber. The Karmapa also reunited with 20 former Redlands students who came back to campus just to visit with him again. In 2011 and 2013, students from Derris’ Johnston Center for Integrative Studies seminars traveled to India to learn from the Karmapa. His conversations with the first group of students formed the basis of his book, The Heart is Noble: Changing the World from the Inside and Out (Shambala, 2013), which was co-edited by Derris. A second book, also co-edited by Derris, is forthcoming based on the group that traveled in 2013.

His Holiness “happy” to visit, so please grant him visa: IATBD

A Taiwanese delegation holding the petition which was signed by over 50 organisations in Taiwan. Photo: TPI By Oliver Arnoldi: March 23, 2015

Dharamshala - A petition asking for a Taiwanese visa to be granted to His Holiness the Dalai Lama was submitted earlier today to President Ma at the Presidential Office Building, Taipei by ten members from the International Association of Tibetan Buddhist Dharma (IATBD). The petition asks for a visa to be granted to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to allow him to visit Taiwan in July to celebrate his 80th birthday and to offer his blessings to the country. According to Hou Yi-Ling – a representative of the delegation – the petition was signed by over 50 organisations in Taiwan, who are eager to welcome His Holiness back to Taiwan following his visits in 1997, 2001 and 2009, where he prayed for the victims of Typhoon Morakot.

The submission of the petition was preceded by the visit of 12 IATBD members to Dharamshala on March 16, where they presented His Holiness with an invitation to visit Taiwan from 15 Taiwanese civic organisations. He responded immediately, saying: “If Taiwan does not have any difficulty, I am fully prepared to visit.” He also reminded his followers to be pragmatic, stating that he respected the decision made by Taiwanese authorities. Since devolving his appointed authority as political leader of Tibet to the democratically elected Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay in 2011, His Holiness has openly said that he will continuously promote his three main commitments around the world through travel. These commitments are: the support of human values such as compassion, tolerance and contentment, the championing of religious harmony among the world’s major religious traditions and the preservation of Tibet’s Buddhist culture, one of peace and non-violence.

leader is to maintain the dedication he showed to Singapore, which has become a state its citizens can be proud of and which the world at large views as a model of education, peace and diversity.” Lee Kuan Yew, known as the founding father of modern Singapore and one of Asia’s most influential politicians, has died at age 91, according to the Singapore Prime Minister’s office. During more than a half-century as Singapore’s leader, he helped turn the city-state from a sleepy British colony into an affluent and efficient trading enclave, which enjoys the world’s third-highest per capita GDP. But he was also criticised for running a oneparty, authoritarian regime under which critics were muzzled and political rivals hounded. Lee was hospitalized on Feb. 5 with severe pneumonia and later put on a ventilator. Lee became Singapore’s first prime minister in

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during a special prayer event at the main temple in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, India, on February 24, 2013. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

1959, while it was still a British colony but had been granted a measure of sovereignty. Singapore joined neighboring Malaysia, another former British colony, in 1963. The following year riots between ethnic Chinese and Malays broke out, and Singapore and Malaysia split into separate nations in 1965.

Nothing has changed in Tibet, in fact it has gotten worse: Sikyong

From Top: Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay at the Ivy Plus European Leaders & Harvard Club of France, representatives of French Tibet Support Groups and Presidents of Tibetan communities in Europe and representatives of Tibet Support Groups in France, on March 13, 2015. Photo: TPI By Yeshe Choesang: March 16, 2015

Paris, France — ‘Nothing has changed in Tibet, the situation is grim,’ the Tibetan political leader Dr Lobsang Sangay Friday said, urging Tibet Support Groups to make their voice louder and magnify the issue of Tibet. “Your support and the support of our Tibet Support Groups worldwide mean a lot to us. Together we can achieve our aspiration,” Dr Lobsang Sangay expressed his appreciation to the Tibet supporters, saying he had come to thank each and everyone for their support for Tibetan cause. Thousands of Tibetans and Tibet supporters from across Europe gathered in Paris on March 14, for the Europe Stands for Tibet Rally. The rally was organised by the Tibetan Communities and Tibet Support Groups in Europe. ‘The Europe Stands for Tibet rally will send a strong message to Lhasa and Beijing. Let us work together until our dream is reached and liberty is achieved,” Dr Lobsang Sangay said on the second day of a four-day visit to France. “The situation in Tibet is grim, nothing has changed, in fact it has gotten worse,” said Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay while addressing the Ivy Plus European Leaders & Harvard Club of France where over 130 alumni from Ivy League colleges based in Paris attended. He said surveillance cameras had been installed all over major urban centres in Tibetan areas, and that Tibetans had been issued with “identity cards with second-generation high-tech chips.” “The security surveillance has been increased and the introduction of second-generation chips ID cards to monitor the movements of Tibetans by the Chinese security authorities. Every 30 meters or so, there are security check post all over the towns and cities in Tibet,” he added. “That means if you show it to any hotel or any check point, they will know exactly where you are from because all your biometrics are in that secondgeneration ID card.” “It’s almost like a reminder of North Korea or East Germany or the apartheid regime -- the control over Tibetan people, their every movement.” Sangay said that on certain sensitive dates -- such as the March 10 anniversary of the start of the 1959 uprising -- “you will see shooters on roof tops of the Tibetan capital Lhasa looking at Tibetans with their binoculars and guns.” “If you go to any of the major monasteries, just outside the gates there is a military camp.” “The Chinese authorities are spending more on security surveillance than funding for the village schools”. Sikyong said he met a journalist the previous day who had been to Tibet several times. The journalist

told him that he had visited a school at a remote Tibetan village, which was in a poor condition. But on the entrance gate to the village, there were four to five video cameras. ‘Tibetans have witnessed repression in Tibet at an unprecedented level since the occupation of Tibet by China,’ he stressed, adding ‘Tibet is not only vital to the 6 million Tibet. Today it is also called the Third Pole as it holds the third largest reserve of glacier after Artic and Antarctica.’ 10 rivers start in Tibet. Tibet is vital source of water for the region in Asia. More than 1 billion people depend on the water from Tibet. 20 per cent of the world population lives in China, which has only 8 per cent of fresh water supply. There will be shortage of water due to the deforestation and melting of glacier in Tibet. China has been building lots of dams on rivers in Tibet. Some say dams will be even larger than the Three Gorges Dam in China. There will be huge environmental destruction and there are fears in India that the rivers will be diverted to China. ‘There are concerns amongst experts that soon there will be war over water,’ he said. As countries grow increasingly reluctant to go against economic powerhouse China. Sangay

State of CTA Finance ... . As per the new changes, a Tibetan between the ages 6-17, residing in a foreign country, can pay only $1 per month as compared to the $3, which was the rate earlier. A total of $24 dollars per annum has been reduced to increase people’s contribution and participation in the Fund. The present Kashag also endorsed and continued the previous Kashag’s move to exempt Tibetans who have not been able to contribute regularly towards the Green Book due to financial constraints till 2007. The previous Kashag has announced exempted rates in contribution towards the Tibetan Green book. However, many people were not aware of that, due to which many Tibetans didn’t contribute. Therefore, the exemption was continued to allow them to update their green book dues. For those who were not able to pay, the lump sum amount liable towards the green book from 2007– 2015 could come to around $800. So, it’s understandable if individuals or families are not able to pay the full amount. All they need to do now is apply for exemption stating whether they are able to

acknowledged this, but said Western countries did not need to make a choice between doing business with China and supporting greater Tibetan autonomy. He pointed out that business between the United States and China appeared to go on as usual despite US President Barack Obama’s public encounter last month with the Dalai Lama in Washington, which was slammed by Beijing. “Money is important, so you must have business engagement with China. At the same time, you should stand up for your moral values,” he said. “Otherwise you come to France... the country of liberty, and you find that the very word French people take pride in is not supported when it’s actually needed.” Sangay also reiterated his belief that the non-violent model of resistance in Tibet was preferable. “It’s a bit frightening. Marginalised groups around the world will notice that the headlines, the front page news is all about conflicts, and violence and beheadings and burning of people. That’s what gets more attention and the discourse at the international level is about how many arms... and how many tanks to send,” he said. “So people might think that’s the option to pursue. But we believe that’s the wrong option. Non-violence in the long-run is beneficial for all sides, hence Tibet as a non-violent model is very important.” In an answers to a questions about what he would ask from Europe, Dr. Lobsang Sangay said, “Live up to the principles on which your countries were founded. The French revolution fought for Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. I ask for that liberty for the Tibetan people.” He said that there was growing number of Chinese in China who are Buddhist. It is estimated that there are about 300 to 400 million Buddhists in China that is larger than the Chinese Communist Party membership. The day’s last program was a meeting with Presidents of the Tibetan Communities in Europe. Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay also thanked the Presidents of the Tibetan Communities in Europe for organizing the Europe Stands for Tibet rally. “This rally is a show of public support. It is important for the Tibetans in Tibet to know our solidarity with them,” he said. “On behalf of Kashag, I would like to thank you.” ... continued from front page

pay $100 or up to $800 depending on their financial condition. Tibetan Associations should compile all the names with their green book numbers and the amount the particular individual is able to pay, and apply to the Department of Finance (Paljor office) for exemption. And accordingly, the Standing Committee of the Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile will consider the exemption. In another landmark move, the budget session also allowed the option to apply for a new green book. A person can now apply for a new green booklet for a change in name as per their residence documents/citizenship issued by the host country (i.e. US, UK, Canada etc.) Besides these, the Tibetan Parliament also approved the provision of a grant proposed by the Kashag for the various Tibetan Opera associations (Lhamo) to revive and promote the unique Tibetan artistic heritage of opera. Grants for construction of new as well as renovation of existing playgrounds in Tibetan settlements were also approved by the Tibetan parliament. These grants were allotted to augment the continued sustenance of the Tibetan settlements and for the development of general public health through

TPI NEWS

Back Page Focus Our compassion needs to be active and involved: Karmapa Rinpoche March 31, 2015

The Tibet Post International

By Yangchen Dolma: March 26, 2015

Redlands, California, U.S. (March 115-17, 2015)– The 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje delivered a lecture on the theme of ‘Caring Connections: Compassion, Technology and the Environment’ after meeting with both students and faculty at Stanford campus as part of his two-day visit to the campus and his two-month tour of the United States. The lecture was held at the university’s Memorial Hall to a sold-out gathering of 1,700 students, faculty and alumni. The event was live-streamed by Stanford University, and another 3,000 people watched online. Simultaneous translation was provided. “Although this is my third visit to the USA,” the Karmapa began, “it’s my first opportunity to have an extended visit to any foreign country, and I feel this is a special opportunity for me in my life. At the beginning of this tour I had an appreciation of great freedom, and I feel that this tour marks a significant step into the future for me.” He then began to explore the term ‘compassion’ and what it means on a personal level. The Karmapa shared some of his treasured childhood memories with the audience, showing just how deeply compassion was woven into his own Tibetan upbringing. “I think the environment I was raised in by my parents was an environment of great compassion. Part of this was just the closeness we all shared with each other in our physical space. My whole family lived inside a tent made of yak hair, all in the same room together. You could call it the living room, you could call it the kitchen—it was just one room,” he described. “What I remember in that very close space together with my family is the sound, every morning, of my parents making prayers, expressing sentiments such as may all sentient beings be happy, may all sentient beings be free of suffering. Then again I would fall asleep to the sounds of similar aspirations in the evening. In this way I really feel that I was raised in a mandala or a circle of compassion and love.” The Karmapa then explained that compassion is tightly woven with the reality of interdependence that we all share. “I think all of us have our own individual understanding of what the term ‘compassion’ means. But I think if we called compassion by another name, we could say it’s all about developing a sense of responsibility in relation to the reality of interdependence,” he said. “When we look at the way things happen in real life, we can see that many problems arise in the context of issues such as the environment, gender inequality, and so on, because we don’t have an appreciation of the interdependent nature of reality. Instead, perhaps unknowingly, we adopt a default attitude of selfishness, basically only cherishing our own concerns. We can see that this is the root of many of these problems.” The Karmapa drew examples from everyday life to demonstrate the powerful reality of interdependence between beings and the natural world we depend on. “We can especially see how this phenomenon of interdependence plays out in the context of technology. We’re seeing rapid advancements in technology, and as humans we’re also coming to depend more on technological advancements and placing even more of our hopes in technology. But technology is something that constantly requires updates and improvements, and that constant flow of updates and improvements in turn depends on a great

The 17th Karmapa arrives in US on Saturday, March 14; Tibetans and supporters offer a warm welcome at the San Francisco airport, California, tours Googleplex on Sunday, March 15 and gives talk to Google staff, speaks to students, faculty at Stanford University on Monday, March 17 and meets with professors at Stanford University. Photo: TPI

array of natural resources,” the Karmapa pointed out. “But we only see what we have in our hands when it comes to technology. We only see, for example, the new iPhone that we’ve acquired or that we want to acquire—we don’t see directly with our own eyes all the natural resources and all the human hardships that went into the production of that iPhone. Our attention tends to remain just at the surface with what we can see with our own eyes, even though all the information about what went into the production of the iPhone is available to us. We’re not looking at the longer or larger picture of where this is all coming from.” His Holiness used another powerful, everyday example to illustrate our interconnectedness and the common ground we all share of wanting to be happy and not wanting to suffer. “We may wear clothes here in the US, but most of those clothes aren’t made in the US,” he said. “They’re made in other countries, often developing countries. So developing compassion might involve giving rise to greater awareness of the conditions in the factories where our clothes are made and the hardships the people who work at those factories might endure. Compassion might involve giving rise to greater awareness about their difficult situation, in contrast to the pleasant situation we enjoy. With the purchase of clothing it seems that we get the good stuff, and they get the bad stuff. We get the good times, and they get the hard times.” Rather than merely sitting back and observing the situation, the Karmapa explained that our compassion also needs to be active and involved. “We can also see how sometimes we separate ourselves from the suffering of the world by regarding it as a show that we’re sitting back and watching,” he said. “For example, we might become aware of the suffering and difficulties that are happening in the Middle East. But we’re just kind of sitting back and observing as if it were a show to take in, not really involving ourselves by taking action or becoming more dedicated toward that situation. “Compassion means becoming more involved, taking more action, developing more dedication. And that means we need to take more risks. But our habit as human beings is that very few people seem to enjoy taking risks. We tend to be more comfortable in our habitual zone of having things

be easy and smooth for us. “Although we appear to be separate from others, we’re actually very close,” the Karmapa said. “The modern world is bringing that reality even more into the fore – our world is becoming smaller and we’re becoming even closer to everyone else we share the planet with. We’re sharing others’ experiences of happiness and suffering even more.” The first stage on his official tour of the United States brought the young Buddhist leader to Silicon Valley in California. He spent the day at Googleplex, touring its facilities, taking a ride in its prototype driverless car and giving a talk to Google staff. His talk at Google was prefaced with opening comments by Google’s only Tibetan employee, Sonam, who brought many members of the audience to tears with her personal reflections. After speaking movingly in Tibetan to the 17th Karmapa, she translated her comments into English for the audience. “Your presence here is like a dream for me,” she said. The Karmapa Rinpoche on his arrival at the San Francisco airport was given a warm welcome by Tibetans as well as international devotees, on Sunday, March 15. He first expressed his sheer joy at having this opportunity to spend two months in the United States. He then spoke of his own experience listening to the plans for him to deliver lectures on so many different topics at the various universities. “I appreciate their kind words, but all this praise puts me under a lot of pressure and puts me on the spot to say something important,” he said wryly. “I am not sure how I will perform under such pressure, but hopefully it will turn out well.” He went on to express his gratitude to everyone for showing him such a warm welcome, and singled out those who had exerted such efforts on behalf of this trip. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he said. “This is the first time I have had an opportunity to spend such an extensive amount of time in any foreign country,” he observed. “Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to offer my sincere thanks to the Indian Government, and to all my supporters and friends in India who helped to make this possible.”

in exile. But in Tibet in the early 1990’s, his words carried much greater consequence. On 12 March 1993, Topjor and six other monks left their monastery in Maldokungar and traveled to Lhasa, where they took part in a protest calling for Tibetan freedom. They cheered “Free Tibet,” and “Long live His Holiness.” All six of them were swiftly arrested by Chinese police and brought to Sangje jail where Topjor began the long experience that would be his incarceration. After being held for over a month, Topjor and the other monks were finally sentenced. Topjor, presumed by the Chinese to be the leader of the protest, was sentenced the longest of them all. For the next five years, Topjor was jostled between two different prisons where he was subjected to constant torture and interrogation. But he claims worse than that was the hunger. In one jail, Topjor received just one tiny tinmo with very little soup as his meal three times daily. In a second jail, Topjor shared one tray of tinmo with the other 11 prisoners in his room. Topjor claims that the worst form of torture came during his stay at Drapchi jail, also known as Lhasa Prison No. 1. Drapchi is the largest prison in Tibet and most notorious for violence. Before 1959, Drapchi was a military garrison, but it was transformed into a prison after Tibet’s so-called ‘liberation.’ There are several reports about the practices of Drapchi jail in 2001. One report said that 27 deaths occurred inside

its walls between 1987 and 2001. Topjor’s experience indicates that these reports are wholly accurate. He describes a tortuous process that he and the other political prisoners underwent, known as patriotic education. Patriotic education was a Chinese policy officially launched in 1996, though it is alleged that unofficial practices began well before then. Today it is known as the ‘Love Your Country, Love Your Religion’ Campaign. Perhaps first practiced in monasteries and nunneries and soon after spreading to the lay community and prisons, it operates with a five-point plan, forcing Tibetans to 1) oppose separatism; 2) embrace the unity of China and Tibet; 3) recognize the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama; 4) Renounce His Holiness the Dalai Lama; and 5) deny that Tibet has any claim to independence. Topjor underwent this cruel form of mental torture and continues to feel the effects today. He stated, “the biggest problem we faced in prison was patriotic education. It was during this process that we were most severely beaten, and many people died.” The Chinese government claims patriotic education to be a success, however the continuing flow of Tibetans into exile, the continued practice of self-immolation in Tibet and the number of deaths that have occurred at Drapchi Prison alone tell an alarmingly different story. Translated by Molly Lortie and Dawa Phurbu, the Tibet Post International

Former prisoner Topjor: My wish was and still is for a free Tibet

Former Tibetan political prisoner Topjor says his wish was and still is for a free Tibet. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu By Molly Lortie,, : March 30, 2015

Tibetan freedom imprisoned: Interview recap with Topjor, former political prisoner. Dharamshala –”My wish has not changed, it was and still is for a free Tibet.” These words come easily today from Topjor, who now is living safely

Essay Competition Announcement ‘Exhibition on H.H the Dalai Lama’s Body of work’ is a project that I initiated on 10th December 2012. In the past two and half years, I was able to conduct over forty-five presentations primarily in centers of learning and other places all over India. The aim of this project is to inculcate in the minds of the truth and peace-loving people, a sense of recognition and gratitude for the gift of wisdom bestowed by His Holiness on how to live a meaningful life. Moreover, it also seeks to spread words about the deeds and accomplishments of His Holiness throughout his life as a guiding light to us all.

Some of my forthcoming projects are as follow; 1) To conduct a scholar debate on His Holiness’s Thoughts & Ideas on Religion, Politics, Health, Environment, Compassion and other disciplines by a panel of experts related and intimate with His Holiness. 2) Reading comprehension contest on His Holiness’s multi-faced works in their proper disciplinary entity. 3) The ranking essays of this competition will be published in ‘Khongsa Chok-kyi khyenpa,’ which will be a journal of scholarly articles to be launched soon. Therefore, I request professional and other aspirant writers from everywhere to support me in this venture by contributing their articles on any of the following three topics.

Topics for Essay Competition; 1) Analyzing the purpose behind the Dalai Lama’s body of work and value of his ideas. 2) The Dalai Lama’s guide to an ethical way of life beyond religion. 3) The evolution and practical implementation of the Dalai Lama’s tenets of Peace & Non-violence. Essays in all kind of genre are entertained. There is no strict word limit, but try not to exceed beyond 2880 words. The deadline falls on 13th July, 2015. Submit the essays via email or post at the address mentioned below. Please make sure to leave your contact details. The essays can be written in Tibetan and English and will be judged by a penal of experts in a transparent and unbiased manner.

Awards and prizes for the top-ranking essays; • • • •

First second Third Consolation

• • • •

50 books by H.H the Dalai Lama or 25000 Rs (Either of them) 30 books by H.H the Dalai Lama or 20000 Rs (Either of them) 20 books by H.H the Dalai Lama or 15000 Rs (Either of them) 10 books by H.H the Dalai Lama to 10 winners

The winners are allowed to making his/her own decisions regarding prize books or money.

Note:

1) On any of the topics above, it is preferable to get an insight by referring books of His Holiness. 2) Try to inject not only your own ideas, but also the opinion of others in order to add analytical value to the essay. 3) Contact for further information.

Contact;

Gonpo Gyal Phone: +918679032180 Email: donnie5908@gmail.com

(Full Address)

Gonpo Gyal (M.A Student) C.H.T.S P.O Sarah, Dharamsala Distt. Kangra -176215 (H.P) INDIA

ALL THE BEST!!