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Miss Tibet pageant 2016 concluded, Tenzing Sangnyi crowned
Tibet hacktivists target Chinese mining company Vol. 04, Issue 157, Print Issue 81, Jume 15, 2016 China warns the US on meeting with Dalai Lama
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His Holiness: Compassion brings harmony among mankind By Shalkie: June 07, 2016
The Dalai Lama at the US Institute of Peace in Washington, DC,June 13, 2016. Photo: Reuters By Steve Shaw: June 14, 2016
The Chinese government has said that the United States should avoid breaking its promise to support the country’s “one China policy”, ahead of a possible meeting between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and President Barack Obama. The caution made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang comes as Taiwan’s new president also prepares to visit the US on her way to Panama. Under the “one China” policy, Beijing is insistent that foreign governments recognise both Taiwan and Tibet are part of China. “I can responsibly tell you that on this issue the US government has made solemn promises, which is to uphold a one China policy,” Lu said during a daily news briefing on 14 June. Lu added that the United States must recognise Tibet as an inseparable part of China and said His Holiness the Dalai Lama, “often puts up the facade of religion to peddle internationally his political position of splitting China. We demand no country or government give him any space for such activities and should certainly not do anything the 1.3 billion people of China would resolutely oppose.” Whether the US President is willing to meet with His Holiness the Dalai Lama is yet to be confirmed but the Tibetan spiritual leader told the Reuters news agency that a meeting is “not finalised” but a possibility. The dispute over the South China Sea has recently been fuelling tensions between China and the US and last month Chinese State media accused the US of being an “active provoker” of Tibetan independence. Meanwhile, a report published at the end of 2015 by the US government’s Congressional Executive Commission on China said: “Human rights and rule of law have suffered a devastating blow since President Xi Jinping came to power. By nearly every possible measure, China today is more repressive and more brutal.”
Dharamshala — The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness, the Dalai Lama at the request of Nalanda Shiksha commenced the three day teaching on Chapter 4 of Shantideva’s Bodhicharyavatara (Tib: chodug), today, June 7 at Tsuglagkhang Temple, Dharamshala. His Holiness bestowed his presence to a crowd of thousands comprising of Tibetan, Indian and foreigner devotees and admirers. As many as 6650 people from 78 countries, including 1200 Indians are attending the three-day teachings. Speaking on Indian religious diversity, His Holiness said “India is the land of spirituality and philosophy. Many religions co-exist in harmony and peace. It is also the birthplace of Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. India’s religious harmony and secular values have been inspiring for the rest of the world”. He further expounded that love and compassion are inherently the core values of all the religions, therefore practicing them would inevitably propagate harmony among the mankind. In accordance with the Sanskrit traditions he emphasized that Buddha, Dharma and Sangha the three jewels of Buddhism as called by His Holiness, can be understood by logic and reason. This could be delineated by the second turning of the Three Turnings of the Wheels of Dharma wherein a lot of emphasis was given on using reason as a method to realize the ultimate reality i.e emptiness and the subsequent compassion grounded in it. Understanding diversity is important to understand reality. And the ultimate reality of all the diversity remains to be the emptiness. Discussing Chapter 9 on Wisdom from Bodhicharyavatara, the text which according to His Holiness is the best text on the development of the Bodhichitta he highlighted that to combine Method and Wisdom we need to understand the appearance of things and then how they really are. What we consider good or
His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his first day teaching on Shantideva’s Bodhicharyavatara at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, on June 7, 2016. Photo: TPI/Shalkie
bad has its own cause and conditions. Therefore, one should not be content with the appearance as things don’t have absolute nature or existence, but should focus on the real picture. Self-cherishing attitude and our dependency on the appearance work together to cause pain and harboring of the negative qualities, therefore cherishing others over oneself is a form of liberation.
His Holiness also compared the understanding of Buddhism among Indians now from his experiences in the past. Being appreciative, he said “I can see Indians today are taking interest
New Tibetan books Tibetans shall be happy in Tibet, Chinese shall be in China
Tibetan monk arrested after solo protest calling “Freedom for Tibet”
Campaign group calls for divestment in Tibet water industry Deputy Speaker Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok launching the book titled Tibetans shall be happy in the Land of Tibet, Chinese shall be in China, a collection of historical documents compiled by Ven Bagdro at the LTWA hall, Gangchen Kyishong, 14 June 2016. Photo: CTA/DIIR
Computer Science Technology
Tibet Spring 5100 publicity photograph. Photo: TPI By Steve Shaw: June 14, 2016
The Tibetan rights group Free Tibet has launched a new campaign aiming to bring awareness to the exploitation of Tibet’s water resources and highlight the dangers of the rapidly expanding bottled water industry. As part of this campaign the group hopes to persuade foreign companies to divest shares and discontinue their support of Tibet water bottling companies because of the threat the business poses to the sustainability of water resources that millions of people across Asia depend on. One such investor is Blackrock, a large multinational corporation that is also one of the largest investors in the popular Tibet 5100 brand, which is owned by Tibet Water Resources Ltd (TWRL). Free Tibet is urging its supporters to write to Blackrock and demand the company withdraws their support of TWRL and ensure all stock is sold. Tibet 5100 has strong links to the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government and Blackrock is said to have received more than US$50m in government support for its investment. Another big investor in TWRL is US Secretary of State John Kerry and his wife Teresa Heinz. Their investments have been made through a trust called HFI Imperial. Free Tibet Director Eleanor Byrne-Rosengren wrote to the Kerry family on 17 May and called their investment “inappropriate and counterproductive” and urged them to “ensure that this investment comes to an end.”
Geshe Lobsang Monlam launching the book titled Computer Science Technology, a new Tibetan book writen by Mr Sanay Dorjee at the Lhasa’s new hall, Mcleodganj, India, June 12, 2016. Photo: Tibet Times
Interviwing the real subject Ven Lobsang Tsering staging a peaceful march, carrying a photograph of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, in Ngaba County street, Amdo, north-eastern Tibet, on June 7, 2016. Photo: TPI By Shalkie: June 07, 2016
Dharamshala — Reports coming out of Tibet say Chinese authorities in Ngaba County of north-eastern Tibet have detained a Tibetan man after he launched a solo protest in Ngaba county in protesting against the repressive Chinese occupation of Tibet. According to a video submitted to TPI by a source, Lobsang Tsering, a monk in his twenties, was taken into custody shortly after staging a peaceful march, carrying a photograph of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama and shouting slogans “May His Holiness the Dalai Lama live for 10,000 years!” and “Freedom for Tibet” at around 4 pm on Tuesday, June 7. His whereabouts are currently unknown. “Lobsang shouted slogans calling for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and freedom for Tibet. Chinese police immediately arrested him at the spot,” Kanyag Tsering and Lobsang Yeshe,
two Kirti monks in exile in Dharamsala, a close contacts in the region told the Tibet Post International. He is the son of father Sherab (household name is Ngoray) and mother Yuko, and presently belongs to the Kalachakra College, one of the four main colleges of Ngaba Kirti monastery. Hundreds of Tibetans, including writers, bloggers, singers and environmentalists, have been detained or are imprisoned since 2008, after attempting to express their views or share news of the situation in Tibet with the outside world, and provides further evidence of a widespread crackdown against free expression in Tibet. Sporadic demonstrations challenging Chinese repressive rule have continued in Tibet since widespread protests swept the region in 2008, with more than 140 Tibetans to date setting themselves ablaze to oppose Beijing’s repression and call for freedom in Tibet and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Geshe Lobsang Monlam launching the book titled Computer Science Technology, a new Tibetan book writen by Mr Sanay Dorjee at the Lhasa’s new hall, Mcleodganj, India, June 12, 2016. Photo: Tibet Times
Tibet Post International has released a new Tibetan book titled “Interviewing The Real Subject”, in Dharamshala, India, on May 27. The book contains 29 extensive interviews with Sikoyong, Parliament Speaker, Cabinet ministers, Tibetan NGO leaders, and former political prisoners, printed at Norbu Graphics in New Delhi, India. The interview designed to explore what the top Tibetan officials, NGO leaders and activists think and feel about the tough challenges they face, while striving to achieve or to improve their cultural, political, social, economic and democratic activities. Photo: TPI
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Jume 15, 2016
TPI NEWS
Petition against Chinese mining on a sacred mountain in Tibet rejected
Screenshot of the reply from the NDRC, and the construction site of the Akhori mining project. Photo: RFA/Mandarin Service
By Kalsang Sherab: May 30, 2016
Dharamshala — Following up the protest against mining in Akhori Township, Chuchen County, Ngaba, Amdo Tibet, Tibet Post International (TPI) recently received updates from local contacts. Our report on May 25 covered that the local government started construction relating to a mining project at the holy mountain in Akhori Township, and was fiercely protested against by the local Tibetans. On May 20, more police were sent and a clash between the police and local Tibetans followed. According to updated recourse, last Tuesday (May 24), the village representative submitted a petition to the Office of the Chinese National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). The NDRC replied the next day, stating that it is out of their scope of service. Besides this, the negotiation between the government and the local villagers were pushed to last Saturday, 28th of May. The local villagers further requested the government to stop mining and make compensations to the injured Tibetans who were beaten up by the police. Up till now, no agreement has come up. Regarding the NDRC’s response, a local contact told TPI, ‘Konchok Palden and other village representatives submitted an online petition to the Petition Office of the NDRC, titled ‘Mining at in Akhori Nature Reserve, Local People Encounter Police Violence’. This letter appeals to relevant officials of the central government for an urgent investigation and intervention to stop the local officials’ destruction of the natural environment at the vicinity of the holy mountain. However, the Petition Office made a response, stating that: according to the job function, your petition is out of the scope of NDRC’s service. According to the Regulations Concerning Letters of Petition, based on the principle of ‘the management of land is classified, and the responsibility is level-to-level; who takes charges, who takes responsibility’, your petition should be submitted to the local government, ministry of land and resources administration, or discipline inspection department.’ ‘However, it is the Development and Reform Commission (DRC) of Aba Prefecture that issued the approval document to the DRC of Chuchen Township regarding the ‘Big Cypress Water Power Station Project’ in Chuchen County. The document mentions that the condition for the construction project is mostly ready to start, and the requirements for operation have been met; the project duration should be limited to 24 months, and the process of operation, completion, or important incidents should be reported to the DRC of Aba Prefecture. Hence, local people believe that it is the DRC of Aba Prefecture that caused the destruction of the environment and the recent mass incident. Thus, local people think the NDRC should investigate and intervene, rather than shifting the responsibility onto the local government,’ the local contact added. The TPI received updates reporting that no agreement has been met at the latest negotiation on May 28. Tibetans gathered on the same day, requesting again that, firstly, the justice must be done to the injured Tibetans, and the police chief and others should be subjected to further investigation; secondly, relevant authorities should provide legal and reasonable explanations regarding the water
power station project; thirdly, the police must stop assaulting or threatening the local people, and compensations must be made to injured individuals. According to another local contact, ‘on the 20th, the government sent more than 30 vehicles to the site to intimidate the villagers. According to a staff from the township, one of the cars was carrying violent weapons. They prepared a large group of police to protect the construction, against the unarmed villagers. Thus, the staff suggested us not to go, or else, serious casualties may happen. So we sent the representatives for the negotiation, but no agreement was made. The negotiation was further pushed to the 28th. We gathered on that day and presented our appeal again. We request that the police chief and other law enforcement officials must be subjected to the justice of law due to their abuse of violence. Thus, the rage of the local people can be pacified; we also request legal and reasonable explanations regarding the water power station project at the Akhori Township. And don’t sabotage the national sentiments. We request that those responsible should stop threatening or assaulting villagers immediately, give compensations to the injured individuals, and be held responsible for breaking laws.’ The local contact revealed to TPI that Tibetans are unflinching in this protest, despite their disadvantage confronting the fully armed police. The contact said, ‘on the 28th, there was a marriage in the nomadic area. All the Tibetans from different villages gathered there. We all expressed our unflinching determinations in terms of the protest. But we don’t have the force to confront the CCP’s police and army. They have armed forces, and they have weaponry, so we poor, vulnerable, ordinary people cannot really tackle them. In the eyes of the government officials, Tibetans’ natural environment, traditional culture, and customs, none of the above is important. However, our ancestors were residing in this sacred land, thus protecting the natural environment is even more important than our own life. People nowadays – no matter if it’s the monastery or individuals – if we encounter difficulty, we will pray for the well-being at the holy mountain all over the year. This is the reason that we are protecting the holy mountain. We are unflinching.’ The local contact also strongly criticized the local officials as well as the Chinese government. The contact said, ‘the government officials threatened us, stating that, ‘anyone who harnesses the process must be sent to the prison and killed without exception. ‘ They have been behaving like this for long. This is also their job objective. They have never considered the fundamental interests of Tibetans. Instead, they have formidable political interests and individual interests. They lied to us in the disguise of construction and development. We have already outguessed their intention.’ The local contact referred to the Law on Regional Ethnic Autonomy and pointed out that, the law has promised people’s rights to the land in the ethnic minority area, but they were not implemented. The contact further criticized that, ‘these laws were not carried out, and it is just a performance, like a vase on the table – just for looking good. We have outguessed all of these; no matter how glib they [the government] say, we will never believe it. The education of the government officials are largely lagged behind; they are formidable, and have no difference with the bandits.’
TIBET NEWS
The Tibet Post International
Sikyong condemns crackdown on peaceful anti-mining protests in Tibet By Shalkie, June 08, 2016
Dharamshala — In response to the unfounded allegation by the Chinese authorities, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay with Tempa Gyaltsen of Tibet Policy Institute’s Environment and Development Desk conducted a press conference to deny Central Tibetan Administration’s involvement in the recent anti-mining protests in the Amchok township of Amdo province, north-eastern Tibet. In a circular passed by People’s Government of the Amchok County, it says ‘Recently in our county, some conspiratorial individuals have organized some innocent folks. In the name of protecting the Holy Gong-ngon Lari Mountain and the environment, they have nearly a hundred people illegally gathered to interrupt the regular production of the Nahedi Gold Mine. They also have colluded with the foreign anti-China forces, distorted the reality, and recklessly publicized the misrepresentations. This behavior has resulted in vicious impacts and serious consequences. The police have already targeted at and arrested some of the main figures. At the moment, some folks, being bewitched and coerced by some individuals, are still gathering around the monastery – this is seriously against the law. We hope you all to maintain the sober mind, distinguish right from wrong, and not participate the illegal gathering. Or else, all the
Dr Lobsang Sangay, accompanied by Mr Tempa Gyaltsen, Researcher at Tibet Policy Institute’s Environment and Development Desk, at the press conference at DIIR’s Lhakpa Tsering Memorial Hall, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala, India, on June 8, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo
consequences are on your own’. Condemning the circular, Sikyong said “The baseless accusation made by the local Chinese authorities about Central Tibetan Administration’ involvement in the anti-mining protests in Tibet is
Ex-Political Prisoner detained in Lhasa, Tibet on unknown charges By Yangchen Dolma: May 31, 2016
Dharamshala — Chinese authorities have detained a former Tibetan political prisoner on unknown charges in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Lodoe Gyatso, 55 from Sog County, Kham region of eastern Tibet, was taken away by police at night around 12am, May 14, a local source told TPI. The present condition and whereabouts of him remain unknown, source added: “The details of his arrest in Lhasa also remain unknown.” After serving over 21 years in prison that included longterm 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 15-year 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 the result of the torture he received in prison. The long-term physical abuse to which Gyatso was subjected included a month-long 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.
Lodoe Gyatso, former Tibetan political prisoner was detained again by Chinese police in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, on May 14, 2016. Photo: TPI
simply unacceptable. These protests are result of the occupation of Tibet, repression of the Tibetan people and environmental destruction.” He further pointed out the Human Rights Law which universally grants the right to the freedom of peaceful assembly, which the Chinese have repeatedly violated and continue to do so. “In the same circular, it was said that association or meeting of this kind will be punished and those arrested will be beaten and tortured. As per human rights law, everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly. The right applies to peaceful protests and demonstrations, public and private meetings etc. Association of people at any level is inherent human right of every individual. Therefore, to have an official local circular which categorically declares punishment for peaceful protestors is against the human rights norm and hence, it is unacceptable.” Sikyong also cited CTA’s environment policy in criticism of environmental exploitation in Minyak and Amchok. “As far as CTA is concerned, our environmental policy or principles are as follows: Any project related to environment has to environmentally sustainable, culturally sensitive in the context of Tibetan people’s religious and cultural sentiment, economically beneficial to the local Tibetans and fourth it has be legal and in consent with the local Tibetan people of the area where the project is taking place. However, the mining activities in Minyak and Amchok are in clear violation of Chinese environmental guidelines and the four environmental principles of the Central Tibetan Administration”. Adding to it, he said “First of all, the extractions are illegal, there have been an increase in the number of cases of environmental degradation caused by Chinese mining activities in Tibet, Chinese government in general, local authorities and private corporations engaged in mining in the Tibetan areas have not sought the consent of the local people nor respected their religious sentiments and the developments have not benefited the local Tibetans”. Tempa Gyaltsen, the researcher gave an elaborated report on the environmental abuses and the subsequent protests by the Tibetans living in Tibet. He said “Since 2009, there have been 30 recorded cases of anti-mining protests in Tibet and 2016 has seen the most number of protests than in the previous years. As of recently, Tibetans in Minyak Lhagang, Dartsedo County in Karze Prefecture held two-day protest against the Lichu river contamination caused by lithium extraction in the area. The mining were temporarily put at halt stating “environmental problems” and in order to “resolve remaining issues”. Last week, about 2000 Tibetans in amchok protested gold mining in the sacred mountain of Gong-ngon Lari, in Amchok town, Sangchu county, Kanlho Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.” He urged the Chinese government to treat the environmental and religious concerns seriously as it had resulted in self-immolations in past. “The Chinese government and the local authorities should take concern of the rising number of anti-mining protests by Tibetans and resort to better treatment of the situation, instead of discharging punishment. Two Tibetans from Amchok, Tsering Dhondup and Kunchok Tsering, have self immolated at the mine site to protest the unethical mining, similarly a Tibetan self-immolator named Tsultrim Gyatso, in his will, criticised Chinese mining activities at Tibetan holy sites”.
Exile News 3 TPI NEWS Chinese Demolish Tibetan Homes Sikyong’s cabinet approved by the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile The Tibet Post International
Jume 15, 2016
By Shalkie: June 02, 2016
Homes, Shops of Tibetans destroyed by Chinese around Tso Ngonpo Lake. Photo: TPI By Chakshu Sharma: June 14, 2016
Dharamshala - Chinese authorities have started demolishing houses, restaurants, shops and guest-houses around the picturesque Tso Ngonpo lake, Thanktak county, Amdo province in Eastern Tibet. Starting June 1 when hundreds of police officials along with heavy machinery arrived in the area, more than 600 homes and shops have been torn down. The beuatiful lake is a hotspot for tourits. Small shops, restaurants and guest houses form a source of healthy income for the local Tibetan community. Chinese authorities in alleged collusion with wealthy business owners have starting destroying homes, guest houses, shops and restaurants of the local Tibetan, Han Chinese and Muslim population. The grounds for this destructive campaign given by the Chinese authrorities is that they are demolishing ‘illegal structure’. “About 300 people have had to live in tents with their homes and businesses destroyed,” a Tibetan source told TPI. The businesses of two big and expensive hotels, the “5-15” and the “Foreigner Guest House” was seen to be taking
a hit against the cheaper shops and home-stays of the nomadic Tibetan comminuty. The wealthy businessmen after paying off the authorities are known to exploit the local poupulation. “The Chinese authorities were called in by the 5-1-5 and Foreigner Guest House to destroy the smaller, cheaper and more popular properties of the local poulation.” “The Tibetan nomadic community often faces exploitation and unjust trestement at the the hands of the Cgovernment officials, county leaders and wealthy businessmen,” the source added. Three Tibetans and two Muslim locals who petiotioned against the destruction of their properties to high-level government officals were put under arrest by the police, being released a day later. The advent of summer marks a festival in the area with activities such as horse racing, yak racing and other cultural traditions attracting a lot of tourists to area. With their businesses in ruins many Tibetans are facing a bleak future with their homes and livelihoods destroyed.
Ex-minister appointed as Senior Adviser to Sikyong By Yeshe Choesang: June 11, 2016
Dharamshala - Mr Pema Chhinjor, former minister in the 14th Kashag for the Department of Religion and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration, has been appointed as senior advisor to Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay for the term of the 15th Kashag. “Keeping in mind his vast experience and knowledge of the Tibetan administration and politics, Kasur Pema Chhinjor has been appointed to the post of senior adviser to guide Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay in his political and administrative strategies,” the Kashag said in a statement issued on June 10, 2016. Mr Chhinjor was born in 1945 in the Kham province of eastern Tibet. Following the footsteps of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, he came into exile along with his family to India in 1959, according the statement. From 1964 – 1984, he taught Tibetan language and history
in the Department of Asian Studies, Panjab University at Chandigarh, a city in northern India. While in Chandigarh, he founded the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress and served as its President for four consecutive terms. In 1974, he was elected as a member of the Central Executive Committee of the Tibetan Youth Congress. In 1992, he was elected as a member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (then known as Assembly of Tibetan People’s Deputies) for two consecutive terms. In 1996, he was nominated as Kalon in the 11th Kashag led by Kalon Tripa Mr Sonam Topgyal. He served as the Kalon of Department of Security from 1996 to 2001. In September 2011, he was nominated again as Kalon by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and served as the Kalon of the Department of Religion and Culture from September 2011 to May 2016.
I truly believe that no one is above the law: Sharling Dhardon By Shalkie: June 03, 2016
Dharamshala — Sharling Dhardon, the newly appointed Kalon of DIIR falls short of the age criterion by few months. Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay on Friday, June 3, on the third day of the session had to withdraw her name from the nomination for the mentioned post as she is 3 months short from being 35 which is the minimum requirement for the qualification of the candidates as specified in the exile government charter’s Article 21 (3). Sikyong apologized to the house on the mistake and assured that it arose purely out of an unintentional ignorance. He said “The process of selecting Kalon is done secretly during which I approached each of them on Monday morning, the concerned Kalon on inquiry told me that she was born in 1981 which if calculated amounts to 35 years of age. Of course she had not noticed that she was ineligible by a few months. Therefore, I apologize to the parliament and assure that it was not an attempt to deceive anyone. Kindly consider the withdrawal of the Kalon from the cabinet”. In her Facebook post, Dhardon said “I would like to express sincere gratitude to Honorable Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay for withdrawing my nomination as Kalon on the ground of minimum age requirement for a Kalon candidate. I respect the Tibetan Charter and truly believe that no one is above the law. I admire the professionalism and the unbiased manner in which the deliberation process was conducted today in the
Parliament. I remain firmly committed to serving His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan people and the Central Tibetan Administration in any capacity and doing my best in realizing our hopes of freedom in Tibet. I want to thank Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay once again for placing his faith in me”. Despite the inevitable withdrawal, her popularity can be felt by people’s widespread support on the social media with some also opining that she deserves the position because of her experience and expertise in the related field. She also received the maximum votes in the parliamentary elections, making her as the most favorable candidature.
Dharamshala — The 16th Tibetan Parliament-inexile on Wednesday, June 1, 2016, approved all the seven nominated members of Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay’s proposed cabinet. The Kalons of the newly formed 15th Kashag were selected through majority vote after they failed to gather a unanimous backing. The first day of the newly elected 16th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile commenced with expressing solidarity with the Tibetans and pledging for more concerted efforts for the resolution of the same. The Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel in his opening speech appreciated the diverse composition of the new house: he said “I extend my warm wishes to all of you today on the first day of the 16th Tibetan Parliament. The composition of this new parliament is a perfect blend of new and familiar faces. In fact, familiar faces constitute 22 while new faces constitute 23”. The total Chithues (MPs) were 45 but due to Dhardon Sharling’s abstention from voting since she was nominated and absence of an MP led the majority to be mandated at 22 out of 43 with 51%. Subsequently, in adherence to Article 23 (2) of the Charter for Tibetans in exile the selected members after successfully voted as Kalons, were allocated their departments as revealed in the portfolio released today, June 2 by Kashag Secretariat. According to the portfolio, Ven Yuthok Karma Gelek, former Secretary of the Kashag Secretariat is the Kalon of the Department of Religion and Culture with 37 votes; Mr Khorlatsang Sonam Topgyal, former Secretary is the Kalon of the Department of Home with 38 votes, Mr Karma Yeshi, Editorin-Chief of the Voice of Tibet radio is the Kalon of the Department of Finance with 27 votes; Labrang
The portfolios of the new Ministers (Kalons) of the 15th Cabinet (Kashag), the Central Tibetan Administration. Photo: File
Phagpa Tsering, former Administrative Secretary is the Kalon of the Department of Security with 31 votes; Ms Sharling Tenzin Dhardon, chair of International Tibet Network is the Kalon of the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) with 25 votes; Mr Choekyong Wangchuk, Executive Director of the Tibetan Parliamentary & Policy Research Centre is the Kalon of the Department of Health with 24 votes and Ngodup Tsering is reinstated as the Kalon of the Department of Education with 29 votes. However, Sikyong officially withdrew the name of Ms Tenzin Dhardon Sharling from the 15th Kashag as she falls short of the age limit required to be a Kalon as enshrined in Article 29(2) of the Charter
for Tibetans in exile. The minimum age requirement for one to be appointed as Kalon is 35. Sikyong thanked the parliament for the approval of his cabinet ministers. “The composition of the new cabinet has been carefully drafted with His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s vision and the official stance of the CTA, Middle-way Approach in mind. The new Kashag will strive to serve the Tibetan cause to its best ability and we hope the house will extend its cooperation as always,” he said. The elected ministers of the 15th Kashag administered the oath of office and secrecy by the chief Justice Commissioner Mr Kargyu Dhondup at a ceremony at the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission of the Central Tibetan Administration.
Tibetan instrument, and Nepali songs, and so on to the event. These performers include the Himalaya Band, and the famous Snow Lion Man. When being announced as the Miss Tibet 2016 by the 2015 winner Pema Choedon, Tenzing Sangnyi bursted into tears. At this occasion, Pema Choedon also gave a speech regarding her one-year experience being Miss Tibet 2015. She told the audience that the critiques in the past year have made her stronger than ever, and she is determined to make more changes to the Tibetan community in the future. Tenzing Sangnyi, the new Miss Tibet, told the press that, “I gave my best, and I left everything to God. I knew he would make the deserving one win. To be honest, I didn’t get all the supportive motivation that I needed, but still I have beaten myself. I believe in
myself, and I knew I could do it. I didn’t give up, I focused, and I worked hard. And finally, I have Miss Tibet crown on my head.” Sangnyi added, “through this platform, and through this title, I can use my voice to inspire the youth of Tibet, to do something, to make their lives meaningful. They will listen to me, and I can inspire them. And I can raise awareness on international platforms about the political and cultural struggle that we Tibetans are facing.” Sangnyi also told the press that, as a nurse, she would love to raise awareness on HIV in particular among the Tibetan community. The whole Grand Finale Night lasted till 10:30 p.m. The ceremony finished the director and some audience dancing on the stage and taking pictures with the contestants in traditional Tibetan dresses on the red carpet.
Miss Tibet pageant 2016 concluded, Tenzing Sangnyi crowned By Kalsang Sherab: June 06, 2016
Dharamshala — The Grand Finale Night of 14th Miss Tibet pageant was hosted at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) ground at 7 last evening (June 5). The 21-year-old girl from Manali, Tenzing Sangnyi, crowned Miss Tibet 2016. Hundreds of audience attended the event. Other than the competition sessions of Miss Tibet, popular dancers and performers also joined the stage at this occasion. At 7 p.m., Lobsang Wangyal, the producer, director, and the host of the event announced the opening of the Grand Finale Night of Miss Tibet 2016. Fireworks and electronic background music followed the announcement together with the crowd’s exciting cheers. Director Wangyal briefly introduced the history and challenges of Miss Tibet with humour, including the conservative critiques within the Tibetan community on one of the competition rounds, the Swimsuit Session, as well as the Chinese government’s constant interference to politicize the Miss Tibet pageant. Miss Tibet pageant has always been raising the awareness of the suffering of Tibetans in Tibet. In 2012, Miss Tibet was suspended due to the escalation of unrest within Tibet. This year, director Wangyal also brought a mat and chanting beads to the stage and called the audience to chant ‘Om Mani Pema Hum’ – the traditional mantra or prayer in Tibetan Buddhism – for over a hundred times with him. Meanwhile, the crowd were also singing the chanting collectively. There were four rounds at the Grand Finale Night as usual, the introduction, gown, the traditional costume, and the interview. The two judges are respectively a senior healing counselor and an experienced yoga teacher, both of whom are female. The four contestants, Dechen Wangmo from Mussoorie, Tenzin Dawa from New York, Tenzing Dickey from Bylakuppe, and Tenzing Sangnyi from Manali, began the first round of introduction dressed in casual clothes – white t-shirt and jeans. At the second round, they were dressed in western gown and performed catwalk on the stage in a sequence. And at the third round, the contestants were in different styles of chupa (traditional Tibetan costume) with exquisite decorations. At the interview round, the contestants answered questions from the judges. When asked about how to live on if she were to lose, Tenzing Sangnyi, who was laterly crowned Miss Tibet 2016, answered that there is no losers at this stage and she has no regret whatsoever coming to Miss Tibet. She added that, if she were to lose, she would still be happy to see a new wonderful person representing Tibetan women, and she would keep on empowering women in the Tibetan community as much as she could. Another contestant, Tenzin Dawa, a 17-year-old Tibetan from New York and the later 1st runnerup, were asked about the tension between tradition and modernity within Tibetan community. Dawa emphasized on the importance of raising the awareness among Tibetan youth of speaking the Tibetan language as well as preserving the Tibetan culture. At the intervals of competition rounds, Tibetan dancers and performers contributed hip-hop dances, traditional
Dechen Wangmo, Tenzing Dickey, Tenzing Sangnyi and Tenzin Dawa at TIPA, Dharamshala, India, on June 5, 2016. Photo: TPI/ Kalsang Sherab
Ex-minister appointed Rep of His Holiness at Tibet Bureau, New Delhi By Chakshu Sharma: June 02, 2016
Dharamshala — Former Kalon (Minister) for Department of Security, Dongchung Ngodup has been appointed the new Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Tibet Bureau, New Delhi. He will assume office from 15 July 2016, according to a circular from the Kashag secretariat. Speaking to media after the announcement of his appointment, Mr Ngodup said, “I feel that I may have to keep many things in my mind since I have less experience in the foreign affairs department. However, since I am given this responsibility, I will be fully committed in fulfilling all my duties.” He further added that as of now his main plan would be to continue the works and relationships developed by the outgoing representative Kasur Tempa Tsering. Mr Ngodup joined the civil service of Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on 15 June 1977 and he was appointed as senior clerk in the Department of Security on 1 September 1978. He was promoted to deputy secretary in 1987.
On 1 July 1991, he was promoted to additional secretary. From 1993 – 2006, he served as the Secretary of Department of Security. He served as Kalon for the Department of Security in the 13th Kashag from September 2006 – August 2011. He was re-elected as Kalon in the 14th Kashag and held the portfolio of Security department. However, he retired as the Kalon of Department of Security on 6 April 2016.
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Dharamshala — China is planning to demolish residences at one of the world’s largest Buddhist monasteries in eastern Tibet (Ch. Sichauan Province) because the authorities say the community is in need of “ideological guidance.” The government order was issued to Larung Gar monastery by the Serta county government and requires the monastery’s population to be slashed from over 10,000 monks, nuns, and laypeople to just 5,000 by September 2017. The institution will also be forced to accept joint management with the government, a regulation similar to what has been imposed on many other Tibetan monasteries. According to reports from within China these new restrictions are being implemented due to health and safety concerns over the size of the community and due to possible fire risks. In a statement issued by Human Right Watch, Sophie Richardson, China director said: “China’s authorities should not be determining the size of monasteries or any other religious institution, but should accept that religious freedom means letting people decide for themselves their religious practices. “If authorities somehow believe that the Larung Gar facilities are overcrowded, the answer is simple: allow Tibetans and other Buddhists to build more monasteries.” While China’s constitution does require the state to guarantee freedom of religious belief, it has regularly undermined this right. Since the occupation of Tibet China has closed a large number of Tibet’s monasteries, jailed thousands of monks and banned images of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In March 2010 the Tibetan Spiritual Leader said China is detaining monks and nuns and depriving them of the opportunity to study and practice in peace. He also accused China of attempting to “deliberately annihilate Buddhism”. The authorities have also taken action against Christian churches in southeast China and implemented restrictions on the Muslim community in Xinjiang province. Richardson added: “The order to demolish much of Larung Gar monastery is a step backward in the government’s policy on religion. By imposing such stringent demands on such a prominent monastery, the government is raising alarms for religious institutions across China.”
Government authorities previously attempted to reduce the size of the community through the demolition of homes in 2002. However, the incident caused embarrassment for China after it was caught on camera and resulted in international attention. The community has since grown without further interference. It wasn’t the first time the Chinese authorities brought up the issue, they have ordered the Buddhist Institute, to put a check on its enrollment last August and around 1,000 monks, who study at the monastery forcefully placed under house arrest. The officials have also specified the Institute started by late Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok as a hub for those who disseminate information to ‘exile separatist forces.’ The Monastery, founded by late Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok, a highly respected Tibetan Buddhist teacher, housed 10,000 students, chiefly comprising of monks, nuns, lay vow-holders, and tantric practitioners, including students not only from Serta and other regions of Tibet but also from China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other places. The institute played an important in revitalising the teaching of Tibetan Buddhism following China’s liberalisation of religious practice in 1980.
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After meeting His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his India tour in mid-90s, khenpo became a target for the Chinese authorities. Subsequently, in 1999 the authorities ordered him to reduce his then 8,800-student population to the permitted number of 1,400 which he refused. Khenpo died on January 6, 2004 in a hospital in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province at the age of 72. But The Institute remained the hallmark of Tibetan Buddhist Studies in the County.
Serta Larung Gar Monastery in Kham Province of eastern Tibet faces increased restrictions inposed by Chinese governmnet recent years. Photo: File
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Horoscopes for the Month of June, 2016 Sorces: Always Astrology ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Major job changes or opportunities to get ahead professionally are apparent. Think hard before going into business with friends or family. You may find that romance will unfold through business connections. Don’t reveal anything about your personal life to those who may use such information against you.Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.
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.
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.
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.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Don’t be too quick to let friends and relatives know what you’re up to. You need to do more things that you enjoy. Take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves. Now is a good time to ask for favors.Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Yo u m u s t r e f r a i n f r o m o v e r s p e n d i n g o n 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.
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.
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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The spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness gives teaching to thousands on tree of faith concludes three-day teachings for youth By Harish K. Raman: June 01, 2016
His Holiness the Dalai Lama concludes his three day teaching on Domthonpa’s Tree of Faith: a Self Exhortation at the Main Temple in Dharamshala, India, on June 3, 2016. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu By Jane Cook: June 03, 2016
Dharamshala, India — Whilst delivering teachings on Domthonpa’s Tree of Faith, the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama underlined the need to understand Buddhism in order to become a happier person. His Holiness the Dalai Lama concluded his threeday Buddhist teachings on Friday which was held from 01-03 June at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India. The teachings were attended by over 10,000 devotees, including more than 3000 young Tibetan students, mostly from Tibetan Children Village. Speaking on generating the awakening mind of bodhichitta, His Holiness quoted Maitreya’s ‘Ornament for Clear Realization’, which defines bodhichitta as the intention to become enlightened for the sake of all sentient beings. The Tibetan spiritual leader went on to say: “Whenever sentient beings think of themselves, they have a sense of ‘I’ in relation to their body and mind, their family and friends. Human beings have a sense of ‘I’ as the controller of their psychophysical aggregates. But Buddhist teaching rejects any such objective existence of the self. It rejects any perception of a solidly existent ‘I’.” “If you only think of yourself, you put yourself at a disadvantage. If, instead, you open your heart and extend your concern to others, you’ll be free of fear and anxiety. If you think of all sentient beings as being like you in not wanting suffering, selfcherishing will be reduced. Look at those around you,” he said. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate added: Those who are respectful and concerned about others tend to be happier, those who are more self-centred are less so. Think of those who share their sweets and whatever good things they have and those who keep them to themselves—which of them seems to be happier?
“As young Tibetans, extend the scope of your thoughts to others, to the 6 million Tibetans in Tibet, to the other people of Asia, to the whole world’s population and to all sentient beings. Bodhichitta is the mind intent on attaining Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings. It includes two aspirations, the thought to benefit others and the thought to realize Buddhahood.” His Holiness spoke of how 40 or 50 years ago he thought bodhichitta was admirable but that it was too difficult to develop. Then in 1967 he received an explanation of the ‘Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life’ from Khunnu Lama Rinpoche, who suggested that he also teach it as often as he could. Slowly his interest grew and, he said, he began to feel bodhichitta was more approachable. Shantarakshita said that those of sharper intelligence develop an understanding of emptiness first and cultivate Bodhichitta on the basis of that—His Holiness said he includes himself in that category. He stated that he has thought about emptiness since his twenties, but the important thing in the end is to combine the two ideas. During the ceremony for generating the awakening mind, His Holiness aslo told a story about the Avalokiteshvara statue in the Tsuglagkhang. He mentioned having a dream of circumambulating a particular self-arisen image of Avalokiteshvara. The statue called him close and he hugged it and heard it recite a verse about keeping up joyful effort. He reported that the statue in the dream was destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, but some parts were brought to him in exile. They were placed inside the present 1000 armed, 1000 eyed image that stands in the temple today. His Holiness said: “When it was constructed, this statue was made in such a way that we will eventually be able to dismantle it and take it back with us to Tibet. And you should all join me when that time comes.”
Protests in Tibet call upon Pres Xi to keep his words on environment By Shalkie: June 02, 2016
Dharamshala – The Chinese continued negligence of people’s religious sensibilities and exploitation of nature in the Tibetan plateau has caused an immense damage to the environment and deeply disappointed the people of Tibet. In the month of May, three reports of protest from different provinces of Tibet came wherein the locals protested against the brutality incurred by the Chinese authorities on environment by mining on their land. Their lack of consideration towards the appeals of people have aggravated serious protests in Tibet. According to a TPI source, on Thursday, June 2 the local people of Achok Yultso township of Sangchu county, Amdo region of north-eastern Tibet, in massive numbers conducted a demonstration from previous day’s site of protest to the local government office protesting against the gold mining by Chinese on the sacred mountain of Nyenchen Gong-ngon Lari. This demonstration was a follow-up protest to the previous day’s protest which saw many monks participating unlike the increased number of local participation in this one . In a video released protesters gathered with a huge red banner that read ‘Prevent Nyenchen Gong-ngon Lari from mining’ in Tibetan and Chinese and also shouted slogans. They can be heard shouting “Please protect the environment”; “Stop mining”; “Protect the holy mountain”; “We want people’s safety”; and “Victory of the Holy Mountain”. They also shouted slogans against Chinese hypocrisy calling out on how mining on a land without local people’s consent is against the Chinese law. One protester can be heard saying “President Xi Jinping
in his speech made three major points that if we want to save the humanity, we must protect environment and this statement has already been made into law, therefore we will protect the mine and the environment. Victory of the holy mountain!” Another footage received by TPI, shows over hundred people reaching to the local government office shouting “Stop the destruction of the environment”. A man can be seen standing in front of few officials and showing them a white banner with words written in Tibetan that seems about environment protection and asking “Is this against the Chinese Communist Party’s laws?” People’s sacred association with the mountain can be very well understood from a drawing procured by TPI showing a Chinese excavator destroying the sacred mountain which is in tears as a repercussion of which there are death, war, starvation, and poverty. The mountain represents ‘thousand years of treasured mine’ while the smoke coming out of the excavator represents ‘black ink of Earth’s skeleton’. On the heart of the mountain it’s written ‘Gold’ in yellow; ‘Silver’ in white; ‘Copper’ in red and ‘Iron’ in blue. The drawing also calls Chinese activities “Arrogant, Illegal, Destruction and Selfish.” The caption in addition to it reads ‘Natural environment is like humans formed from four elements, therefore if we take away the minerals which is like a heart of nature and decrease the nutrients, it will cause disasters such as earthquake, bringing an immense destruction to the Mother Earth. Therefore to protect minerals is the real protection of environment and to ensure our survival’. Translated by Yangchen Dolma and written in English by Shalkie, the Tibet Post International.
Dharamshala — The Spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama began his three day teaching on Domthonpa’s Tree of Faith: a Self Exhortation at the Main Temple in Dharamshala, India, for devotees and admirers predominantly for thousands of Tibetan Youth as well as for monks, nuns, foreign tourists, Indians and local Tibetans. Speaking to a packed conference centre, he expounded on the need for more efforts in realizing the common objectives and not be divisively attached to “us and them” equations. “We could all do well to adopt such a mature approach and regard ourselves as global citizens. Instead we tend to think in terms of ‘us’ and ‘them’, despite, as I mentioned above, the fact that as human beings we are all the same; members of one family,” the Tibetan leader said. He added, “We are social animals. We need friends and friendship depends on trust. Showing concern and affection for others is how we establish trust. Because we are interdependent, love and compassion are important in our lives. Recently I was encouraged to hear on the BBC that increasing numbers of young people regard themselves as global citizens. Similarly, the creation of the European Union is an instance of nations that once fought each other putting the past behind them and giving priority to their common interests.” “First of all, I’m just one of 7 billion human beings alive today. As human beings we are all fundamentally the same. We share a common experience that we are all born from a mother. We survive because of her care and affection. Scientists working with young infants are coming up with findings that suggest that basic human nature is compassionate,” the Nobel laureate said on the oneness of the humanity.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama began his three day teaching on Domthonpa’s Tree of Faith: a Self Exhortation at the Main Temple in Dharamshala, India, on June 1, 2016. Photo: TPI/Harish K. Raman
Talking about people who have negative or pessimistic mindset he explained as mentioned in Domthonpa’s Tree of Faith: a Self exhortation, “When taught Dharma they create negative karma in return. So many are there who return distortion for kindness. Even were I to shower them with profound Dharma instructions like rain, those with wild negative minds, undisciplined and hardened since beginnings time,would be difficult for me to tame, for they do not practice the truth.” While relating that study and not prayer and hope alone can do much good for the propagation of the Buddhist teachings, he expressed appreciation that monasteries that only performed rituals in the past
have instituted programmes of study in Tibetan exile community. “Nuns too have studied and the first group had shortly graduated and will be awarded Geshe-ma degrees. We all need to be 21st century Buddhists, which means we at least understand the nature of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, the teacher, his teaching, the path to cessation, and the community of those who put it into practice. Today, the crucial thing is to study.” With age becoming a factor for the soon to be 81 years old, the Dalai Lama told the devotees, “As you know I’m nearly 81 years old and I have some problems with my knees, so although a teacher ought to prostrate before the Buddha before teaching it is now quite difficult.”
public accounting of those killed, detained or missing,” spokesman Mark Toner said, add: “Washington continues “to have serious concerns with ongoing violations of human rights in China.” Toner cited the detention of human rights activists, lawyers, journalists and civil society leaders. The spokesman condemned “increased restrictions on media content, expression, association, and religious practice.” “We urge the Chinese government to respect the universal rights and freedoms of all its citizens,” he concluded. The newly elected president of Taiwan, Tsai Ingwen, has urged China not to fear democracy. At an event in the island’s legislature, Ms Tsai was joined by the democracy leader Wu’er Kaixi, who survived the Tiananmen crackdown and has not been allowed back into China since. Ms Tsai said in a Facebook post that the lives of people in China have improved with economic growth, but that China would earn more respect if it granted its people
more rights. “Only the ruling party has the capacity to resolve the past pain of the Chinese people,” she wrote. “Hopefully one day both sides will converge their views on democracy and human rights.” In 2014, China detained at least 940 people working on human and civil rights—a 72% increase from the year before, according to the advocacy group Chinese Human Rights Defenders. The figure demonstrates what critics say is a worsening government crackdown on the country’s civil society. In 2015, over 280 lawyers and human rights activists, were increasingly subjected to physical assault, including by Chinese court officials. The massive square which became famous all over the world with an iconic picture of a young man standing before a row of battle tanks in 1989 was today filled with people. The government defended the action claiming that the “great achievements” made by China in the past three decades testify the righteousness of the path chosen by the CPC.
By Shalkie: June 13, 2016
The four-day Tibetan women’s inaugural tournament commenced on June 9, Thursday and saw participation of Khad and Simur teams from Una and Nahan respectively, and Dand and Taran teams from Amritsar along with the Tibetan Women’s Team. “This is the first football tournament for Tibetan women. This time they played very well, and they come from different settlements from India and Nepal. Although this time there is only one Tibetan team, and many Indian. Next time, we will try to have more than one Tibetan team. This tournament is our attempt to give platform to Tibetan Women in sports, therefore they should get inspired from it and participate more” said Kalsang Dhondup, Secretary of Tibetan National Sports Association.
Worldwide vigils and protests mark 1989 Tiananmen massacre By Keary Huang: June 06, 2016
Dharamshala — Worldwide vigils and protests marked the 27th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Tens of thousands of people gathered at candlelight vigil in Victoria Park in Hong Kong, on June 5th night to remember the deadly massacre that ended the 1989 pro-democracy protests in Beijing. The anniversary was commemorated across the world, including Hong Kong, US, Taiwan and European countries with a call for Beijing to end human rights abuses. But in Beijing, the day passed as usual, without any public displays of commemoration at the weekend. Reports say over 125,000 gathered at Victoria Park in Hong Kong, and they surrounded the “Goddess of Democracy” statue, which looked over Tiananmen Square during the gathering of reformers in 1989. The suppression by the Chinese army of the democracy movement, in which thousands of people, mostly students died after the Communist leadership sent in tanks to break up the peaceful protests. However China claims a “counter-revolutionary rebellion” measure necessary to ensure “stability” in China. On that day, the international community witnessed a brutal military crackdown that led to a massacre of thousands of students protesting against the Communist Party of China (CPC). The regime has never apologised or even allowed any kind of meaningful assessment of what happened in 1989. It remains a taboo in China and President Xi Jinping has overseen a long-running crackdown on lawyers, journalists, writers and activists. Chinese police have detained several activists while others were placed under surveillance for the anniversary of the bloody 1989 crackdown in Tiananmen Square, which was heavily policed on Saturday. To mark the anniversary, Students for a Free Tibet India (SFT)organised an event in Dharamshala, India, on June 4, to show solidarity with the victims of the massacre and raise awareness about the ongoing crackdown on the democracy activism in China. “We are inspired by the courage of the people who took to the street to challenge CCP demanding for political reform,” the SFT India said. Chinese, Tibetans and supporters gathered at the Times Square in New York City, on June 5, to mark the anniversary. The event was organized by Chinese Democracy party and Goodness Democracy Fund and supported by Tibetan National Congress. “On June 4, 1989, millions of peaceful demonstrators from the Chinese Democracy Movement gathered in Tiananmen Square, where thousands were brutally cracked down,” the organizers said. “In every subsequent year, students, scholars, journalists, and politicians have joined with other human rights advocates to commemorate their sacrifice-except in China, where the official position of the Chinese Communist Party is that the events never happened,” they added. Meanwhile, the US State Department urged China to allow peaceful commemorations of the incident. “The United States government continues to call for a full
Tibetan women team comes second in four-day tournament
Dharamshala — Khad football team of Una defeated Tibetan National Women’s football team from 1-0 on June 12, Sunday in the concluding game of the first Tibetan National Sports Association’s football tournament for women, held in Dharamshala, India. The game extended to penalty shootouts, wherein one goal by Khad team and the respective misses by Tibetan team decided the result of the game. Ajay Singh Mankotia, president of Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association (IFTA) was the chiefguest. The event was also attended by Dawa Rinchen, the newly elected Tibetan Settlement Officer, Dharamshala and few members of the Tibetan parliament.
First women tournament held by TNSA, in Dharamshala, India. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo
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Jume 15, 2016
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Tibetans protest mining of sacred mountain in Tibet Political leader of Tibet to be presented with award for democracy
Symbolical drawing shows the sacred mountain of Nyenchen Gong-ngon Lari with a big excavator, which causes environmental destruction. Photo: TPI By Shalkie, June 01, 2016
Dharamshala — About three hundred Tibetans protested against the Chinese gold mining in Achok Yultso township of Sangchu county, Amdo region of north-eastern Tibet on May 31. The protestors gathered at Demothang with a banner demanding for the halt of mining on the sacred mountain of Nyenchen Gong-ngon Lari which has been in progress for sixteen years in Amchok township, Sangchu (Chinese: Xiahe) county, Kanlho (Chinese: Gannan) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu province (Amdo region of north-
eastern Tibet). Received by the TPI, a symbolical drawing shows the sacred mountain of Nyenchen Gong-ngon Lari with a big Chinese excavator, which causes heavy environmental destruction. The drawing with words written in red, white and yellow, also called on the Chinese authorities to stop mining operations, saying their activities are “Arrogant, Illegal, Destructive And Selfish.” Despite repeated appeals in the past, the mining has rather intensified. Furthermore, the use of machinery has deteriorated the environment in
the township. From an anonymous source, TPI learned that the armed Chinese paramilitary police soon reached the place and were ready to detain and oppress local Tibetan people. “We are protecting the environment as it is very sacred for us and this is the reason why we are doing this. This kind of protest is allowed under Chinese law. The mining has already taken lives of two people in the past and no compensation was provided. It has also disturbed the relationship among the local people of the township. We are so alike environment. We can understand what environment has given us.” responded one of the protestor on being demanded the explanation for the gathering. In November 2012, two Tibetans died at the entrance of the gold mine due to self-immolation. Tsering Dhondup, 35, set fire to himself on November 20, 2012, and Konchok Tsering, 18, set fire to himself six days later on November 26. According to the TPI source, “Tsering wanted to highlight the hardship and suffering of the local Tibetans harmed by mining activities.” Sources said that Tsering was a “gentle character” and devoted to Tibetan freedom as well as environmental issues. Video footage has also surfaced on YouTube, depicting local Tibetans confronting armed police forces, and showing banners in the background calling upon the authorities to discontinue the mining. A Tibetan speaking in the video can be heard making references to Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping’s speeches, which have voiced support for ecological and environmental protection. Our source who learned about the protest from his relatives added “Very less information is getting procured because of the increased and intensified police surveillance after the protest. This place has had many trucks taking minerals for sixteen years and it is still a newly discovered site. But this site has been the holy mountain for his people since forever”. In the last month, two similar major protests against mining by the Chinese on the holy grounds of Tibetans were reported in the Akhori Township of Chuchen County, Ngaba, Amdo and Yulshok Gargye in Minyak County, Kham Province of eastern Tibet. Such protests against mining and to protect environment have become increasingly frequent, and dangerous, as the Chinese authorities accelerate large-scale mining in copper, gold, silver, chromium and lithium. Tibetans who express even moderate concern about the impact of toxic waste, deforestation, and large-scale erosion risk being imprisoned, tortured, or even killed.
Tibet hacktivists target Chinese mining company About 300 Tibetans gathered at the construction site of the gold mining project in Amchok in Sangchu County, north-eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI
By Steve Shaw: June 13, 2016
Dharamshala — As protests against the mining of the Holy Gong-ngon Lari Mountain enter their third week an activist hacking group has joined the fight by targeting the servers of a mining corporation they claim is responsible. The group took control of the servers after declaring their intentions on social media. Shortly after, they had defaced the company’s website with it now displaying images of the Anonymous hacking group’s iconic Guy Fawkes mask along with text which includes the message ‘We do not forgive, we do not forget’. There is currently no official confirmation that the Chinese company is the one responsible for the mining. The attack on the company appears to be in retaliation for the brutal response from security forces that reportedly left some of the protestors beaten and severely injured and protest leaders hospitalised. Online activist group TibetTruth praised the Anonymous team on social media saying that while their work poses a great deal of danger, they continue to show a commitment to standing up against injustice and the defence of human rights. They went on to say they applaud Anonymous for its solidarity with the Tibetan struggle. The activists have been conducting a longrunning campaign against Chinese companies and government websites under the names #Op_Tibet and #BlackHatOp. They previously claimed responsibility for taking down a number of government sites during the March anniversary of the Tibetan uprising. Last week Chinese authorities accused the Central Tibetan Administration of being involved in
the protests and said they have, “colluded with foreign anti-China forces, distorted the reality, and recklessly publicised the misrepresentations”. They added that the actions of the protestors is against the law and people should distinguish right from wrong, “or else all the consequences are on your own.” Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay denied any involvement in the protests saying: “The baseless accusation made by the local Chinese authorities about Central Tibetan Administration’ involvement in the antimining protests in Tibet is simply unacceptable. These protests are result of the occupation of Tibet,
repression of the Tibetan people and environmental destruction.” Sangay added: “Our environment policy is simple that any project related to environment has to be environmentally sustainable, culturally sensitive in the context of Tibetan people’s religious and cultural sentiment and economically beneficial to the local Tibetans.” The anti-mining protests are in opposition to a large-scale gold mining operation that has been taking place around the site of Gong-Ngon La Ri, a mountain that is sacred to the local community.
Hackers attack Chinese mining company. Photo: Screenshot
The democratically elected political leader of Tibetans, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay. Photo: TPI/Harish K. Raman By Steve Shaw, June 13, 2016
Dharamshala — Democratically elected Tibetan political leader Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay is to be presented with a citation from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) in recognition of work by the Central Tibetan Administration (CAT). The citation will be presented by Martin Frost, Chairman of the Board of Directors at NED on 15 June during Sikyong’s nine-day visit to Washington DC. It will be framed and include a statement from the US on one side and a statement from the CAT on the other. After being presented with the award the Sikyong will make a speech about the strength of Tibetan democracy. Dr Sangay has become a symbol of Tibetan democracy since being elected as the first democratically elected political leader of the Tibetan people in 2011. The position of Sikyong was established after His Holiness the Dalai Lama devolved his political authority. In April Dr Sangay was re-elected for a second consecutive term and vowed to continue fighting for the freedom of Tibet. “The Tibetan democracy in exile in an example for the world. We thank India for allowing the Tibetan democracy in exile to thrive. The Dalai Lama
has given the gift of democracy to Tibetans in exile and it would help in fulfilling our aspirations,” he said. During his time in office he has achieved a number of milestones, including making significant investments in Tibetan education, improving relations with India and travelling to over 20 countries to build awareness of Tibet. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who is currently on a 19-day visit to the United States, will also visit NED to discuss the principles of democracy and human rights with four young activists from Cuba, Sudan, Azerbaijan and Jordan. The NED will round off the event by presenting the Democracy Service Medal in honour of the late Tibetan Buddhist Monk Tenzin Delek Rinpoche. Following his incarceration in 2002, the wellknown political prisoner died in a Sichuan prison in 2015. The suspicious circumstances of his death caused outrage amongst Tibetans and caused the international community to raise questions over the treatment of Tibetan prisoners. During his visit to the US, Dr Sangay will also meet with dignitaries and senior officials of US governmental and nongovernmental organisations.