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Five-Fifty is Tibet’s strategy for success: Dr Lobsang Sangay swornin for second term as Sikyong Vol. 04, Issue 156, Print Issue 80, May 31, 2016

Ex-political prisoner detained in Lhasa, Tibet

By Yeshe Choesang: May 31, 2016

Dharamshala — Chinese authorities have detained a former Tibetan political prisoner in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, on unknown charges.

Lodoe Gyatso, 55 from Sog County, Kham region of eastern Tibet, was taken away by Chinese police at night around 12am, on May 14, a local source told TPI. The present condition and whereabouts of him remain unknown, sources said, added: “The details of his arrest in Lhasa also remain unknown.”

After serving over 21 years in prison that included long-term torture and physical abuse, authorities released Gyatso from Chushur prison on May 3, 2013.

According to Mr Ngawang Tharpa, newly elected Tibetan MP, Gyatso’s case became a cause for international concern after authorities called for him to be executed after he and other inmates in Lhasa’s infamous Drapchi prison staged a large-scale peaceful demonstration on March 4, 1995.

Gyatso was born in Tsatak township, Sog (Chinese: Suo) county, Nagchu (Chinese: Naqu) prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). At the time of the Drapchi protest, Gyatso was serving a 15year sentence after an altercation in which he was attacked by another Tibetan in January 1993, resulting in the other man’s death.

While in prison, Gyatso met a number of Tibetans who had been convicted for political crimes. Together, they held a peaceful protest in which they shouted slogans calling for Tibetan independence and the unity of the Tibetan people across the country, as well as for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The prisoners distributed over 200 hand-written leaflets before authorities mobilized a severe crackdown.

Later Prison officials accused Gyatso of being the main organizer of the protest and appealed to the TAR Intermediate People’s Court in Lhasa to sentence Gyatso to death. News of the possible execution sparked international pressure, including by the then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, leading Chinese authorities to hand down a suspended death sentence that resulted in a six-year prison extension.

Despite his release, serious concerns remain for Gyatso’s health as a result of the torture he received in prison. The long-term physical abuse to which Gyatso was subjected included a monthlong confinement to a small, dark, solitary cell, during which authorities subjected him to daily interrogation and torture. The methods authorities used included hanging him in the air by his thumbs, resulting in permanent damage.

Tibetan MPs meet Speaker of Danish Parliament

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Newly elected Tibetan MPs, Speaker and Deputy Speaker sworn in

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His Holiness calls for concerted effort to resolve Tibet issue

By Jane Cook: May 27, 2016

Dharamshala — The most important aspect of the Tibetan movement should be to fulfill the aspirations of the majority of Tibetans who continue to remain inside Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, while calling for a concerted effort to resolve the issue of Tibet.

Dr Lobsang Sangay, the newly re-elected Sikyong, or political leader, was sworn in on Friday at a colourful ceremony attended by thousands of Tibetans and supporters, as he reaffirmed his commitment to the “Middle Way” approach of engaging China through dialogue to achieve a meaningful autonomy for Tibet.

Addressing a crowd at the ceremony in India’s quaint Himalayan town of Mcleodganj, to swear in Dr Lobsang Sangay as the political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration, His Holiness urged Tibetans to remain united on Friday, May 27, 2016.

“Tibet is called the roof of the world. Similarly, the rich Buddhist culture and tradition of Tibet is also one of the best traditions in the world,” His Holiness said, explaining that his statement is not borne out of loyalty but through reason.

“Over the years I have met numerous people, including scholars, scientists, politicians and spiritual leaders. In my interaction with these people, I have come to realise that the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, derived from the Nalanda tradition of India, is among the best, primarily because it is based in scientific analysis and logical study.”

“Many Buddhist traditions trace their root to Nalanda. However, Tibetan Buddhism seems the only one, which contains the purest essence of the tradition. It is truly a universal treasure, which the Tibetan people have preserved for centuries,” His Holiness said.

His Holiness also emphasised the importance of preserving Tibet’s script and linguistic traditions. “The Tibetan language is the only language wherein the pure essence of the Nalanda tradition is preserved. Therefore, it is extremely important to study and preserve it,” His Holiness said.

‘The most important aspect of the Tibetan movement should be to fulfill the aspirations of the majority of Tibetans who continue to

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the swearing-in ceremony of Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, 27 May 2016. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

remain inside Tibet. And emphasised that the Tibetan movement should be based solely on the principle of non-violence,’ His Holiness said while peaking on the Tibetan struggle.

“I have worked wholeheartedly for the Tibetan cause for over 57 years. However, I have devolved my political responsibility to an elected leadership since 2011 but I will continue to work for Tibet’s culture and religion,” His Holiness said.

“As Sikyong rightly pointed out, with our hard work and the generous

assistance of the Indian and other foreign governments and organisations, we Tibetans have reached a stage where we are unique among equals.

But it doesn’t mean we can get complacent,” His Holiness said, calling P- 2... for a concerted effort to resolve the issue of Tibet.

US officer who aided in Tibetan struggle dies

Tibetan writer Lomig is handed 7-year term on unknown charges

John Kenneth Knaus with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Photo: file

By Bart Barnes, The Washington Post: May 26, 2016

The two Tibetan Parliamentarians with with Ms Pia Kjærsgaard, Speaker of Danish Parliament. Photo: CTA/DIIR

By Yangchen Dolma: May 31, 2016

Tibetan Parliamentarians Mr Jigmey Jungney and Geshe Rongwo Lobsang Nyandrak went on a three-country official visit to Denmark, Sweden and Norway from 16 – 19 May 2016.

In the European country, the duo visited the capital and met with Tibet supporters, the Tibetan community and the Speaker of the Danish Parliament Ms Pia Kjærsgaard. They also met with staff of Danish government and other non-governmental organisations, according to the CTA report.

During their meetings, the parliamentarians spoke about the critical situation prevailing inside Tibet, the forced relocation of pastoral Tibetan nomads, the status of Tibetan religion and culture inside Tibet and the rebuilding of Tibetan monastic centers and institutes of learning in exile.

Two Tibetan monks detained in Ngaba

By Yangchen Dolma: May 26, 2016

Dharamshala — Chinese authorities in have detained two Tibetan monks living in Ngaba County, north-eastern Tibet, taking them separately into custody on charges that are still unclear, sources in the region and in exile said. The present condition and whereabouts of both remain unknown, sources said.

Lobsang Dargye, 35 and a monk at Ngaba’s restive Kirti monastery, was taken away by police at night on May 23, a local source told TPI, speaking on condition of anonymity.

‘He had been arrested once before and was sentenced in 2011 to a three-year term in prison, and after serving his three years he returned to Kirti monastery to continue his studies,” the source added.

No word was immediately available regarding why Dargye was detained, but local police had required the monk after his release to regularly report to them on his daily activities, the source said.

“He never complied with this order,” he said.

“This may have been the reason they detained him again,” the source said, adding, “Apart from this, he is not believed to have engaged in any illegal activities or broken any laws.”

Dargye’s Kirti monastery has been the scene of repeated selfimmolations and other protests by monks, former monks, and nuns opposed to Chinese rule in Tibetan areas.

Jampa Gelek, a 23-year-old Tibetan monk from Nyatso monastery in Tawu county, Karze, eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

By Yeshe Choesang: May 17, 2016

Dharamshala — A Tibetan monk, was arrested in Tawu county town, Kham region of eastern Tibet, on May 16, without giving any specific reasons.

“Jampa Gelek, a 23-year-old Tibetan monk was arrested by Chinese police, on Monday, May 16, 2016 at 8.24pm, while walking at a stupa ground,” Sonam, a Tibetan living in exile told the TPI. His current whereabouts and condition are unknown. The reason for his arrest is also not known, the TPI source said, citing local contacts. No other details were immediately available.

Gelek hails from Dziya village in Tawu county (Ch: Daofu) County, Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (TAP). He is a first year undergraduate doing his studies in Buddhist philosophy.

Tawu and the Nyatso monastery are centres of resistance to Chinese repressive rule. Several self-immolation protests have taken place across the County.

Chinese authorities have tightened controls in a bid to check self-immolation protests, arresting and jailing Tibetans linked to the self-immolation protests.

They also have stepped up the establishment of police stations in monasteries as part of their mechanisms of surveillance and control in recent years.

Nyitso monastery is located within Tawu county town and is populated by more than 200 monks (prior to the Cultural Revolution nearly 2,000 monks are believed to have been based in this area). It has more than 400 years of history and is recognized as a protected heritage site in the region.

Washington, DC — John Kenneth Knaus, a CIA case officer who in the late 1950s and the 1960s helped train and direct Tibetan guerrillas against Chinese occupiers, only to see U.S. support for the policy later evaporate, died April 18 at a hospital in Washington. He was 92.

The cause was an intracranial hemorrhage, said his son, John Kenneth Knaus Jr. During a 43-year CIA career, Knaus was based at times in India, Japan and Canada, and a substantial focus of his work involved aiding Tibetan guerrillas in their resistance against communist China.

After retiring in 1995, Knaus wrote two books based on his Tibetan experience, “Orphans of the Cold War: America and the Tibetan Struggle for Survival,” (1999), and “Beyond ShangriLa: America and Tibet’s Move into the Twenty-First Century” (2012). In his Los Angeles Times review, journalist and longtime China scholar Orville Schell called “Orphans of the Cold War” “superbly well-researched and written.”

Knaus first met Tibetans in 1958 when he was asked by the CIA to deliver a lecture to a group of “foreign nationals” on international communism and Chinese communism. This evolved into a program of support for Tibetan fighters challenging Chinese invasion and occupation of their country. It included training of 300 soldiers in guerrilla warfare at Camp Hale, Colorado, a site chosen for its physical similarities to Eastern Tibet, where the guerrillas would be airdropped.

Working from India and Colorado, Knaus was a key operations officer for this program.

But the guerrilla campaign was seriously flawed, Knaus wrote in “Orphans of the Cold War.” An airdrop, for example, attracted flocks of Tibetans to a drop site, but it also alerted the Chinese to a location for an effective attack. By the 1970s, support dwindled as the United States began to make diplomatic overtures to China.

“As Knaus concedes, the CIA trainers knew next to nothing about Tibet,” wrote Jonathan Mirsky, former East Asia editor of the Times of London, in a New York Times review of the book. “They thought of Buddhism only as the Tibetans’ religion and not as the bedrock of their nationalism. No agent had been to Tibet; only one knew any of its languages; and the maps they used to locate the first parachute drops for the Tibetans trained in Colorado had been drawn by a British expedition in 1904.”

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May 31, 2016

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His Holiness returns to Dharamshala, from Japan

By Harish K. Raman: May 16, 2016

Dharamshala — The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama returned to Dharamshala Sunday to a warm welcome by Tibetans and devotees following a successful five-day visit to Osaka, Japan, where he met separately with Chinese, Tibetans, Taiwanese and other devotees.

On his arrival at Gaggal Airport, His Holiness was received by top officials, including Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Deputy Speaker of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and representatives of the Tibetan community.

His Holiness on Friday concluded his four-day Buddhist teachings at the Osaka International Convention Center. During his visit to Japan from 9 – 13 May, His Holiness conducted a four-day teachings on Shantideva’s A Guide to the Bodhisatva’s Way of Life (Tib: Chodjug) at the request of his devotees from Japan, Taiwan, Mongolia, Singapore and Korea, at the Osaka International Convention Center, Japan.

His Holiness met a group of Taiwanese devotees and spoke to them for few minutes. His Holiness urged them to develop warm heartedness and compassion, at the same time, speaking about his inability to visit Taiwan in the last few years.

“As followers of the Buddha and the Nalanda tradition, we should use what we learn to develop a calm mind and generate inner peace.

“You’re all from Taiwan,” he continued. “I’ve visited several times and been impressed by how well ordered the country is. You are heirs to ancient Chinese culture and taking an interest in Buddhism, which is very good,” he said.

“For political reasons I have been unable to come again recently. Ma Ying-jeou was friendly when he was Mayor of Taipei, but became more aloof once he was President. It’s understandable and I don’t want to inconvenience anyone,” His Holiness said, adding: “From my side I’m ready to come, however I don’t want to discomfirt the government.”

Addressing a group of Tibetans in the audience, he described for them how in exile in India a Tibetan administration had been established early on and that it followed a democratic model. The steady progress of democracy meant that he had been able to semiretire in 2001 and to fully retire in 2011 devolving his political responsibility to the elected leadership. He stressed that his retirement did not reflect any sense of discouragement and that he eagerly continues to talk about and work for the preservation of Tibetan language and culture as well as its natural environment.

“I’m not shy,” he said. “We Tibetans are sharp. I am from Domey like Je Tsongkhapa and I have a sharp mind too.

Although I was quite lazy about my studies when I was young, the education and training I received in Tibet has equipped me to engage in fulfilling conversations with modern scientists over the last more than thirty years.

“People used to dismiss Tibetan Buddhism as Lamaism as if it was not an authentic Buddhist tradition. Now we declare that it is the heir of the Nalanda tradition and is the most comprehensive Buddhist tradition in the world today. In addition to studying classic treatises like Nagarjuna’s ‘Fundamental Wisdom’ and Maitreya’s ‘Ornament for Clear Realization’, we have translations of all seven of Dharmakirti’s works on logic and epistemology. We not only have translations of these books, we have a living command of their contents.

“Recently, when I was receiving medical treatment in the US, I heard that many Tibetans gathered to pray for me. I’d like to thank you and reassure you that I feel well. You don’t need to worry about me. Truth will prevail. China is changing. We will be together again.

For now, study what you can. Improve your education

and otherwise take things easily.”

Talking separately to some Chinese, His Holiness observed that wherever they are in the world, Chinese people preserve their identity and work hard. He said a sign of how China had changed over the last 40 years was the number of people who are again showing an interest in religion.

Now China has the largest Buddhist population in the world. As popular interests change the system will have to change too. He recalled that President Xi Jinping two years ago in Paris had clearly mentioned the important contribution Buddhism had to make to Chinese culture.

He repeated it in Delhi, an unexpected remark from the leader of the Chinese Communist Party.

“I’ve lived the greater part of my life in exile,” he told them, “but my health and energy are still good. I’m nearly 81 now. If I live to be 90 or 100 I hope still to be of some service to China and the Chinese people.

Please keep this in mind.

“I meet with quite a few Chinese these days. A few years ago I met with a group that included a poor farmer. I asked him about circumstances in his village.

He told me things were very difficult, that there was a huge gap between rich and poor.

Those of you who are now better off should try to help those in need. For example, I’m quite worried about education in remote parts of the country.

Meanwhile, Xi Jinping is trying to tackle corruption, but it is a big challenge.”

His Holiness gave the Upasaka vows on the lay people and Bodhisatva vows to members of the clergy in the audience. Conferring the vows, he urged the audience to refrain from the ten negative actions.

His Holiness then conferred the Manjushri permission to the public. His Holiness said that he received the Manjushri permission from his teachers including Khunu Rinpoche, Ling Ripoche, Trijang Rinpoche and Tagdra Rnpoche.

In the afternoon, a question and answer session was held, wherein, members of the public posed questions to His Holiness the Dalai Lama ranging from personal dilemmas to issues of politics, Buddhist doctrines, and philosophy.

Responding to a question about what is the best Buddhist tradition, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said that it is better to study several traditions so that one would have a broader outlook. He also added that all Tibetan Buddhist traditions are based on the Nalanda tradition even though there are minor differences.

The spiritual leader further clarified that it was because of such narrow mindedness that has stirred the Shugden issue. Proponents of the Shugden spirit advocate that Gelugpas should not touch Nyingma texts, which is a divisive attitude. He said that although he had propitiated the spirit himself at one time, he gave it up when he realised its drawbacks particularly its harmful attitude to other traditions.

He also advised about the harmful effects of consuming alcohol in response to a question posed by a woman who couldn’t stop her drinking habits. “Drinking in itself is not bad. However, the effects of drinking such as intoxication could impel you to commit negative deeds. Moreover, its also unhealthy as well. So if you cannot stop it completely, you should at least reduce the consumption gradually,” His Holiness said.

Responding to another question, His Holiness emphasised the importance of the monastic community, repeating the Buddha’s advice that where the Vinaya is observed the Dharma will flourish. He mentioned that there are aspects of Buddhist science and philosophy, such as its understanding of the workings of the mind and emotions, as well as the view of dependent origination, that may be helpful even to those not interested in Buddhism.

21 Years of Black Day: Hunger strike calls for Panchen Lama’s release

By Harish K. Raman: May 20, 2016

Dalhousie — Tibetans in Dalhousie town on May 17, Tuesday observed a ‘black day’ at the local Gandhi Chowk seeking the release of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the eleventh Panchen Lama, the second-most powerful figure in Tibetan Buddhism, from the Chinese captivity, who has been missing since he was six.

This event was organized by Tibetan People’s Movement for Middle Way, Tibetan Youth Congress and Tibetan Women’s Association.

On 14 May 1995, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was named the 11th Panchen Lama by the 14th Dalai Lama. After his selection, he was kidnapped by authorities of the People’s Republic of China and has not been seen in public since 17 May 1995.

On Tuesday this child completed his 21st year in captivity.

His Capture also assumes a political intervention by the Chinese establishment to have a say in the re-incarnation of the next Dalai Lama. The Chinese have also appointed their own Panchen Lama who is also refereed to as Panchen Dzuma(Fake Panchen).

Members of the Tibetan community also organised a 12-hour hunger strike to impress upon the Chinese authorities to start dialogues for the freedom of Tibet and for the earliest release of Panchen Lama.

The president of Indo-Tibetian Friendship, Dr. Dhillon, Tibetan Settlement Officer and Tibetan Local Assembly were the main chief guests during this event.

Their demands were:To release The 11th Panchen Lama and other political prisoners immediately.

Start Dialogue with envoys of His Holiness The Dalai Lama.

Stop genocide of Tibetan religion and culture and destruction of environment.

Dr (Capt) GS Dhillon, president of the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Society, Dalhousie, in his keynote address on this occasion said the present Tibetan community of Dalhousie had given it a very unique dimension through their very peaceful and tranquil disposition and supported their cause for the release of religiously designated 11th Panchen Lama.

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Hundreds of villagers plead for improvement of living condition in Tibet

Copies of the petition signed by hundreds of Tibetan villagers from Khanya Township, Drakgo County, Kham, eastern Tibet. Photo: RFA Mandarin

By Kalsang Sherab, May 24, 2016

Dharamshala — Hundreds of Tibetans in Khanya Township (Ch: Kaniang), Drakgo County (Ch: Luhuo), just signed a petition to plead to the local government to investigate the severe living condition in the township of Kham region, eastern Tibet. The latest development indicates clearly that Tibetans who live in rural areas are still facing deepening poverty in the face of China’s so-called economic prosperity.

The collective petition also urges the government to solve local troubles as soon as possible, including deteriorated transportation, insufficiency of electricity, difficult water access, backward in public health and education, and forest destruction, etc.

According to local contact, the Chinese government has deliberately ceased poverty alleviation and construction projects in Khanya Township since 2008, which has left the township in extreme poverty ever since. Collapsed road in the raining season, and snow-sealed mountain passes in the winter had trapped villagers in the mountains for several times. Food and accommodation in the township was in serious shortage during these natural disasters, while the government remains unresponsive.

Besides this, due to the lack of water and electricity, inconvenient communication, and malfunctioning transportation, school teachers were unwilling to stay. The only school in the township became the ‘empty house’, and children in the township were thus deprived of educational opportunities, sources told the Tibet Post International (TPI).

By contrast, the local government started to deforest without constraints, which facilitated water and soil loss as well as natural disasters. Regarding this, local Tibetans have reported to the relevant higher authorities for several times, but no response was given. They now hope to call for attention from institutions inside and

His Holiness calls for ...

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At the same time, His Holiness lamented the negative campaigns that took place in the lead up to the final Tibetan general elections. “I was pained to see the degradation of morality in our society and the overtones of regional loyalty during the election campaign. It is very unfortunate,” he said.

“The unity of the three traditional provinces of Tibet is of primary importance. Despite the passage of time, we have preserved our traditions and culture based on this unity of the three provinces for thousands of years. Therefore, we should do away with this warped sense of loyalty to regions and move on as one,” His Holiness said.

“Moreover, we are all followers of the Buddha. We should be embarrassed of what we have done during the election campaign. I don’t blame the majority. However, there are some fringe elements within the community who take pleasure in dividing the society on regional lines,” His Holiness noted, urging the Tibetan leaders, staff, and public to keep the unity of Tibetan people in mind.

His Holiness further called for a renewed emphasis on holistic education for Tibetan children. “There are over 150 thousand Tibetans in exile. We should not just be satisfied with a successful livelihood. We should focus on a holistic education for our children,” His Holiness said.

“Despite the great heights that modern education has reached, it is still inadequate when it comes to inner values.

It is obvious when you see that most criminals and antisocial elements are quite advanced in modern education.

Moreover, the prevalence of social ills like corruption and dishonesty are a result of the lack of moral principle in modern education,” His Holiness asserted.

His Holiness concluded his speech by extending his heartfelt greetings to the audience. “If you consider me your friend, please pay consider to what I have said. Then please be united irrespective of your region or religious lineage,” he told a the large crowd that had gathered to to witness the swearing-in of Dr Lobsang Sangay as prime minister of Tibet.

outside of Tibet through media report.

Multiple pictures of the local situation, include the signed petition received by the RFA Mandarin service showed that the Chinese government propagates their achievement in economic development and improvement of people’s livelihood; but in fact, the difficult situation in Khanya Township is a valid evidence to debunk this claim.

One local source pointed out six needs; Our Khanya Township has 400 households, and is 80 kilometers away from the Drakgo County. Due to the terrible road condition, collapse commonly happens along the way, and many car accidents thus occur; this is the first problem.

Secondly, the government constructed a small power station, which is almost derelict nowadays. Thus the electricity for living and production in this township has also been paralyzed. The seriously damaged electricity pole and low quality electricity cables have resulted in multiple accidents. During these accidents, some people died and some other were permanently disabled, but no compensation was provided.

Thirdly, the issue of water access is still not solved by the government, which has seriously impacted the health of both villagers and livestock.

Fourth, the telephone facility was not well built by the government. Almost in half of the full year, the telephone cannot be connected, but villagers have been required to pay for the telephone fee for the full year.

Fifth, the only school in the township is an empty shell, without teachers or students. This directly affects kids’ study and future.

Sixth, the housing quality and public health in

our township are largely lagged behind, and remain insecure. The so-called house-construction compensation, poverty alleviation subsidy, and health insurance allowance are not broadly implemented.

Villagers are complaining a lot about this.

In order to solve the issues above, 400 households in Khanya Township appealed again to the relevant authorities of the government, but no response was given.

The informant reflected, “On December 23 last year, all of the villagers signed the letter appealing to the local government, calling for relevant officials to investigate whether CCP’s beneficiation policy has been implemented. However, no response has been given ever since. Thus, we recently submitted a collective petition to the county’s government, calling for the government taking steps to alleviate the severe situation at the moment.” According to another local contact, this time, the collective case of appeal mainly mentions the problems of water and electricity, transportation, and deforestation, and so on.

The sources also revealed, “in our Khanya Township, trans-village roads, local power station, and mobile communication equipment are all jerry-built projects.

For example, the tap water only works at summer, and it is almost gone in the winter. The quality of the road is poor, and once it rains or snows, even motorbike cannot go through. The electricity and communication facility is usually cut off for long intervals.

“The facility is terrible, and even it breaks down, no people are sent to repair them. It caused accidents including, Jigme Wangchuk, a Khanya villager from Gyeda Village (Ch: Jizha, Luhuo county in Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China), was shocked to death by high-tension electricity cable; and Konchok Gyaltsen, another Khanya villager from Khanya Village, was disabled by mobile communication cables, and Metok Dolma, a Khanya villager from Lharo Village was crippled by deforestation; and so on. And those people who are killed or disabled did not receive any compensation from the government.”

The informant added, “the cow-stealing cases are becoming more and more serious in our township. It often happens, but the government has no response despite of our report. Deforestation is becoming more and more severe. Recently, the government cut down overtly amount of trees in our holy mountain, and reaped exorbitant profits. The whole mountain has been devastated, and forestry resource has severely damaged, which may result further water and soil loss, and frequent natural disasters.”

The informant told TPI that after submitting the signed statement again, the government has promised to take measurements. However, based upon past experience, in order to urge the Chinese government to improve the current situation of Khanya Township, Khanya villagers still wish for external attention and support.

Newly elected 44 Tibetan MPs, include Speaker and Deputy Speaker sworn in

By Yamgchen Dolma: May 31, 2016

Dharamshala — After newly elected Tibetan MPs being officially sworn in on Monday morning, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 16th Tibetan Parliament-inExile (TPiE) were elected in the afternoon that same day, with no woman contender in the running for the top post after the second round of voting.

As per the amendment made by the 14th TPiE on devolution of the administrative and political powers of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the three organs of Tibetan democracy, the members of the 16th TPiE took the oath of office from Pema Jungney who was sworn in as the interim speaker by Chief Justice Commissioner Kargyu Dhondup.

The speaker and deputy speaker, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok respectively, took the oath of office from the Chief Justice Commissioner Kargyu Dhondup on Tuesday at the Gangchen Kyishong in Dharmsala, India, on May 31, 2006.

Ven Tenphel served as Deputy Speaker of 15th TPiE, and a teacher at Namdroling monastery before being sworn in as the speaker of the 16th TPiE. In 2011, he received Doctorate in Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy.

Ven Phuntsok served as an academic administrator and Tibetan language teacher at the TCV School Suja, President of the National Democratic Party of Tibet and the Ngari Chithun Association, founder of the Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch (BTSM), and executive programme officer of the TPPRC, before being sworn in as the Deputy Speaker of the 16th TPiE. The swearing-in ceremony held at the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala, India, on May 31, 2016.

The oath of office was administered by Kargyu Dhondup, the Chief Justice Commissioner of the Central Tibetan Administration.

The PMs voted to elect their new Speaker and Deputy Speaker on Monday. Even after three rounds of voting, there was a stalemate between two MPs; Ven Tenphel and Mr Jungney, who got 22 votes

each for the post of Speaker.

As the race for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Parliament gets hotter in the evening, several MPs have expressed their views, before holding an internal discussion.

Finally, members of the parliament unanimously requested Sonam Choephel Shosur, the Chief Election Commissioner to accept both of them as Speaker on a time-sharing basis, to which he agreed. It was then reached a decision that the first half of the Speaker’s term – from 30 May 2016 to 30 November 2018 – will be chaired by Ven Tenphel while the remaining term will be chaired by Mr Jungney.

The election for the Deputy Speaker ‘s post was won

by Ven Phuntsok with 38 votes, against Dolma Tsering (4 votes) and Thupten Lungrik (2 votes).

Although electing two Speakers on a time-sharing basis is not specified in the Tibetan electoral rules and regulations, it is not unprecedented, as a similar thing has happened during the 14th TPiE between two Tibetan MPs, on May 31, 2006.

Ven Tenphel and Ven Phuntsok accompanied by the Secretary of the Parliamentary secretariat and their personal assistants, also visited the main temple (Tsuglagkhang) and Nechung Monastery and Gadhong monastery, on Tuesday morning.

In the Tibetan parliament, both the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are elected from among its members by a simple majority of members present and voting in the House. As such, no specific qualifications are prescribed for being elected as the Speaker.

However, the Charter of the Tibetans in Exile requires that Speaker and Deputy Speaker should be a member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. But, Parliamentary conventions and procedure play a major role while the Speaker or Deputy Speaker presides over all the sessions of the House and regulates procedure.

The TPiE, based in Dharamsala, which also serves as the seat of the Central Tibetan Administration, is the highest legislative organ of the exile polity.

Exile News 3 TPI NEWS I informed His Holiness about Five-Fifty is Tibet’s strategy for success: The new sworn-in Sikyong Public Health meeting: Sikyong The Tibet Post International

May 31, 2016

By Shalkie: May 27, 2016

129 Tibetan doctors, medical practitioners, hospital administrators and staff have gathered for the special meeting in Dharamshala, India, may 16, 2016. Photo: CTA/DIIR

By Kalsang Sherab: May 18, 2016

Dharamshala — Speaking to a Tibetan public health meeting in Dharamshala, India, on Monday, May 16, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay said that he informed His Holiness the Dalai Lama about this special meeting in response to His Holiness’ recent concern.

Sikyong inaugurated a special meeting organized by the Department of Health, Central Tibetan Administration, which was held at the Tibetan Reception Center from 16 -18 May. The theme of this special meeting was on the improvement and reinforcement of the overall public health services, disease prevention, and hospital administration of the Tibetan community in exile. Health Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchuk, together with 129 Tibetan doctors, hospital administrators, and health staff from all over India attended the meeting.

According to the CTA media, this meeting was a part of the Kashag’s endeavour to improve Tibetan preventive healthcare following His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s public criticism on the deteriorating situation of Tibetan public health on 23 March.

In his inaugural remarks, Dr Sangay expressed the aims and objectives of the special meeting. Sikyong also highlighted some urgent areas for improvement. Dr

Sangay said, “As invited by the health department, you all are gathered here today to deliberate on how to improve the overall Tibetan healthcare. I hope you will utilize your experience and knowledge of the issue to strengthen Tibetan public health which is the need of the hour.”

Sikyong further revealed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s serious concern on Tibetan public health, as he added, “I went to welcome His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Gaggal airport yesterday. At that time, I informed His Holiness about this special meeting. He expressed his appreciation and told me that he noticed lots of chronic patients in the settlements and the monasteries. He said that these are a result of neglect towards preventive healthcare and advised me to work on these issues.”

Speaking about the Kashag’s emphasis on public welfare and healthcare, Sikyong expressed his promise and determination to improve the poor section of the Tibetan community and develop the Tibetan public health. The three-day meetings have deliberated on seven agendas related to Tibetan public health. A list of proposals was formed regarding the further implementation of these agendas. These proposals will be submitted to the Kashag, and further measurement will be taken via the department of health and its branch offices and clinics.

The Tibet Museum portrays “truth about Tibet’s history”: Sikyong

By Shalkie: May 18, 2016

Dharamshala — The Tibet Museum of Department of Information and International Relations, CTA, commenced it’s three-day celebration of 39th International Museum Day by launching the museum’s exhibition catalog, “A Long Look Homeward” and a promotional video.

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay was the chief-guest and launched the catalog. Mr Sonam N. Dagpo, Secretary of DIIR launched the promotional video of the museum.

The Tibet Museum was established in 1998 and graced by His Holiness Dalai Lama, with the purpose to document, preserve, research, exhibit and educate on the matters related to Tibetan history, culture and the present issue.

The event saw Dr Sangay, Mr Tashi Phuntsok, Secretary of DIIR and Mr Tashi Phuntsok Director of the Tibet Museum addressing the audience on the importance and success of the museum in preserving the Tibetan culture, heritage and the stories of undying struggles of Tibetan

people under the Chinese oppression. The museum is the proof of China’s attempts to create a false image of contentment and prosperity in Tibet.

Speaking to TPI, Sikyong said “Tibet issue is an issue of truth and justice. Truth is on our side and Justice is what we deserve, so this is the truth about Tibet’s history, this is the truth about occupation and oppression. China’s narrative says that Tibet is happy and content with the Chinese government. This is our true narrative in response to Chinese narrative.”

His message to the current world leaders regarding their passive approach towards the Tibet issue is “What Tibetans are facing and suffering is real so if they see, they must stand for the basic principles of their country which they claim to be democracy and freedom for all”.

Every year May 18th is celebrated as International Museum Day with the participation 142 countries and more than 35,000 museums.

Dr Lobsang Sangay Wednesday, May 18, launching the “A Long Look Homeward” at the Tibet Museum in Dharamshala, India, on International Museum Day, in presence of DIIR secretaries; Tashi Phuntsok and Sonam N Dhakpo, and Tashi Phuntsok, Director of Tibet Museum. Photo: TPI/Harish K. Raman

Dharamshala — Dr Lobsang Sangay was sworn-in for the second time as the Sikyong of the Tibetan inexile government in presence of His Holiness Dalai Lama, thousand of Tibetans and Tibetan-supporters in the oath- taking ceremony on Friday, May 27, at the main temple in Dharamshala, India.

The ceremony was attended by thousands of Tibetans and Tibet supporters including Shri R K Khrimey, MLA and Advisor to the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh.

Mr Kargyu Dhondup, the Chief Justice Commissioner of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission administered the oath of office to the Sikyong elect. It was followed by congratulatory greetings by the two justice commissioners and the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in-Exile.

In his inaugural speech, Sikyong of the 15th Kashag (Cabinet), swore to continue the many tasks started by the 14th Kashag based on the founding principles of Unity, Innovation and Self-reliance, and proposed the strategy of five-fifty for the resolution of the issue of Tibet.

He began with expressing gratitude to his Holiness Dalai Lama. “Today, on this occasion of my swearing-in for the second term of Sikyong, we are all blessed with the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama gracing the ceremony as the Chief Guest. With many prostrations, I express my eternal gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for accepting our humble request. His Holiness has assured us of his long and healthy life. The Kashag pledges to strive fully in realizing the aspirations of the Tibetan people in his lifetime” he said.

He further extended his gratitude towards all the Tibetans in exile and swore to serve them to his fullest capacity for the common aspiration that provincially, regionally and religiously diverse Tibetans yearn for.

In the wake of the immoral behavior and misconducts of the candidates during the election campaign, Sikyong apologized on behalf of all saying “In the recent election of the Sikyong and Chithue [MPs], there have been a series of unfortunate events that went counter to the Tibetan tradition of humility and good conduct. This has greatly saddened and disappointed His Holiness the Dalai Lama. We ceaselessly beg His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his forgiveness. We all firmly pledge not to repeat these misconducts in future.

Likewise, I strongly urge all Tibetans to avoid divisive affiliations and stand strong in unity and harmony”. He also ensured of reforms in the rules and regulations

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay with His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the swearing-in ceremony, 27 May 2016, in Dharamshala, India.

Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

related to elections with the consultations of Election Commission of CTA. Addressing His Holiness’s concern, Sikyong further informed about the setting up of two committees for finding the loopholes and reasons for the weak welfare and health care system for the poor Tibetans in exile community.

He also warned the Dholgyal followers against calumniating His Holiness the Dalai Lama by their baseless allegations and expressed the 15th Kashag’s commitment to confront these matters.

Sikyong acknowledged and expressed his appreciation for the patriotic fervor as delineated by the self-immolators calling it as “supreme sacrifices”. “Their sacrifices will not go in vain.

I stand in solidarity with and express my sincere appreciation for the patriotic fervour that continues to burn in Tibet in all Tibetan hearts particularly the monastics, the scholars and writers, the teachers and students, the singers, the farmers and the nomads.

In order to exercise the right to administer internal affairs and be the masters of our own areas, I urge the youths in Tibet to put maximum efforts in their studies” he said.

For the resolution of the Tibetan issue, the Sikyong outlined the strategy of five-fifty on the lines of the Middle Way Policy. Explaining the strategy, he said “His Holiness the Dalai Lama has time and again advised us to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Therefore, I had proposed the strategy of five-fifty. In the next five years, it is clear that we

must put maximum efforts in achieving genuine autonomy for all Tibetans based on the Middle Way Approach. However, in case, we have to continue our struggle for many years, we need to strategize in order to strengthen and sustain our cause for the next 50 years.”

While speaking about preservation of Tibetan culture and national identity, Sikyong said: “We have to protect and preserve our unique Tibetan identity and tradition. We need to build selfreliance in the Tibetan world, in both education and economy. Five-Fifty is a strategy for success. In five years we can achieve genuine autonomy or in the next fifty years China will gradually change for the better. Either way we will gain basic freedom.”

He concluded his speech by thanking the state and central government of India, “the governments, the parliamentarians, the organizations and the individuals who have stood with Tibet” and His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his blessings and guidance.

Speaking to the gathering for the swearing-in of Sikyong, His Holiness urged Tibetans inside and outside Tibet to remain united, telling them that they must avoid the schism that is declining moral ethics.

“If you really consider me as your friend, then please be united irrespective of your region or religious lineage,” he told a crowd of over 2,000 Tibetans and supporters.

The ceremony concluded with a cultural performance by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.

World in reality has a lackadaisical approach to Tibet’s Panchen Lama

By Harish K. Raman: May 18, 2016

Dharamshala — Tibetans living-in-exile in D h a r a m s h a l a o n Tu e s d a y o b s e r v e d t h e ‘disappearance’ anniversary of the second-most powerful figure in Tibetan Buddhism, 11th Panchen Lama, who has been missing since he was six.

A discussion on the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama of Tibet, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima who happens to be termed by Human Rights organizations as the “youngest political prisoner in the world”.

On 14 May 1995, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was named the 11th Panchen Lama by the 14th Dalai Lama. After his selection, he was kidnapped by authorities of the People’s Republic of China and has not been seen in public since 17 May 1995.

On Tuesdady, May 17, he completed his 21st year in captivity. His capture also assumes a political intervention by the Chinese establishment to have a say in the re-incarnation of the next Dalai Lama. The Chinese have also appointed their own Panchen Lama who is also referred to as Panchen Dzuma(Fake Panchen).

“We are gathered here, we do not know his whereabouts, we do not know his address and we do not know where to send it, so through these letters, we are trying to create awareness about Panchen Lama, we are trying to tell the world that he has been abducted for too long and we are trying to tell the world that China has forcefully disappeared Panchen Lama and we do not know about his address,” an activist said.

The coalition of Regional Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for a Free Tibet and Regional Tibetan Women’s Association organized the “letters to Panchen Lama” and an open marathon race commemorative of the day.

The Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association held a panel discussion over the Panchen Lama’s disappearance where educationist and author Prof P.N Sharma and Ms Kalden Tsomo from the CTA’s DIIR spoke.

Tsering Tsomo, director of TCHRD, said that failing to provide any concrete evidence of Panchen Lama’s health conditions, whereabouts and proof of life makes the Chinese government guilty of his

enforced disappearance.

“The Chinese government can never hope to win the hearts and minds of the Tibetan people by using religion for political ends. The failure of the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama, Gyaltsen Norbu, to command genuine devotion and loyalty from the Tibetan people attests to this fact,” she added.

When asked about the United Nations resolutions and other documents being just recommendatory in nature and having no enforcing capabilities she mentioned that the UN is like a toothless tiger which without having any measures to force or impose changes focuses on talks between nations and hence takes a lot of time, this has also been used by the Chinese establishment as a loophole numerous times in the past.

Prof P.N Sharma when asked how India’s passive approach to china is going ahead, he called the government lackadaisical in its approach and gave numerous instances in history right from 1962 attack, the building of dams on the Tibet plateau through which a lot of fresh water as a resource has been denied to other Asian countries etc. He also mentioned that this country is now facing a drought scenario in several areas.

He further said that not only India but several countries in the world are equally taking a passive stance as who portray themselves as democracies which say that they respect the value of human life and the rights that come with it are simply not wanting to bell the cat.

“The perspective on Panchen Lama is both bleak and brilliant. It is bleak because the party on the other side is a shameless example of humanity. After the occupation of our land, the Chinese have pursued policies that have not only looted and destroyed the civilisation, culture, monastic system and all that Tibet stood for, they had the temerity to pass law to control incarnations and monastery,” said Sharma.

“His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama have been complimentary to each other, in the sense that both have helped in selection of the successor of one another and in education of one another. Now the Chinese have passed a law that no lama can be considered valid unless he has been recognised by the Chinese government,” he said, arguing that the CCP as an atheist government has no credibility to interfere in the religious practice of Tibetan people.

Tsering Lhamo, Tibetan Settlement Officer Dharamshala, Kalden Tsomo, head of the DIIR UN, EU & HR Desk, Mr Ajai Singh, President of ITFA (c), Prof P.N Sharma, Ven Yeshe Phuntsok, member of TPiE during the panel discussion on 11th Panchen Lama which was held at Hotel Tibet, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, India, May 17 2016. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu

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Dharamshala — “Voice of Tibet”, an independent radio station based in Norway transmitting shortwave radio programmes in the Tibetan language as well as Mandarin Chinese celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The event was celebrated at Imperial Heights Resort, Khanyara, Kangra valley in Dharamshala, on Saturday evening, May 14. Dongchung Ngodup, former Kalon of Department of Security, was the chief guest on the occasion.

Other participants of the special event were Sonam Chomphel Sosur, the Election Commissioner, DIIR Secretaries; Sonam Norbu Dagpo and Tashi Phuntsok, Maria Dahle, Chairman for the board of the Stiftelsen Voice Of Tibet, Øystein Alme, the director of the Stiftelsen Voice Of Tibet, and representatives of the Tibetan media and NGOs. Dongchung Ngodup spoke about the importance of defending press freedom and how the exile media should continue their works in the right direction. He said Tibetan journalists too have equal responsibility in advancing the cause of Tibet. On the contrary he believes that VOT has contributed much towards the Tibetan cause through their work in journalism, while serving the Tibetan Community.

As we are refugees in another country, the Tibetan journalists also must remember that the Tibetan freedom struggle, which should continue to always be the top priority,’ he said while speaking about the concept of press freedom in exile.

The VOT, is a radio station operated by Tibetans living in exile in the Himalayan town of Dharamshala, India.

VOT has “trained more than 40 journalists, many ex-VOT are working as journalists in other media organizations, while serving the Tibetan community,” Editor-in-Chief of the radio station, Tenzin Paldon said while giving a brief history of her news agency.

Maria Dahle, who is also Executive Director of Human Rights House Foundation (Norway) talked about the challenges they faced for many times while trying to improve the news agency. She expressed her gladness over the Tibetan women, who are playing a great role in their career. “Tenzin Paldon is the first female editor-in-chief of Voice of Tibet,” she added. Øystein Alme praised late Kunsang Paljor, a former senior reporter of the news agency, best known for his life’s work, saying that “his legacy will remain with them for a long.” Mr Alme also spoken about challenges they faced during two decades, including the Chinese jamming radio transmissions from VOT and saying it is “a violation of basic human rights.”

On behalf of the news agency, VOT’s Senior editor

Tenzin Norsang gave a thank-you speech. During the event, traditional Tibetan songs and dances were also performed, by the Dharamshala based Thangtong Lhugar Tibetan Performing Arts.

VOT has been airing daily programmes in both Tibetan and Chinese on shortwave to Tibet and China as well as India, Bhutan and Nepal since 1996.

In the introduction, VOT said its main “objectives

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Contributors to this editon Jane Cook UK Kalsang Sherab US Victor Reyes US Steve Shaw UK Harish K. Raman India Shalkie India Yeshe Choesang India Choenyi Sangpo India Keary Huang Taiwan Dawa Phurbu India Yangchen Dolma India Himalayan Literacy Trust Room #, Top Floor, New Varuni House Temple Road, McLeod Ganj: 176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P., India

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TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Extend an invitation to clients you enjoy spending time with. Your ability to stand out in a crowd will bring you the recognition you desire. You may want to get involved in some kind of creative group. Enlist the aid of family members and consider the feelings of your mate. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

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CANCER (June 22-July 22) Make sure you concentrate if operating machinery or vehicles.

You can make career changes that may put you in a much higher earning bracket. Unreliable people will be negative about your ideas. You will meet some interesting people if you at tend promotional functions. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Stick to your work and avoid emotional confrontations. Social events should be the highlight of your day. Your accomplishments could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure. Don’t turn down an invitation or a challenge that could enhance your chances of meeting someone special. You will be encouraged to get involved in a moneymaking venture. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Entertainment should include the whole family or a lot of your friends. Your ability to come up with good solutions for problems related to work will no doubt help you in getting a promotion.

Opportunities for new romantic encounters will unfold through the social events you attend. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately.

Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You can accomplish a great deal. You must act quickly.

You should check out prestigious clubs or groups that have a cause you believe in. Be primed to use your intellect in order to get what you want. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. This is not the best day to visit relatives who get on your nerves.

Listen to the advice given by others. Consider starting a small business on the side. Look for a marketable gimmick. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You must refrain from overspending on entertainment.

Your magnetic, outgoing personality will capture hearts. You can persuade even the toughest opponents to think your way. Think twice before you agree to take on any new projects. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Stabilize your own position by locking up your savings.

Be precise in your communications to avoid any misunderstandings and arguments. Insincere gestures of friendliness may be misleading. Draw up contracts regarding your personal situation. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thursday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don’t overspend on entertainment, on children, or make poor investments. Secret enemies will be eager to spread rumors about you. It’s time to make professional changes. Sign up for tours or courses that will enlighten you. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Changes in your home may be alarming at first. You can learn valuable information if you listen and observe what others are doing and saying. Kick your shoes off and relax. Don’t take sides if you wish to remain on good terms with both parties. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

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His Holiness extends sympathy over Sri Lankan tragedy

By Yeshe Choesang: May 23, 2016

Dharamshala — The spiritual leasder of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his condolences over the flash floods and landslides in Sri Lanka.

In a letter to Maithripala Sirisena, the President of Sri Lanka, His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his sadness on learning of the the loss of life and widespread damage to property following some of the worst torrential rains in several years, in the island country.

His Holiness expressed deep sympathy to the Sri Lankan government and people in the stricken areas and conveyed profound prayers for the well-being of those who were injured or lost their homes.

“I offer prayers for those who have lost their lives as a result of this natural disaster and would like to express my sympathy and condolences to their families and others who are suffering as a result of this tragedy.”

“As a mark of my sympathy and solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka, I have asked the Dalai Lama Trust to make a token donation towards the relief and rescue work.”

Since Monday, May 22, at least 82 people have reportedly died from floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains, as the island nation experiences its worst flood disaster in over a quarter of a century, brought on by days of torrential downpours.

The country has made an appeal for aid as it faces a humanitarian disaster, which has caused 500,000 to evacuate their homes.

The authorities said that 118 people remained missing in floods triggered by the heaviest rains in the region. They also said tha the death toll is likely to go up as rescue teams reach some of the worst-hit areas.

The national Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said that 21 of Sri Lanka’s 25 districts

have been badly affected due to the floods and landslide. The military said the search for the missing persons is on in Aranayake where 43 bodies have been pulled out from the debris.

Many countries are bringing in aid supplies such as blankets, water-purification tablets and drinking water.

Meanwhile, floodwaters were receding in the capital Colombo and in the Western province’s Kelaniya and Kaduwela areas. International aid began arriving in Sri Lanka yesterday, bringing help to lakhs of people driven from their homes by heavy rains and deadly landslides.

The United Nations has pledged to support the Sri Lankan Government in its efforts to respond to the needs on the ground. UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Una McCauley, today met President Maithripala Sirisena and discussed flood emergency needs.

have reported an increase in political repression, serious human rights violations and restrictions on Human rights defenders, lawyers, journalists, writers and activists in China, Tibet and other regions.

But, this is also a clear message to Beijing that Taiwanese people cherish these characteristics of their society and their self-rule more than economic ties with China. The “stable and peaceful development of the cross-Strait relationship must be continuously promoted”, she said, calling on both sides to “set aside the baggage of history, and engage in positive dialogue, for the benefit of the people on both sides”.

What may also irk China is her focus on Taiwan’s democracy and freedom - saying it’s every Taiwanese person’s responsibility to safeguard this. A recent poll shows, most Taiwanese do not subscribe to the “one China” policy, or the idea that Taiwan is part of China, a survey conducted by the Taiwan Cross-Strait Policy Association showed.

According to the survey, 59.7 percent of respondents said that president-elect Tsai Ing-wen “should not state in her inauguration speech that both sides [of the Taiwan Strait] belong to ‘one China,’ while 22 percent said she should,” association secretary-general Anson Hung told a news conference in Taipei.

“Asked if they think Tsai should give in if China openly threatens to reduce the number of Chinese tourists to Taiwan, 60.4 percent said they still believed that she should not say Taiwan and China are parts of ‘one China,’ while 24.7 percent said she should,” Hung said.

Tsai also made no explicit mention of the concept that Taiwan is a part of China, which Beijing says is crucial to the entire relationship. Tsai called for Taipei and Beijing to “set aside the baggage of history, and engage in positive dialogue, for the benefit of the people on both sides.”

However, The democratically elected President of Taiwanese people said her administration would “work to maintain peace and stability” in relations between the sides. However, she added that Taiwan’s democratic system and the will of its 23 million people must be respected in the course of cross-strait dialogue.

She has shown her bravery by addressing cross-strait policy and Taiwan’s relationship with China. In her speech, Tsai referred to Taiwan as a “Country” 24 times, which is sure a positive message to her Taiwanese people and the rest of the world, to anger the Chinese communist regime in Beijing.

But, in April, Taiwan accused China of carrying out “gross violation of basic human rights” after 45

Taiwanese were deported from Kenya to mainland China. They were then paraded on Chinese state TV confessing to crimes they had been acquitted for in Kenya.

The government of Tsai’s predecessor Ma Ying-jeou repeatedly endorsed the one-China principle and socalled “92 consensus.” During its eight years in power, Ma’s government reached a series of economic and civil agreements significantly increasing interactions between the two sides.

China forcefully maintains that Taiwan must unify with China eventually, even by military force if necessary.

However, Taiwanese public opinion is strongly against any sort of political union between the sides, instead favoring the status of de facto independence and robust social and economic interactions.

New Taiwan president calls to safeguard freedom and democracy

His Holiness the Dalai Lama meeting with special guests and youth leaders from 16 countries, in Dharamshala, India, on May 3, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

By Shalkie: May 26, 2016

Mexico City — The spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Mexican journalist Carmen Aristegui topped the list of most admired people among Mexican Internet users according to the pollster YouGov. An “admiration score” developed by the market research firm for its World’s Most Admired survey put Aristegui at the top of the list of most admired women among Mexicans, followed by U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama, Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, actress Angelina Jolie and U.S. presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton to make up the top five.

After His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the most admired men were Microsoft’s Bill Gates, President Barack Obama, physicist Stephen Hawking and actor Johnny Depp, Mexico News Daily reported.

There were just four Mexicans on the men’s list, led by businessman Carlos Slim in seventh place, soccer player Javier Hernández in 13th, Joaquín Guzmán in 18th and President Enrique Peña Nieto in 23rd (just ahead of another U.S. presidential hopeful, Donald Trump).

Even Russian President Vladimir Putin made the top 30 in Mexico, placing ahead of Peña Nieto (and one behind Guzmán) at 19th.

On the women’s list were four Mexicans in addition to Aristegui. They were writer Elena Poniatowska in sixth place, actress Salma Hayek in eighth, actress

and Guzmán associate Kate del Castillo in 14th and politician (and wife of former president Felipe Calderón) Margarita Zavala, who wants to run for president in 2018, in 19th spot.

Actors, singers, politicians and soccer players were among the majority on both men’s and women’s lists of the most admired.

Internationally, Bill Gates topped the list of most admired men, followed by Barack Obama, China’s Xi Jinping, actor Jackie Chan and Stephen Hawking.

Angelina Jolie topped the women’s list, followed by Queen Elizabeth II, Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama.

Vladimir Putin placed sixth and Donald Trump 18th.

YouGov conducts its poll by first asking for nominations from panelists in 30 countries, each of whom is asked to name the person he or she most admires. From those names a list is compiled of the 20 men and women who received the most nominations, with an additional 10 popular people added to the lists for individual countries.

People in each of the 30 countries were then polled online for multiple selections of whom they admired and one selection of whom they admired most. The results were combined to create the admiration score.

YouGov qualified its results by noting that Internet penetration was so low in 10 of the countries that the sample could only be said to be representative of the online population. Mexico was among those.

Increased repression in Tibet under “Stability Maintenance”: HRW report

By Shalkie: May 24, 2016

Dharamshala — New York-based Human Rights Watch’s latest 86-page report on Tibet reveals increase in suppression by the Chinese authorities on Tibetans under their “Stability Maintenance System” campaign.

Study of 479 cases between 2013-2015 shows the deteriorating tolerance and increasing severity of the detentions, prosecution and convictions for peaceful dissent, the kinds that are allowed under the Chinese and the international law.

The policies under this campaign has granted the government a close surveillance and massive control over the Tibetan society, especially in the rural and areas previously not associated with dissent. “Our research found that many of those detained and prosecuted were local community leaders, environmental activists, and villagers involved in social and cultural activities, as well as local writers and singers.” The report shows a stark increase in detentions from the rural areas for activities previously considered not so significant crimes by the Chinese government.

“Tibetan areas are the forefront of the Chinese government’s country-wide crackdown on peaceful dissent,” said Sophie Richardson, China director.

“The authorities are treating all Tibetans as potential dissidents and are trying to extend surveillance to the entire Tibetan community.”

Previously unpublished documents reveal the devastating cost paid by a local community for a single protest, the Rights Watchdog said. In April 2013, the trial and conviction of three lamas from Chamdo in the Tibet Autonomous Region for a minor charge of “harboring a criminal” led to police employing waves of collective punishment, intimidation, and repression throughout the wider community for over a year as they sought to find other suspects.

The Chinese authorities detained, beat, and threatened scores of local Tibetans, and subjected others to political indoctrination and travel restrictions in an apparent attempt to obtain information about key suspects and deter further dissent.

Of the 479 detainees, 153 were reported to have

been sent for trial, convicted, and sentenced to imprisonment. The average sentence they received was 5.7 years in prison.

According to the report, “Among those who received the longest sentences were people who tried to assist victims of self-immolations, leaders of protests against mining or government construction projects, and organizers of village opposition to unpopular decisions by local officials.”

In the previous three decades, the authorities rarely accused such rural Tibetans of involvement in political unrest. Human Rights Watch identified seven protests, five of them with more than a hundred participants, in which villagers demanded the release of a detained community leader. The detention of local leaders and their communities’ mass support for them appears to be a new phenomenon.

Further, the report mentions “shift in the epicentre of detentions” from Sichuan province from 2008 - 2012 to Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) in 2013.

The report further explains that under the policies of the campaign, the transfer of Chinese officials to villages and monasteries in the TAR with roles to implement new management, security, and propaganda operations, and the deployment of nearly 10,000 police in Tibetan villages in Qinghai gave rise to more organized surveillance over villages and towns. This in turn have led to surging protests and the subsequent harsher detentions.

The localities which have become grounds for repeated protests have been identified as the “cluster-sites” and subsequently face greater number of politicized detentions and longer period of sentencing in comparison to other areas.

The ill treatment of the detainees continues to be a serious concern as the report showed that 14 of the 479, died in the custody or shortly after the release.

“If the goal of the ‘stability maintenance’ campaign was to wipe out dissent among Tibetans, it has failed to do so,” Richardson said, added: “The basis of real stability is for China’s government to respect rights, understand and respond to local grievances, and roll back abuses by security forces across the plateau.”

Tsai Ing-wen, the new president of Taiwan. Photo: File

By Keary Huang: May 20, 2016

Taipei — Tsai Ing-wen has been sworn in as the new president of Taiwan, becoming its first female leader and saying to her people “committed to the defence of our freedom and democracy as a way of life”.

The ceremony got off to a traditional start: At 9am local time, Tsai appeared with exiting president Ma Ying-jeou. Vice president Chen Chien-Jen appeared beside Tsai at the ceremony. A military parade and a display of Taiwanese history were held in the capital in celebration.

The event involves thousands of military personnel as well as school children and artistic performances. After Tsai’s ceremonial acceptance, the island’s aboriginals were honored, with members of various ethnic tribes performing a folk dance. Then, rock bands played songs in Mandarin and Taiwanese.

In her inaugural speech, she said Taiwanese people had shown they were “committed to the defence of our freedom and democracy as a way of life”. Democracy and freedom to the world mean openness and collectivism in the 21st century, so the 23 million people of Taiwan will likely continue to trust Ms Tsai, for .

The message seems clear to China, where a decade-old totalitarian regime, has no option but to implement the only idea and to continue its threat of military action against the Island. However, Tsai said in her speech that she respected the “joint acknowledgements and understandings” reached between the sides at a landmark 1992 meeting seen by China as underpinning all subsequent contacts and agreements.

However, since Xi Jinping took office, many governmental and non-government organisations

US Officer who aided ...

(continued from front page)

John Kenneth Knaus, who lived in Washington, was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on May 30, 1923. After Army service in World War II, he graduated from Stanford University, where he also received a master’s degree in political science.

He joined the CIA in 1952. His last post before retiring was CIA officer in residence at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. In retirement, he was a research associate at Harvard’s Fairbank Center for East Asian Research (now the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies).

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Lois Ann Lehman Knaus of Washington; three children, Maggie Knaus of Toronto, Holly Knaus of Silver Spring, Maryland, and John Kenneth Knaus Jr. of Chevy Chase, Maryland; and four grandchildren.

Soon after his retirement from the CIA, Knaus spoke with the Dalai Lama, who in 1959 had fled to India from Tibet and headed a Tibetan government in exile.

Knaus asked whether U.S. support for the Tibetan guerrillas in the 1950s and 1960s had been helpful.

“Thousands of lives were lost,” he quoted the Dalai Lama as having said in “Orphans of the Cold War.” Furthermore, the spiritual leader said the U.S. intervention in Tibetan affairs had principally been a Cold War tactic to challenge China.

In “Orphans of the Cold War,” Knaus said that one of his reasons for writing the book was “to alleviate the guilt some of us feel over our participation in these efforts, which cost others their lives, but which were the prime adventures of our own.”

Tibetan Flag unfurled in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protests

By Shalkie: May 19, 2016

Dharamshala — A three-day trip by a highranking Chinese government official was met with protests by the pro-democracy supporters as the semi- autonomous Hong Kong tightens under Beijing’s grip.

Zhang Dejiang on his arrival on May 17, Tuesday faced protestors unfurling banners that read, “I want genuine universal suffrage” and “an end to Chinese communist one-party rule”. These were similar to the ones seen during the 2014 Umbrella Revolution.

Among the protestors were an old couple, Uncle Wong and Mrs. Wong who displayed the Tibetan national flag proposing the right to self determination for Tibet as well as for Hong Kong. Uncle Wong reportedly said, “Hong Kongers need self determination.Tibet people need self determination, too,” according to activist Rose Tang’s Facebook post.

According to a recently surfaced video, a woman also unfurled the Tibetan flag. “An unidentified woman holding a Tibetan flag is mobbed by a dozen police officers who try to grab the flag from her. The male voice in the video: ‘I have my rights to protest.’ The female voice: ‘Down with the Communist Party!’

It’s not known if she has been arrested,” says Rose Tang’s Facebook post.

Despite heavy security, Hong Kong authorities had to increase the police deployment for Zhang’s business

conference on Wednesday. Throughout his visit, the pro-democracy and the pro- China demonstrations were reported.

Zhang Dejiang is the chairman of National People’s

Congress Standing Committee and a top official of the Hong Kong and Macau affairs office. He was in Hong Kong to speak at a business conference on ‘One belt, one road project’.

A Tibet supporter holding a Tibetan flag is mobbed by a dozen police officers who try to grab the flag from her, in Hong Kong, on May 17, 2016. Photo: TPI

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TPI NEWS

May 31, 2016

Back Page Focus

Mining protest repressed in Amdo, Tibet, several beaten and detained

Mining protest in Akhori Township in Ngaba, Amdo, north-eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

By Kalsang Sherab, May 25, 2016

Dharamshala — In order to mine the minerals at the holy Mountain in Akhori Township Chuchen County, Ngaba, Amdo Tibet, the Chinese government started road construction in the name of building a new power station. This behaviour instigated protests among local Tibetans. The Chinese government then took steps to repress the protests, and sent policemen to assault Tibetans and take local people into custody. Last Friday (May 20), the government sent more police to Akhori Township to threaten and

intimidate the local Tibetans.

According to a local contact in Chuchen County (Ch: Jinchuan, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan), Tibetans in Akhori Township started a protest against government-supported mining on March 28th, 2016. However, the police repressed this protest, and a clash between the police and local Tibetans followed. During this fight, 20 Tibetans were beaten up, 7 people were detained for 7 to 20 days, and some of them were severely injured due to the police’s physical attack. This Tuesday, Tibet Post

Mining protest in Akhori Township in Ngaba, Amdo, north-eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

Official documents of detainment and administrative penalties in Chinese. Photo: TPI

Official documents of power station project in Chinese. Photo: TPI

International (TPI) also received a series of photos about this case from a local source.

The local sources told TPI, ‘Akhori Township in Chuchen County is in a high-altitude nomad region, occupying a large area of old-growth forest. Since ancient times, this place has been a holy place for Tibetans, and thus protected from destruction.

However, a minority of profit-driven enterprises and short-sighted officials ignore the constant appeal and objections from local Tibetans. They dared to develop this holy land without having any communication or negotiations with local people.

Besides this, they also stole the yaks, hunt wildlife, and destroyed the local natural ecosystem. This led to the vicious conflict between the police and the local people.’

According to the local contact, ‘Since the March 2013, the government has used the construction of power stations as an excuse to target local mine resources. To this end, construction workers were brought into the Akhori Township and were prepared to exploit a holy mountain, which is shared by pilgrims from four villages. Being repeatedly dissuaded by representatives and nomads from four villages, the government brought the mining to a stop. However, on March 28 this year, more construction workers entered Akhori Township, and an excavator and a loader were started to construct the road. After knowing this, around 200 nomads immediately went to the site and tried to intervene, hoping the operation could once again be brought to an end.’

‘On the same day, both police chief and police deputy of the County Police Office, together with the head of the township and other officials, came to the site. However, these officials turned a deaf ear to the nomads’ objections; instead, 80 or more policemen were sent to intervene. Meanwhile, a physical conflict occurred between the police and local people. This incident resulted in 20 nomads being beaten up, and seven people being taken into custody, including a 60-year-old man. They were detained for seven days, 15 days, and 20 days separately. Some of them were seriously injured at the time of release,’ TPI source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“Four kilometers away from the most holy mountain a Tibetans in Akhori Township, the balance of resources and environment has already been damaged. Yet the government claimed that they would build two more large-scale power stations as planned, within 4 kilometers from the holy mountain. However, the construction workers confessed that their final goal was to mine the minerals. Four representatives of four villages, including Akhori, in our township once submitted an urgent petition to higher authorities, pleading with the government to protect the local environmental resources.

However, governmental officials warned them that, anyone hampering the construction plan would be sent to the prison without exception. The representative of all Tibetans in Akhori Township have also submitted appealing letters, pleading letters, and specific letters to relevant officials, reporting the collective incident on March 28th this year. The letters ask the government to attend to this incident with justice - to protect the land that the nomads live on, respect the religion of nomads, and stop destroying the ecological environment. The petition is against the abuse of power from the police who detained the nomads, violated their freedom, and arbitrarily undermined their dignity.”

The local contact reflected that the government has been unwilling to hear the nomads’ appeals. On the 20th of this month, more police were dispatched to the Akhori Township, threatening to prosecute the nomads who obstruct construction. Regarding this coercive control from the government, nomads became frustrated, and hoped for an intervention and support from world environmental organizations.

The local contact added, “whatever violent means the government would use, the determination and resolution to protect the holy mountain from local people has not been diminished.”

“Tibetans in Akhori Township will keep on negotiating the situation with the government without fear. Last Friday (May 20th), a large group of police entered the Akhori Township by vehicles.

They went on patrol, using amplifiers to threaten and intimidate the nomads.

The nomads were told not to obstruct the ‘construction project’, otherwise, they will face fines, detainment, or other administrative penalties.

Although the nomads were still protecting the holy mountain, it is hard to say how long they can persist under conditions of oppression and violence,” TPI source further said, adding: “Hence, all the Tibetans in Akhori Township wish to call for global attention in attending to their situation via the media, especially attention from environmental organizations, in the hope of a critical intervention that might lend support to the nomads, as soon as possible.”

The Tibet Post International

For Tibet’s Culture, I want to selfimmolate: Monk reportedly said

The national flag of Tibet and Free Tibet banner placed inside Jampa Gelek’s room, Tawu Nyatso Monastery in Kham region of eastern Tibet. Photo: RFA Mandarin

By Harish K. Raman, May 19, 2016

Dharamshala — Latest source emerges that the arrest of Jampa Gelek, a monk from Tawu Nyatso Monastery, came after Chinese authorities reportedly found information that he might set himself on fire, to protest against Chinese rule in Tibet.

“After Gelek was taken away at around 8:30pm, May 16, another group of security officials raided his room again at around 11:00 p.m.,” the source, Yama Tsering, a monk living in South India told the TPI. According to local sources, after Jaampa Gelek was captured at night, police raided the Nyatso monastery quarters where he lived and have found a picture of his with the national flag of Tibet in the background. The TPI source mentioned that police might have heard him declaring that; “For Tibet’s Religion and Culture, I want to Self-Immolate”.

“Another reason may have been that he had declared his intention to stage a selfimmolation protest last year, though family members later stopped him from doing so,” the local source mentioned.

Separately, a second Tibetan source with contacts in Tawu confirmed the above source’s account of Gelek’s detention, adding that police on searching Gelek’s room had found a Free Tibet slogan written in English on a wall.

As per TPI sources he is presently being held in Chengdu Prison, about 320km from Dartsedo (Ch:

Kangding) county, eastern Tibet.

Jampa Gelek, a Tibetan monk, who was a first year undergraduate of Buddhist philosophy, was arrested while walking at a stupa ground in Tawu county town, Kham region of eastern Tibet, on May 16, without giving any specific reasons.

Gelek hails from Dziya village in Tawu county (Ch: Daofu) County, Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (TAP).

Tawu and the Nyatso monastery are centres of resistance to Chinese repressive rule. Several self-immolation protests have taken place across the county.

Chinese authorities have tightened controls in a bid to check self-immolation, protests, arresting and jailing Tibetans linked to the self-immolation protests.

A total of 143 Tibetans have now set themselves on fire in self-immolations protesting against Chinese oppression since the wave of fiery protests began in 2009.

Nyitso monastery is located within Tawu county town and is populated by more than 200 monks (prior to the Cultural Revolution nearly 2,000 monks are believed to have been based in this area).

It has more than 400 years of history and is recognized as a protected heritage site in the region.

They also have stepped up the establishment of police stations in monasteries as part of their mechanisms of surveillance and control in recent years.