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Page1 H.H Prays for Natural Disaster Victims Page 2 14th General Body Meeting of TYC Page 4 New Rules in Tibet Page 5 Protest in Lithang Page 9 10 Questions for Dr. Lobsang Sangay

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Questions for Dr. Lobsang Sangay page 9......

Vol. 01, Issue 23, 15 August 2010

51st Anniversary of TIPA

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have the strength to become the next Prime Minister page 8....... www.thetibetpost.com

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama Prays for Natural Disaster Victims

By YC.Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post

17th Karmapa opening a new about TIPA on 11 August 2010, Dharamshala, India. Photo: TPI

Dharamshala: The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) on Wednesday marked 51 years of excellence in preserving and promoting traditional Tibetan theatre and opera in exile. Tipa's anniversary coincides with the annual Tibetan summer festival of Yarkyi. ....... P 6

Condolences Offered by CTA

Prof Samdhong Rinpoche, PM of Tibetan government in-exile and Mr Penpa Tsering, the speaker of Tibetan Parliament in-exile, Dharamshala, India.

Photo: TPI/File

Dharamshala: The Tibetan Parliament-in-exile and the Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration have expressed their deep condolences for the victims of the floods and subsequent mudslides that hit Drugchu region, northeastern Amdo province of Tibet, on Sunday.

The death toll has risen to 337 according to Chinese state media and 1,148 people are still missing as rescuers race against time in search of survivors. ....... P 8

127 Dead in Eastern Tibet

127 people are reported dead and 2,000 more are missing after devastating overnight floods and landslides hit eastern Tibet's Drugchu county.

Photo: Tibet CN

Dhasa: 127 people are reported dead and 2,000 more are missing after devastating overnight floods and landslides hit Drugchu (Chinese name: Zhouqu), the most easterly county town of the so-called Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in Gansu Province, according to Chinese state media.

Thousands of military personnel and workers are trying to rescue those trapped under vast amounts of mud and rock, after half of Drugchu town, home to approximately 45,000 Tibetans, was submerged under water.

Xinhua, the Chinese state-controlled news agency, reports that 700 survivors have been rescued by ....... P 5

Dharamshala: His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama this morning led a mass prayer service for victims of the recent floods in Drugchu County, eastern Tibet. The ceremony, held at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, began at 0730 and lasted over three hours. It was attended by the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Rinpoche along with hundreds of Tibetan exiles, Buddhist monks and nuns, and non-Tibetans.

His Holiness said global warming could be to blame for the devastating floods and mudslides across Asia, and made the following statement: "I have been deeply saddened by the loss of many lives and the destruction of property caused by the floods in Pakistan and India. I have offered my condolences and prayers as well as token donations towards relief and rescue work.

"Pakistan officials say 14 to 20 million people face direct or indirect harm as a result of unprecedented flooding that has triggered the country's worst humanitarian disaster. The United Nations believes 1,600 people have died, while Islamabad has confirmed over 1,300 deaths.

"I am also very sad that there has been a massive landslide in Drugchu [Chinese name Zhouqu], south-east of Kanlho [Chinese name Gannan], in Gansu province of the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in which many people have lost their lives.

It is reported that this is one of the deadliest incidents in decades. I understand that Premier Wen Jiabao visited Zhouqu to oversee relief and rescue work.

"Meanwhile, Tibet's massive mudslide has killed over 1,150 people and hundreds are still missing.

China claims that Drugchu has a population of

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Karmapa Rinpoche among the Tibetan officials, monks, nuns, and lay praying for vitims of natural disaster in Tibet, Pakistan and Russia, Dharamshala, India on 14th August 2010. Photo: TPI/Sangay

134,000 and at least 45,000 people have evacuated their homes.

"I pray for all those who have lost their lives and offer my sympathy and heart-felt condolences to the bereaved and all those who have been affected by this natural calamity.

"According to experts, these very unusual floods and the devastating fires in Russia [which have burned 2,000 homes and killed 52 people] are

symptoms of a deeper malaise occurring due to unprecedented global warming and other environmental causes."

Flashfloods Ravage Leh

Italian Town Honours His Holiness was grateful and encouraged that a small town in central Italy recognised His Holiness' work, and expressed concern for the plight of the Tibetan people.

Over 20,000 people from all over the region attended the first day of the annual festival.

Four monks from the Gaden J a n g t s e Monastery in A small town in central Italy has presented its annual international prize - the Traglia - to His south India Holiness the Dalai Lama Photo: AP constructed a

By Tibetan official media: Tibet Net sand mandala Jelsi: A small town in central Italy has presented and prayed for world peace. After the mandala its annual international prize - the Traglia - to His was dismantled, a long line of people queued to Holiness the Dalai Lama, in recognition of his receive a small portion of the sand. doctrine of kindness, love and compassion. The "His Holiness the Dalai Lama's message of peace award was received by Mr Tseten Samdup and non-violence is very important for the Chhoekyapa, His Holiness' Geneva growth of civilization," said Mr Michele Iorio, representative, on July 27 in Jelsi, Italy. The president of the Molise regional government, ceremony was organized as part of the town's during a meeting with Mr Tseten Samdup celebrations of Festa del Grano and was Chhoekyapa on July 28. Mr Iorio added that he supported by the regional government. supports His Holiness' call for autonomy for the In receiving the award, Mr Chhoekyapa said he Tibetan people.

Ladakh at winter, beauty of Buddhist manastery displays in this photo. Photo: TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: Over 113 people, including three Tibetans, are dead and 500 more are missing after a mudslide devastated Leh, in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, yesterday (August 6). A full rescue operation is under ....... P 8

Economy and Human Rights

A symbol of economy buying the values of the Human Rights and Tibet. Photo: Desidgned/file

Dharamshala: It's a fact that, today, the developed nations are far more advanced technologically and economically than in previous centuries, and their citizens lead a "better life". But it does not mean that Human Rights are better protected in this new century. An honest examination shows that the ....... P 4

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15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

TPI TIBET IN EXILE

Shadow Hangs Over 14th General Body Meeting of TYC

The Tibet Post

Miss Tibet Launches Signature Campaign

By The Tibet Post

The 14th General Body Meeting of Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) began yesterday, 02, August, 2010 in Dharamshala. Photo: Sangay TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: The 14th General Body Meeting of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) began yesterday in Dharamshala, with a crucial and forthright discussion of the future of its vice president, Dhodhup Dorjee, who was expelled earlier this year for misconduct. After five hours of discussion, the majority of the attending members voted in favour of a demand for Dorjee's resignation.

Various reports published by the Tibetan media-in-exile predicted that the meeting, beginning yesterday, August 2, and set to last for a week, would be overshadowed by the controversy. His role in preventing a planned hunger strike - a popular method of peaceful protest employed by the Youth Congress, which was to take place in New York last February - resulted in his contentious discharge.

Dorjee came under fire after writing to the US embassy requesting they refuse to issue visas to those intending to travel to America for the strike, claiming that representatives had not yet been selected and therefore any visa request would be fraudulent. In addition to the subsequent invalidation of the visas of those members planning to attend, Dorjee continued to write to TYC members in New York and Jersey on the matter.

On 11th February the Vice President's expulsion was announced, with the support of seven out of nine executive members. There was no doubt that the week's event would bear witness to heated debates over the incident, particularly in light of Dorjee's refusal to accept the decision. "The matter will be discussed, and whatever needs to be cleared will be done in the meeting", the President of the Youth Congress, Tsewang Rinzin, announced prior to the assembly.

Despite this elephant in the room, there was much to celebrate as things got off to a start yesterday morning.

117 members from 47 regional chapters of the TYC, including members of parliament and representatives of non-governmental Tibetan organizations, gathered for the opening of the meeting. It began

with all attendees standing to sing the Tibetan National Anthem and the official song of the Tibetan Youth Congress. A minute's silence was later observed, in mourning for those Tibetan people who have lost their lives during the Chinese occupation.

Tsewang Rinzin introduced the conference, which began with the presentation of four awards.Firstly, the Most Active Regional Chapter Award went to Bylakuppe, southern India, followed by the Tibetan Freedom Award which was dedicated to all those who took part in the 2008 demonstrations for a free Tibet and the courage they displayed. The Heroism award went to those who lost their lives to the Chinese military during the aforementioned demonstrations and finally, to all those who gave their time and donations in order to aid those affected by the Kyigudho Earthquake in April, the Social Service Award was bestowed.

The special guest at yesterday's meeting was the Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, Mrs. Dolma Gyalri, who launched a new book published by Lobsang Jimpa, former secretary to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The book, which has been published by the TYC, is a response to the use of the Tibetan name 窶郎edor', under which the Chinese government circulate critical articles about Tibet and other pro-Chinese Communist Party propaganda.

Gyalri later addressed the audience, stressing the need to struggle for either Independence (which the TYC advocates) or the 'middle way approach'. She reiterated that for the Tibetan people, Tibet is not just the so-called Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) stated by the Chinese Government, which excludes half of Kham and all of Amdo, but rather the whole of the three traditional provinces that history has witnessed as part of Tibet.

Despite the importance of these events, the rest of the day was set aside to focus on the Dorjee debate alone.

As the old Tibetan saying goes, "if there is no unity in the home, there can be no success outside of it".

Dharamshala: Tenzin Norzom, Kingfisher Miss Tibet 2010, joined a signature campaign with activists in Dharamshala on Friday, protesting China's oppression in Tibet.

As a part of the drive, signatures of the people who support the Tibetan Movement are being collected on a big scroll. The banner will be later presented to the UN Secretary General, reported by Asia News Inernational.

"Firstly, as Miss Tibet, I have the responsibility towards the Tibet cause.

When I saw a non-Tibetan people contributing his blood for Tibetan freedom, it really inspired me. I came to know him after I got my title. So, it really inspired me. I just feel like working with him for the Tibetan cause," said Norzom.

Mahesh Yadav, an Indian activist who joined the signature campaign, has been making portraits of various world leaders with his own blood for the past fourteen years.

Yadav painted a portrait of the US President Barack Obama, appealing for Tibet's freedom.

"My blood is devoted to the freedom of Tibet, the support is important for the independence of Tibet. I am going to appeal the whole world with this message. I have painted Barack Obama's portrait using my own blood.

And this is a message to save humanity. We have appealed the US President to save Tibet, because Dalai Lama is fighting for non-violence," said Yadav.

Meanwhile, a group of Tibetan volunteers launched a website to campaign for a candidate, Lobsang Sangay, for the ensuing polls to elect the Tibetan Kalon Tripa (Prime Minister) -in-exile.

Tenzin Norzom, Kingfisher Miss Tibet 2010, joined a signature campaign with activists in Dharamshala on Friday Photo:TPI

"We have just launched a website called kaluntripa.org and this is to campaign

Tibet Government in exile," said Lobsang Wangyal.

A group of Tibetan volunteers launched a website to campaign for a candidate of Mr Lobsang Sangay, Photo:TPI

for Dr. Lobsang Sangay. He is a Harvard law graduate and currently working in Harvard Law University. So, many young Tibetans in exile would like to see him as next Prime Minister of the

An estimated 80,000 Tibetans arrived in India along with His Holiness the Dalai Lama after an abortive uprising against the Chinese rule in 1959 and over the years their numbers have swelled.

UN Concern As Nepal Handover Refugees

Tibetan refugees are surrounding by arm forces of Nepal during 51st Anniversary of Tibetan National Uparising at Boudha, Kathmandu, nepal. Photo: TPI/Lhuboom

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: The UN High Commissioner for Refugees has expressed concern over the action taken by Nepal to repatriate three Tibetan refugees in June earlier this year, the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) has revealed. The move

has violated the "Gentleman's Agreement" between Nepal and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), which secured safe transit for refugees from Tibet as they travelled through to India. Established in 1989, when Nepal

ceased to provide Tibetans with refugee status, this is the first violation of the pact since May 2003.

In early June Nepalese police detained two Tibetan monks, 20-year old Dawa and 21-year old Dorjee, and a 22-year old woman called Penpa, in Nepal's Helma district before they were taken back via helicopter to the Tibetan border at Hilsa. Here they were collected by Chinese security personnel, and whilst one of the monks was permitted to return to his monastery, the other two refugees have been imprisoned.

"The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is extremely concerned over the forcible repatriation of three Tibetan refugees," a UN official said yesterday, in response to the Nepalese contravention of international law. It was also announced that the UNHRC had written to the Nepalese Government regarding the violation.

The incident appears to be in response to increasing pressure from China, one of Nepal's major patrons, to rein in proTibet activity within their territory.

TPI DALAI LAMA

The Tibet Post

His Holiness Praises India's Contribution to Peace and Humanity

Tibetan spiritual leader H.H the Dalai Lama (C) arrives with Delhi University Vice Chancellor Deepak Pental (R) to deliver a lecture in New Delhi on August 10, 2010. He delivered a lecture on 'Ethics for the New Millennium' at the university's convention hall, in memory of the scientist and academic D.R. Kothari. Photo: AP

By YC.Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post I

Delhi: India has contributed more than any other nation towards the well-being of humanity, Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama told hundreds of students at Delhi University, during three sessions from August 9 to 10.

His Holiness, who was delivering the Professor DS Kothari Memorial Lecture on Ethics for the New Millennium, struck an instant chord

with the students with his quick wit, who broke into laughter as he recounted a series of amusing anecdotes.

According to His Holiness, India's non-alignment policy during the 1950s and 60s, which emphasised neutrality, was a manifestation of its historical emphasis on non-violence.

India's contribution to peace and wellbeing was much greater than

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neighbouring states' he said and, "except for Emergency when there was some fear," India had functioned well as a democracy, urging the Indian community to adopt a greater role in building ahimsa (the avoidance of violence) and addressing conflict.

"We need a new method of human values which can come through practice," he added.

Asked to speak on Indo-Pakistani relations, His Holiness stated, "Partition of the two countries was a great tragedy. Mahatma Gandhi had not wanted it. Present-day Pakistan would have been so much more peaceful if there had not been any partition."

The two countries would have to learn to live together and discussions could help in bringing this about, he continued, saying, "I believe this day will come."

Emphasising the need for nonviolence, His Holiness stated that it should be practised even with the lowest forms of life and that a nonviolent cultural heritage is useful in this regard. Pointing out that one cannot expect governments and the United Nations to do things overnight, he added: "Individuals must make the change."

On the question of China's role in Tibet, the Dalai Lama declined to comment, saying he did not want to politicise the meeting.

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Visit Canada

Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre (TCCC). Photo: TCCC

Toronto: The Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre in south Etobicoke, Toronto, is undergoing a $6.6 million revamp - aiming for the October 23rd deadline when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit for the grand opening.

According to Lhakpa Tsering, the centre's administrative manager, there is much to complete, including renovation of the front entrance,

gymnasium, assembly hall and ‘multipurpose' room. Several unforeseen problems meant that work did not commence until early July and has encountered some interruptions.

The centre has around 5,000 to 6,000 members and it is hoped it will accommodate not only the Tibetan community but also wider public gatherings and educational programmes.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Returns Home

His Holiness's Schedule Updated

His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the main Tibetan temple, Dharamsala. Photo: TPI

By Yangsham, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: His Holiness the Dalai Lama's schedule for his forthcoming teaching tour has been updated, as reported on the Tibetan leader's official website.

Tibetan spiritual leader left this morning to begin his tour which will take place in Jispa, Lahual and the Spiti district of Himachel Pradesh.

The Tibetan leader will confer the Keruka ( Tibetan-dechok) Initiation in Jispa on 19 August and give teachings

on the following day.

On 22 August His Holiness will give a teaching on Gyalsey Thokme Sangpo's 37 Practices of A Boddhisattva (laklen sodunma) in Manali, 133 km away from Jispa.

His Holiness' private office apologized for the inconvenience that these changes caused, saying bad road conditions had been causing difficulties in regard to the travel logistics.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama returns to Dharamshala, India. Photo: TPI/File Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

hasa: After an eight-day visit to Buddhist monasteries and schools in Nubra Valley, Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has returned to his home in Dharamshala. Boarding his plane at Thoise Airbase yesterday morning (July 28), His Holiness spoke highly of his trip, saying, "I am very happy that my programme here went on successfully and

hope to visit again in future".

During the final day of his visit, His Holiness gave a lecture on Tsongkhapa's Lamtso Namsu to a 15,000-strong crowd at Disket Monastery, before giving a separate audience to 500 foreigners to whom he expounded the promotion of positive human values and inter-faith harmony. Later in the day, His Holiness inaugurated an eco-friendly

building at Lamdon Model Primary School, where the room temperature during winter and summer is adapted using solar energy.

Finally, His Holiness attended a public talk by five Buddhist scholars, organised by the Nalanda and Atisha Buddhist associations. The former seeks to introduce Buddhism to young people, while the latter aims to teach essential Buddhist texts in local dialect.

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15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

TPI INTERNATIONAL

The Tibet Post

Prioritise Issue of Tibet: New Rules Further Restrict Internet Access in Tibet US Congressman

By Mega Davis, The Tibet Post

US Congressman Mr Frank Wolf Photo: AP

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: US Congressman Frank Wolf, urged the Obama administration to ‘find its voice' on human rights issues and prioritise the issue of Tibet during a speech at the House of Representatives on Friday (23rd July). As co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, Wolf posited a detailed assessment of the US government's role in the protection and promotion of human rights in countries such as Sudan, China and Iraq, placing particular emphasis on the struggles of Tibetan Buddhists, among other religious groups.

His speech highlighted the

responsibility of Congress to defend these oppressed groups. "America must stand up for the ideals upon which our own experiment in selfgovernance was founded. America must strike out against injustice, whatever form it takes. America must believe that even the mightiest walls of oppression can tumble and work toward that end," he stated.

Wolf used the opportunity to flag up insufficient staffing at the Special Coordinator for Tibetans office , as well as delays in the submission of the "congressionally mandated Report on Tibet Negotiations", which is due to Congress annually on March 31st.

Dharamshala: Internet censorship requirements in Tibet have been heightened in accordance with orders from Chinese authorities for all internet cafes to install state-of-the-art surveillance systems, according to industry sources and local media. The nationwide policy requires that all computers installed for use by the public in the so-called Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) must install the system by the end of the month.

The department has dispatched engineers throughout Tibet to install the new system in individual Internet cafes, and to train business owners and technical staff in its operation.

The Chinese Government claims that one of the benefits of the new requirements is the prevention of minors accessing inappropriate material online, however, many believe that this is just a means prevent access to media and social networking content from outside China. The new system will allow for direct intervention from above if regulations change, taking access out of the hands of internet outlet proprietors.

The move comes after the implementation of the ‘real name registration system' web policy that is already functioning across Tibet, which requires all anonymous comments to be removed, and prohibiting forum moderators as well as forum users from using alias names.

"In brief I am not surprised because the whole world knows there is no freedom of the media or freedom of

China;s censorship and Internet restriction. Photo: TPI/File

expression in China and Tibet" says Y.C. Dhardhowa, Editor-in-Chief and Founder of the Tibet Post International, an online Tibetan newspaper based in Dharamshala, India. "China is not only developing their technology and internet software but they are always trying to prove their ability to censor what is going on in China, particularly with regard to Tibet."

Referring to the arrest and expulsion of many journalists in China during the 2008 Olympics, and the prohibition of

many websites, radio stations and news media, Dhardhowa expressed optimism about the capabilities of those outside China to ensure that the full story can be accessed.

"Visas were refused to those trying to research the true picture of events; they also banned news media, websites, and radio stations. But the Chinese authorities cannot bury these things as outside China and Tibet there are similar software developments in response.

China cannot hide the reality."

China Paid for Chris Carter's Tibet Trip

Economy Buys the Value of Human Rights and Tibet

By YC. Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post

Chinese economy determines or buys the value of ‘Western’ Human Rights and democracy, particularly when it comes to the most vulnerable aspects of our world.

Take the genocide of the culture and language of the Tibetan people. It’s difficult for a person without freedom to preserve ancient values and live in genuine social harmony. Tibetans today face not only the onslaught of Chinese culture and language, but they are caught in a complex game between China and its Western counterparts. A dirty war is being played out between the shadow economy and Human Rights, the latter being able to author Human Rights abuses.

Why are the economy and Human Rights treated differently, by the West, in the ‘special case’ of Tibet? The United Nations made an attempt to put Human Rights into a broader context, through decades of first-hand experience with Tibetan refugees worldwide. The Europeans and Africans Unions treat the Tibetan similarly, even as they play their economy games with China.

Rather than simply killing the whole populations of prisoners from all parts of Tibet, the armed Chinese paramilitary forces are carrying out programs of torture. Torture can be either physical or psychological, and it aims at the "humiliation or annihilation of the

dignity of a person." Physical torture might include mutilation, beatings, and electric shocks to lips, gums, and genitals. In psychological torture, detainees are occasionally deprived of food and water for long periods, kept standing upright for hours, deprived of sleep, or tormented by high-level noise.

China is forcing Tibetan political prisoners to admit to being ‘extremists’, ‘separatists’ or ‘spies of Western imperialism’, all of which amounts to treason. Torture is used also as a means to carry out interrogations and extract confessions or information. Today in Tibet, torture is increasingly used as a means of suppressing political and ideological dissent, or for punishing political opponents who do not share their ideology, sympathise with Tibetan independence or have communication with exiled Tibetans.

Tibetans made an urgent appeal to the world for more freedom of conscience and against cultural and language extinction in Tibet. The world needs a comprehensive definition of "Universal Human Rights", which should include the right to religion and culture for all citizens on earth, the right to be free from ‘values’ created by speculators, the right to protection of population and control of their land, and the right to protect their traditional way of life.

Why does the world treat Human Rights

differently from the economy in industrialised China? Of late it's been my experience that, everyone seems to be concerned about suffering in Tibet or Sudan. But when the Western world sees a great chance and exchange between its economy and the Tibetan people, and witnesses Chinese human rights violations with disgust – they then fail to act. China has killed over 1.3 million Tibetans and over 150,000 have been forced to leave their country, including their spiritual leader. Why do western nations treat the last and largest communist regime, China, as though it were unworthy of their dignity and the values of mankind?

The Western countries achieve a healthy economy and China practices the worst Human Rights violations in the history of mankind. We say media is a strong tool for democracy, and this took form when China suppressed the uprising in Tibet in 2008, taking more than 224 lives. But the western government failed to react to these Human Rights violations. I wonder if they have a heart that shows the same compassion and solidarity towards Tibetans.

The article is a personal opinion and it does not reflect the view of The Tibet Post International. If you have any comment, you will be able to reach the author at thetibetpost@gmail.com

Labour MP Chris Carter has been suspended and expelled from Labour's caucus.

Photo: File

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: The position of Chris Carter, a member of the ruling New Zealand Labour Party, has come under scrutiny after he kept a trip to China and Tibet a secret from party leaders. Carter claims the trip was financed entirely by the Chinese government, as opposed to taxpayer dollars, and therefore he did not see it as necessary to seek authorization for the vacation.

Mr Carter's controversial absence is another in a succession of rulebreaking issues that have put his parliamentary future in jeopardy. Phil Goff, the party leader, has expressed concern over his colleague's capabilities, suggesting that Carter's irrational behaviour may be due to

mental health issues.

Revelation of the clandestine visit to China, as well as attempts to undermine Goff, prompted his ejection via a unanimous vote from a caucus (party meeting) on Thursday (July 29), almost guaranteeing his permanent expulsion from the party council on August 7.

According to the New Zealand parliamentary candidate, the trip was offered to him by China four months ago, to coincide with a conference on poverty alleviation. Carter said that during the trip he spent six days in China and one day in Tibet. He argued that the uproar about the trip was an attempt to conceal concern over Goff's leadership.

TPI TIBET

The Tibet Post

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

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Protest Footage Released on 3rd Anni- Two Monks Stage Protest in Lithang versary of Tibetan’s Arrest

Chinese armed military personnels in Lithang County eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: On the third anniversary of his arrest, footage of Runggye Adak, a Tibetan nomad imprisoned for publicly calling for the return of the Dalai Lama and denouncing Chinese policy in Tibet, has been released by the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) as their steadfast global campaign for his release intensifies.

The footage reveals an excerpt of the speech Adak delivered at the annual Lithang Horse Racing Festival in Kardze county, eastern Tibet, on 1 August 2007, immediately after which he was arrested by Chinese police. He is now serving an eight-year sentence

for his actions.

The transcript, which has been translated by the International Tibet Support Network (ITSN), provides an insight into political protest inside Tibet seldom seen by the rest of the world: "These things have happened to us," says Adak. "Did you hear what has happened to us? Although we can move our bodies, we cannot express what is in our hearts. You know? These days there are those who say we don't need the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama is the one that we six million Tibetans truly [need]."

As a result of his call for the Dalai

Lama's return, which was interpreted as a call for independence, Adak was charged by Chinese authorities with ‘provocation to subvert state power' and his speech was labeled a ‘major political incident', and resulted in a lengthy prison sentence.

Adak's son, 25-year-old Jamyang Lobsang, who now resides in India after fleeing Tibet, has made a plea as part of the current campaign for the release of his father, who is said to be suffering from stomach ailments and loss of eyesight. "My father Runggye Adak is innocent," said Jamyank. "What he said is true and represents the wishes and aspirations of Tibetans inside Tibet."

Following the arrest in 2007, over 200 Tibetans congregated outside Lithang police station demanding Adak be released. The protesters were met with tear gas, stun guns, metal batons and further detainment. Several of those close to Adak were also arrested, including his nephews Adak Lopoe and Jamyang Kunkhyen, who are serving prison sentences of ten and nine years respectively for informing international media of the speech.

The footage released today by ICT exemplifies the lack of freedom that Tibetans are granted, and the dire consequences they must endure if they choose to take a stand.

The recording was captured by a Western film-maker who was unaware at the time of the significance of what he was shooting. He wishes to remain anonymous.

New Rules Further Crack Down on Internet Access in Tibet

Dolkar Tso's Blog image, Photo: Dolkar Tso's Blog/file

By Mega Davis, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: New internet censorship rules imposed in Tibet this month are just another in a succession of attempts

by Chinese authorities to monitor and limit the amount of information and opinions accessed by and shared between Tibetan people. All computers in the so-called Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) which are intended for use by the public must install new stateof-the-art surveillance software by the end of August.

Policy regarding internet usage has increased dramatically since uprisings in Tibet prior to the 2008 Olympics.

Every individual is now required to show their identity card before using a public computer, as part of the ‘real name’ regime. Combined with the new

compulsory spy software, any material branded politically sensitive by the Chinese government can be tracked and linked to the name of the violator.

The Chinese have built a reputation as pioneers of computer software and have come under scrutiny in the past for their hacking capabilities. For example, in 2009 Canadian researchers reported that computers almost exclusively based in China had used a hi-tech electronic spy system, GhostNet, to infiltrate files and documents from governments and hundreds of private offices worldwide.

Researchers at the Munk Center for International Studies at the University of Toronto found that in less than two years 1,295 computers in 103 countries

had been infiltrated, including many at the Indian embassy and His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s exile centres in India.

Although the researchers could not certify whether the Chinese government was involved, the development in Chinese software was evident.

Chinese authorities appear to be using similar highly developed software to suppress freedom of expression in Tibet.

Blogging websites in particular, which give Tibetans the opportunity to voice their opinions and converse with others over diverse issues, have been systematically shut down by Chinese authorities in the past couple of years.

Most notably in recent months, Dolkar Tso, the wife of a recently imprisoned and highly respected Tibetan environmentalist and activist, has witnessed the permanent closure of five of her blogs in just four weeks. Dolkar began the first blog, “The Epic Behind Heavenly Beads”, on June 2nd 2010, just after Karma Samdrup’s first trial was postponed. It was closed down the following day.

Dolkar persistently started other blogs under the same name, which were all shut down within days - one when the trial restarted, another following her husband's sentencing, and one more the day Samdrup’s elder brother was also sentenced. Her last blog was set up on July 6th. What Dolkar had to say was clearly deemed undesirable material for the public gaze by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Reporters Without Borders have similarly reported that two blogs written by

Chinese Military Truck Drives Through Lithang 12.23.08 (photo taken by Nick G.)

By Matthew Singh-Toor and Sangay

Dharamshala: On August 12 at 1100, two monks from Lithang county town, eastern Tibet, began a demonstration in which they publicly displayed photos of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

As the monks walked from Trung Trung Karmo market to the vegetable market, bystanders were reported to hear them shouting, "Long live His Holiness!".

Local police came to the scene and attempted to arrest the monks but were obstructed by onlookers.

Details of the incident were reported to The Tibet Post International by Sermed Lobga, a Tibetan monk residing in south India, who spoke with contacts from his home town. He told us the Chinese authorities in Lithang use many CCTV cameras to survey the public, and it is likely that the two demonstrators will be identified and arrested.

Sermed Lobga has detailed information about the monks' identities, which he is unable to divulge for fear of reprisals.

127 Dead in Eastern Tibet Landslides

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

residents whilst 45,000 have been evacuated.

Torrential rain began late on Saturday (August 7) and by last night the area was witness to the worst single flooding incident in both China and Tibet this year, as landslides flattened large expanses of land and 300 houses collapsed.

Many roads leading to the area have

been cleared and power in some parts of the county has been restored.

However, regional media reports predict further cloudbursts for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Another report on August 8 stated that the Red Cross Society of China has sent emergency relief worth 320,000 yuan (47,000 US dollars) to aid the relief work by its local branch.

popular Tibetan poet Woeser (also known as ‘Oser’) have been censored.

The blogs, which included poems and essays about Tibetan culture, and were very popular amongst students who wanted to renew their contact with Tibet after being educated in China, were closed down by their host sites in response to government orders.

Himalayanfontblog was another popular blog among writers and activists, and was viewed by many as a bridge between Tibet and the exile community. It too has been completely shut down following a brief closure in January. The author of the blog announced the closure on another website, saying “For emergency reasons I was forced to close down.

Writers and bloggers, we urgently request you to back up articles and important documents.”

Popular blogging websites in Tibet which have been closed down include: * Dolkar Tso's Blog: http:// drolkartso.blog.sohu.com/%20%20 * Khawachen or Snowland: http:// www.kawajian.com/ * Tibetlanguage: http:// www.tibettl.com/ * Tibetanyouth : http:// www.tibet123.com/bbs/ * Himalayanfontblog: http:// 222.186.191.24/blog/

After extensive research it appears to be the case that Tibet.cn, the official Chinese Government online newspaper - their most important tool for propaganda regarding the region - is the only Tibetan news website available to those in Tibet.

The following websites are closed to Tibetan internet users: * Tibet.net * Thetibetpost.com * Phayul.com * Outlooktibet.com * Shambalapost.com * Pressoftibet.com * VOA Tibetan News: http:// www1.voanews.com/tibetan/news/ * Rfa.org/tibetan * Tibetsun.com * Tibettimes.net * Tibetexpress.net * Lhasapost.com Websites of many human rights groups, pro-Tibet campaigns and some international news media organisations have also been carefully censored or removed by the Chinese authorities.

Readers can check whether specific websites are available behind 'the great firewall of China' by visiting http:// w w w. w e b s i t e p u l s e . c o m / h e l p / testtools.china-test.html and entering a site's URL.

6

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

TPI TIBET IN EXILE

Tibetans offered Special Prayers For Drugchu Flood Victims

The Tibet Post

Five Kalon Tripa Candidates to Join Bylakuppe Debate

By The Tibet Post

Tromthok Rinpoche, the abbot of Namgyal Monastery and monks lead prayer service at Tsuglagkhang for victims of devastating heavy rain and mudslides in Tibet's Drugchu.

Photo: Tibet Net/ Drubgyu Nyima

By YC.Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: Hundreds of Tibetans converged at the main Buddhist temple in Dharamshala yesterday morning (August 10) to offer special prayers for the thousands of people affected by floods and mudslides in Drugchu county, eastern Tibet.

The prayers, led by Tromthok Rinpoche, abbot of Namgyal Monastery, were offered in hope of the early attainment of a good rebirth for those killed and a quick recovery for those injured. Tibetan government official media reported the prayers were also offered for the well-being of all humanity.

The hour-long service was organised by the Department of Religion and Culture of the Central Tibetan Administration. It was led by senior

officials of Namgyal Monastery and was attended by the entire staff of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) together with hundreds of Tibetans from both monastic and lay communities in Dharamshala.

According to a report on Tuesday by Xinhua, the Chinese state-controlled media, the mudslides in Drugchu county have taken more than 700 lives and as many as 1,400 people are still missing.

Last week, Tibetans in Dharamshala also organised a prayer ceremony for victims of Ladakh floods that have left more than 100 dead.

On Sunday, both of the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile and the Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration expressed their condolences to the flood victims.

Bylakuppe: With just over a month until the preliminary elections for the prestigious exile post of Kalon Tripa (prime minister), a group of volunteers in Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement have announced a major public debate, Katri Droeleng Chenmo, to be held on September 3.

Five major Kalon Tripa candidates have so far come forward to join the historic debate.

At a press conference yesterday, the spokesman of the volunteer group, Mr Lobsang Dorjee, said, "Tibet's spiritual and temporal leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who has attained 75 years old, has widely announced that he is semi-retired and that the major political leadership of the Tibetan Government in exile is being borne by the Kalon Tripa who is elected by the people.

Mr Lobsang continued, "Therefore the Kalon Tripa had not only emerged as the political leader recognized as the head of the Tibetan Governmentin-exile but also emerged as a significant mark of advancement of Tibetan democracy and our preparation for the worst. So it is the primary responsibility of the people and the need of the hour to elect a Kalon Tripa who could fulfill the aspirations of the Tibetan people".

Mr Lobsang said the organizers had invited over 13 main Kalon Tripa candidates, based on nominations released by various associations, NGOs and groups, and had so far received confirmation from five

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts Celebrates 51st Anniversary

The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) on Wednesday marked 51 years of excellence in preserving and promoting traditional Tibetan theatre and opera in exileon 11 August 2010, Dharamshala, India. Photo: TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

His Eminence the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorjee graced the ceremony and other guests included officials from the Tibetan Government-in-exile and representatives of Tibetan NGOs and monastic institutions. Only selected members of media were invited as the

celebration was a closed-door event.

TIPA's director, Shosur Sonam Choephel, outlined the history of Tibetan arts and opera, and promoted two new TIPA publications - Opera History and The History of TIPA. Mr Choephel thanked the scholars and writers who worked on the books,

including Geshe Beri Jigme Wangyal.

In a brief address, Gyalwa Karmapa said, "Among many cultural and religious learning centres established

by His Holiness the Dalai Lama after coming to exile, the TIPA has become the most important centre of the preservation of Tibetan art and opera culture.

"The primary responsibility of TIPA is to preserve and promote the vast repertoire of theatrical arts that has been passed from generation to generation in Tibet. Therefore, we must express gratitude to the institute's past and present members who have ceaselessly contributed towards fulfilling His Holiness's wishes and the good of Tibet's secular and religious heritage. I call on the members to continuously make concerted efforts".

The Yarkyi festival's final day incLuded dramatic presentations of the life of Gautham Buddha and music from Tibetan Mahayogini Jetsun Milarepa, who performed in a competition of traditional song and dance.

TIPA was established? by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in August 1959 to preserve Tibetan artistic culture in the face of Chinese occupation. The institute has 112 members, including artistes, instructors, administrative staff and craftspeople.

candidates: Trisur T N Tethong; Tibetan Parliament Speaker Mr Penpa Tsering; Deputy Speaker Mrs Gyari Dolma; scholar Mr Lobsang Sangey and Mr Sonam Topgyal Khorlhatsang, secretary of the Tibetan Homes Foundation Mussoorie.

The organizers told the press the objective of the debate is to enlighten the public on various aspects of the forthcoming elections and facilitate the Tibetan people in making correct and enlightened decisions. The debate will afford the candidates the opportunity to explain their agendas, policies and leadership plans.

Mr Lobsang added that, "At this critical moment, when Tibetan democracy and the struggle have reached a historic threshold, copious debates were being held in Tibetan communities the world over on the issue of next Kalon Tripa.

"However, so far, Bylakuppe settlement, which boasts of having the largest contingent of diaspora population did not have the privilege of hosting or savoring a public debate on the next Kalon Tripa on a scale that involves major Katri candidates.

"Therefore we deem it highly crucial to provide the people here an opportunity to listen to our prominent leaders express their opinions and debate key issues that matter most to them and the struggle at large.

"Our democracy is strongest when our leaders are accessible and participate in an open and honest discussion about various national issues. As such, the participation of the Kalon

I

n

Tripa candidates in our debate is a strong testament to their commitment towards promotion of democracy and an accountable government."

Finally, Mr Lobsang said the volunteers organising the debate would disband at the event's conclusion.

The Organizers (Volunteers) 1) Mr Lobsang Yeshi, former Vice President Tibetan Youth Congress 2) Mr Pema Delek, former MP & President All India Tibetan Cooperative Federation 3) MrTashi Wangdue, former representative Lugsam Tibetan Settlement Bylakuppe 4) Mr Lobsang Dorjee, President Rotary Lhasa Bylakuppe, advisor RTYC Bylakuppe 5) Mr Tashi Delek, regional reporter Bangchen Tibetan newspaper 6) Mr Jigdrel Tenzin, regional reporter Voice of America 7) Ven. Tsewang, Centrex member Tibetan Rights and Freedom Restoration Committee 8) Ven. Gelong, Founder Tibetan Rights and Freedom Restoration Committee (Centrex) 9) Mr Gelek Jungney, former Vice President RTYC Bylakuppe 10) Ven. Sonam Dorjee, former disciplinarian Sera Jey Monastery 11) Ven. Jangchup Choephel, Lharampa Geshe Sera Jey Monastery 12) Ven. Yeshi Jangchup, Lharampa Sera Jey Monastery Issued by: Bylakuppe Katri Droeleng Chenmo Organizers

The Tibet P st t

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The Tibet Post International Press of Tibet (Head Office) 1st Floor, Dolkhang House, Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamsala, Distt.

Kangra H.P 176219 India

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Mr. Thomas Keimel Dr. Vincent Brucel Mr. YC. Dhardhowa Mrs. Yangyal Sham Mr. Sangay Ms. Keary Huang Ven Phuntsok Dhondup Mr. Tenzin Kunga

Tele: 0091-1892-224641 Moble:+91-9882423566 E-mail: editor@thetibetpost.com www.thetibetpost.com

The Tibet Post

TPI INTERNATIONAL

European MP Initiative is Launched

ETC is a biennial assembly of all Tibetan Communities in Europe. Photo: TPI

By YC.Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: The second ETC Organizing Committee is launching the European Chitue (MP) Initiative. This is an initiative to engage in a pre-election search for eligible candidates to run for office in the upcoming Tibetan Parliamentary preliminary elections in October 2010, and the final elections in March 2011.

The role of the next parliamentary representatives from Europe is of tremendous importance, as the

number of Tibetans living in Europe is on the rise. According to the Tibetan Charter-in-exile, Tibetans living in Europe can elect two representatives.

"I believe that it is important that individuals committed to the Tibetan issue, combined with a good understanding of the European system, represent Tibetans living in Europe," said Thupten Gyatso, Chairperson of the ETC committee,

which started this initiative. However, during the last general elections to the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile, only 36 per cent of the registered voters, or around 800 people out of 2224 registered voters, elected the two deputies from Europe.

"This is very disheartening. A democracy is only as strong as the people who participate in the process," Mr. Gyatso pointed out.

"While we expect the Central Tibetan Administration to find a solution to one of the hardest problems, we also need to put in effort from our part as individual Tibetans. As the oppression in Tibet continues, and there is no immediate breakthrough in the dialogue with the Chinese government, it is imperative that Tibetans use the democratic system to put forward our best candidates.

This will improve our democracy and add strength to our common cause."

Tibetans living in Europe can visit the ETC website (http:// europetibetancongress.wordpress.com/ ) and nominate their candidates, who will be listed as nominations are sent in. The criteria for candidates are that nominee be over 25 years old, have current residency in Europe, and holds a green book. The ETC believes more information and transparency will improve the democratic process, and was inspired by the Kalon Tripa initiative launched by Mr. Thubten Samdup.

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

7

Tibet Fest to Honour quake Victims

Tenzin Norzom, Kingfisher Miss Tibet 2010, joined a signature campaign with activists in Dharamshala on Friday Photo:TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Seattle: Seattle's 15th Annual Tibetan Festival, Tibet Fest, scheduled to take place from 28th-29th August, will be dedicated to the victims of the Kyigudo earthquake that shook the Tibetan region in April this year.

The Tibetan Association of Washington, who are organising the event, seeks to help young Tibetans establish stronger ties with their cultural heritage through

song, dance and folk tales, whilst residing in their new communities.

The two-day event will feature a performance from Tibet's best known R&B singer, Phurbu T Namgral, along with traditional Tibetan performers, arts, handicrafts and foods. Expert speakers on Tibet will give talks, and a series of workshops will run throughout the festival.

Hollywood Hits Dharamshala

US Must Urge China on Human Rights

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: A group of experts have urged the United States Congress to further their efforts to press China on issues of human rights abuses and reversals in their rule of law since 2008, Reuters reported on Tuesday (August 2). The plea comes after mounting evidence of a crackdown on ethnic minorities and critics of the Chinese regime.

Human rights and legal experts have accused Washington of downplaying human rights abuses in order to secure economic relations with Beijing.

The Diu Hua Foundation, a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving

universal human rights through wellinformed dialogue between the US and China, has compiled a list of 5,800 people in China imprisoned for non-violent expression of religious or political belief.

Jerome Cohen, of the New York University School of Law, told the congressional panel that the statistics reveal a clearly concentrated effort to target political activists and those who represent them in court.

The experts urged the panel to increase their annual human rights talks with Beijing to at least twice a year, raise the ranks of official participation and concentrate on specific cases as opposed to the general tone preferred by Chinese authorities.

DEFENDING ACTIVIST LAWYERS: Professor Jerome A. Cohen, New York School of Law, co-director of the U.S.-Asia Law Institute, is a leading expert on Chinese law. (Gary Feuerberg/The Epoch Times)

A group of Tibetan volunteers launched a website to campaign for a candidate of Mr Lobsang Sangay, Photo:TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Environmentalist's Appeal Rejected

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Tibet environmentalist, Mr Karma Samdup visiting UN Building in New York in 2004.

Photo/file/Woeser's Blog

Beijing: An appeal by Karma Samdrup, the Tibetan environmentalist sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for grave robbery and dealing in looted antiquities, was rejected outright by a Chinese court on July 7th, the Associated Press reported yesterday (July 3).

The tomb-raiding charges against Samdrup, the businessman and 2006 Environmentalist of the Year, date back to a 1998 when looted items were found in his possession. His lawyer, Pu Zhiqiang, has said he was unaware of the origin of the wooden artifacts and other antiques in question.

There was no response to the documents filed by Zhiqiang for his client's appeal, which was rejected without any explanation from the

Dhasa: Richard Gere, a prominent Hollywood actor and dedicated advocate of human rights in Tibet, has chosen outdoor locations in Dharamshala and Ladakh for his new movie, after permission to film in the socalled Tibetan Autonomous Region was denied by Chinese authorities. Mr Gere has been planning the film for the last five years and has confirmed filming will begin next month.

Lobsang Wangyal, director of the Miss Tibet Pageant and close friend of the filmstar, has said the movie is based on Tibet

and Buddhism. The finer details, however, are unknown. The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts has reportedly been contacted by Mr Gere to feature in the film.

Mr Gere, who is chairman of the board of directors of the International Campaign for Tibet, has sponsored many programmes for Tibetans living in exile since his first visit to Dharamshala in the late 1980s. As a result of his strong support for the Tibetan cause, the actor is permanently prohibited form entering the People's Republic of China.

Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture Intermediate Court. Many of Samdrup's supporters believe he is being made an example of due to his public role in environmental activism.

Zhiqiang suspects the steadfast dismissal of the appeal may be an attempt at a cover-up.

Since the initial ruling, Human Rights

Watch have reported that Samdrup has been beaten by prison officials as well as undergoing several months of interrogation, sleep deprivation, and that he was drugged with a substance that causes the eyes and ears to bleed.

Attempts by the Associated Press to contact the court for further information have fallen on deaf ears.

8

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

TPI TIBET IN EXILE

CTA Mourns Demise of TPIE Secretary

Mr Phurbu Tsering (2/5/1953 - 29/7/2010). Photo: Tibet Net

By Tibetan official media: Tibet Net

Dharamshala: As a mark of condolence and respect for the passing away of Tibetan Parliamentary Secretary Mr Phurbu Tsering la, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) held a prayer session from 2-3pm today, after which its remained closed for the day. Mr Phurbu dedicated 37 years of his life to the Tibetan civil service.

Mr Phurbu, who had been ill for several months, breathed his last at the Tibetan Delek Hospital in Dharamsala on 29 July 2010, at the age of 57.

Mr Phurbu joined the CTA civil service as an accountant-cum-junior clerk at a Tibetan settlement in Nepal's Solo Khumbu region on 16 August 1973.

After completing his probation period, he served as a junior clerk in various locations, including the Lugsung Samdupling Co-operative Society at Bylakuppe, the Office of Tibet Affairs at Delhi, and progressed to become acting head of the Centre of Tibetan Religious Artifacts at Dharamsala and

an accountant at the security department from 1 September 1978 to 10 October 1985.

From 15 April 1987 to 2 January 1991, Mr Phurbu worked as manager of the Tibetan Handicraft Centres at Mundgod and Dekyi Larsoe Tibetan settlements in Bylakuppe.

He was promoted to under-secretary on 1 August 1992 and posted at the Department of Security. He continued to work at the department till 23 August 1993, after being promoted to deputy secretary on 15 June. He was promoted to joint secretary on 5 February 1999.

From 19 March 1999 to 3 November 2001, he worked as joint secretary at the ealth department and election commission.

Mr Phurbu was promoted to the post of additional secretary on 7 June 2007.

He was the acting secretary for Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat from 19 May 2008 to 16 August 2008, and was promoted to become the secretariat's secretary general on 1 June 2010.

The Tibet Post

Dolma Gyalri Announces Run For Next Tibetan PM

By Sangay and Megan Davis, TPI

Dharamshala: Dolma Gyalri, the current Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in-exile, held a personal press conference this morning at the Lhapa Tsering Memory Hall of the Tibetan Department of Information in Dharamshala, where she announced her intentions to run for Prime Minister (Kalon Tripa) in the upcoming elections.

"If the Tibetan people support me and give me the chance, I have the strength to become the next Prime Minister", she said.

After thanking the journalists in attendance for coming, she spoke of the well-known competition that surrounds the election of the 15th Tibetan Parliament members and Prime Minister, and how people are paying far more attention to the process than in previous years.

"I held this press conference today in order announce my future standing and to make clear my objectives for the election," Dolma explained.

A Member of Parliament (MP) since 1991, when she was first elected to the 11th Tibetan Parliament in-exile, Dolma has been continuously re-elected. "For the last 19 years I have worked as hard as I can in this position...but this year I have already decided not to join the nominations for the 15th Parliament".

As a Parliament representative of the Kham (Dhotoe) region of Tibet, Dolma used the opportunity to thank the people of this province for their support and for giving her the chance to be an MP for the last 19 years. However, she also stressed that she applied herself equally

Dolma Gyari, the current deputy speaker of Tibetan Parliament in-exile. Photo: TPI/file

to all Tibetan people in her work. "This is what I committed to when I took the oath to become a Member of Parliament, a promise I made most importantly to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Dolma revealed that her decision to make her intentions public was hindered by fears of the response to the fact she is a woman. Although she has never experienced gender inequality directly, something she feels very lucky to be able to say, she was concerned that her status as the first female to run for the primeministerial position would cause problems.

Until now, Dolma was anxious that coming out to society with her announcement would be met by difficulties.

"These days, I often think about such things. I am lucky enough to have been

born in a democratic state and live under His Holiness; I have no direct experience of the Chinese genocide in Tibet; I have studied in school, been to college, and joined different associations. During this time I was never looked down upon as a woman, I had no idea about gender discrimination. I never had these problems."

However, Dolma admitted, "If I was a man I would have perhaps already announced my intentions. But, thanks to the Charter of Tibetans-in-exile and the good leader His Holiness, we have gender equality so to take this opportunity is very important."

The Deputy Speaker spoke graciously about the commitment she would have as PM and assured Tibetans that she has the strength and dedication to uphold this position.

New Dhotoe MP Nominees Announced

Condolences Offered For Flood Victims

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

A message from the Tibetan Parliament offered their prayers to those injured in the tragedy and for the deceased, for whom they pray for the attainment of an early rebirth. They also spoke of their fears for those who continue to live in the low-lying areas of the region, as rampant mining and deforestation by the Chinese since the invasion has made the area susceptible to such natural disasters. Hopes that the

Chinese government will recognise the effects of their projects on Tibet's natural environment were also expressed.

The Kashag organised a special prayer session to take place early this morning at the Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala, in memory of those whose lives were lost and also to pray for the recovery of those injured, both physically and psychologically.

Flashfloods Ravage Leh

Dhotoe Leadership Nomination Committee Announced its nominees for 15th Tibetan Parliament in-exile on Satuarday at Hotel Tibet.

Photo: TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

way and workers continue to search for survivors, amid fears that the death toll could surpass 500, after torrential rain hit the Himalayan region.

Choglamsar, located 5km from Leh, is believed to be one of the worst hit villages, where over 200 people are still reported missing. Villages along the Chang La pass, the world's

second highest motorable highway, are also believed to have been swept away by the flash floods. The Lehto-Manali road should be reopened within a couple of days as heavy earth-moving equipment has been called into service. The road, one of only two lifelines to Ladakh, is a vital access route for material relief, food, fuel and military supplies.

Dhasa: The Dhotoe Volunteer Committee for Leadership Nomination this morning held a press conference at Hotel Tibet, Dharamshala, where they announced 27 nominees for the upcoming election of the 15th Tibetan Parliament. Ten members from each of the three traditional Tibetan provinces will be voted in by the public.

The nominations were discussed on two separate occasions by over 20

members of the newly founded committe, who originate from around Dhotoe (Kham) region of eastern Tibet. Information on each of those selected will be distributed to the public.

At today's press conference, three representative of the committee - Mr. Sangye Tashi, Geshe Rinchen Ngoedhup and Geshe Tashi Sonam addressed those in attendance and spoke of the selection process. The

candidates were chosen for their active roles in Tibetan society and for their notable education; both of which are seen as necessary attributes for members of parliament.

The primary elections are due to be held on October 3, followed by the general election on 20 March 2011. The volunteer committee said the candidates' ranking in the listings is not an indication of qualification - rather, voters should examine each candidate's profile.

The Tibet Post

TPI DR.LOBSANG SANGAY

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

9

10 Questions for Dr. Lobsang Sangay

Dr. Lobsang Sangay is a Senior Fellow at the East Asian Legal Studies Program at Harvard Law School Photo:TPI

By Rinchen, a student of University of Utah in U.S

Dr. Lobsang Sangay is a Senior Fellow at the East Asian Legal Studies Program at Harvard Law School. He studied at CST Darjeeling, BA (Hons) and LLB in Delhi University and in 1992, was a member of the Central Executive of Tibetan Youth Congress (CENTREX). He did his LLM (Masters) in 1996, and in 2004 earned Ph.D. degree and became not only the first among six million Tibetans but also from Himalayan region including Bhutan, Nepal and Mongolia.

After spending six years doing research mainly in Dharamshala, he wrote his doctoral dissertation on Democracy and History of Tibetan government in exile from 1959-2004 for which he was awarded Yong K. Kim 95 Special Award of Excellence. He also authored a book on Human Rights in Tibetan language.

He travels around the world giving lectures on Tibet and has published in several journals and books and was selected as one of the twenty-four young leaders of Asia in 2006 by Asia Society based in New York, USA. Dr. Lobsang Sangey, is being seen as a strong contender for the 2011 Kalon Tripa (Tibetan Prime Minister-in-exile) in the upcoming General Election.

Following is the interview with Dr. Lobsang Sangay by Rinchen, a student of University of Utah in U.S. 1. You are considered as one of the leading candidates for the Kalon Tripa Election. How do you feel?

I'm humbled to see my name mentioned as a viable Kalon Tripa candidate. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to fellow Tibetans for their support and encouragement. Whether I win or lose, I will do my best to live up to their expectations and continue to work for our sacred cause.

Ultimately, Tibetan democracy and its electoral process should be the winner which is only possible through public participation and I will duly serve my role to engage in every possible way.

The fact that an ordinary Tibetan raised in a refugee settlement camp and a Central Tibetan School (CST) is seen as a potential Kalon Tripa is, in my view, evidence of the progress our community has made in the last five decades. It is a testament of confidence in the new generation of Tibetans which is the fruit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's far-sighted vision and his tireless effort to promote reforms and democratic practices in our society. The Tibetan Legal Charter states that any able Tibetan above the

age of 35 can aspire for such a highprofile office in the Tibetan Government-in-Exile.

2. Your potential candidacy for Kalon Tripa has generated a good deal of attention. Many Tibetans are keen to know what you've been doing in the United States for the last fifteen years.

I came to the United States in 1995 on a Fulbright Scholarship, and attended Harvard Law School. After completing my Masters, Harvard offered me a scholarship and I enrolled into a Ph.D program there.

Upon completing my Ph.D. in 2004, I wrote to the Department of Education in Dharamsala about my status, my academic work including Track II Diplomacy with Chinese scholars and sought their guidance. On 17 June of 2005, Sherig responded with a decision that academic work at my university will be considered equivalent to Tibetan community service, thereby waiving my service bond. The Fulbright Program endorsed my academic and Track II Diplomatic work and strongly supported my stay at Harvard. On 13 February 2007, the US Department of State granted me a visa waiver. I got appointed as a Research Fellow at the Harvard Law School and promoted to a Research Associate in 2008. I still maintain the Indian Certificate (IC) for travels, including to India.

On the academic front, in the last fifteen years, instead of pursuing a private lucrative career as a lawyer like most of my Harvard classmates, I have steadfastly worked on how best to help Tibet and Tibetan people. I have taken courses from and interacted with the best minds in the world on China, international politics, democratic constitutionalism, leadership, conflict resolution, human rights, western philosophy and anything that will strengthen the case of Tibet. I spend every day trying to do something on Tibet and regularly travel around the world to promote the Tibet issue.

3. To whom do you credit the accomplishments you have had so far in your life, and who inspires you?

I'm reminded of my graduation commencement in 2004 when my good friend, the late Tendar la of the Office of Tibet in New York, asked me a similar question for a piece for Phayul (http:// w w w. p h a y u l . c o m / n e w s / article.aspx?id=7093&t=1). The three things that I have and continue to be profoundly grateful for are His Holiness the Dalai Lama; my parents

who never understood why I took much longer studying in University than in high school; and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. When I didn't have much, Tibetan government under the leadership of His Holiness provided and protected me. Now having stood firmly on my feet both professionally and personally, I remain committed in doing all I can to strengthen and sustain the achievements resulting from the hard work of elders in laying a solid foundation for the Tibetan government and our movement.

4. Websites and current Blogosphere discussions have you and Tenzin Namgyal Tethong la as the two leading candidates for the 2011 Kalon Tripa elections. Your thoughts?

It is an honor to be mentioned along with Trisur Tenzin Namgyal Tethong la, whom I know well and have respect for. I believe it's still too early as the initial chatter and buzz has been mostly internet-generated through various websites, blogs and chat rooms among youths and netizens but the majority of Tibetans have limited access to the Internet.

I've highlighted the dismal voter turnout in the 2006 Kalon Tripa election where more than seventy percent of eligible voters did not vote --- a lower turnout than Iraq and Afghanistan where citizens voted in spite of voter intimidation and a real threat of being killed. (http://www.phayul.com/news/ article.aspx?id=26694) Will 2011 be different? I'm hearing Tibetans might want something different than the status quo. Well have to wait and see.

I hope we have much higher voter participation this time around.

Regardless of who you vote for in the Chitue and Kalon Tripa elections, I urge every eligible Tibetan who can vote to register before the August 18, 2010 deadline. Please contact your local Tibetan associations ASAP. 5. Some have highlighted the experience of working in Dharamsala as important requirements for the Kalon Tripa post. Your thoughts?

Like elections in any other country, the upcoming Kalon Tripa election will among other things be a choice between the status quo and change.

The people content with maintaining the status quo will obviously play up the experience card, but those wanting change will be advocating for a candidate with a fresh set of eyes and ideas.

Recently, Indians voted for the status quo and re-elected Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Similarly, in 1988, Americans voted for the status quo and elected the then Vice-President Bush Sr. as the President of the United States of America. But recently in the United Kingdom, change as represented by David Cameron and Nick Clegg (43 and 42 years old respectively) trumped the experience of Gordon Brown and his Labor Party.

Likewise the American Presidential elections of 1992, 2000 and 2008, when lack of experience in Washington DC was made an issue but the advocates for change prevailed. In 1992, Bill Clinton defeated the incumbent President Bush Sr. Governor Bush Jr. of Texas defeated the more experienced and Washington DC-based Al Gore in 2000. In 2008, a young senator (46 years old Obama) surprised both his more experienced primary challenger (Hilary)

and his eventual opponent (McCain).

So experience albeit important is not the determining factor. Because, at one point, everyone starts anew or afresh as the President or Prime Minister, and faces new sets of challenges and opportunities. Ultimately, like with any new government, the success of Kalon Tripa will depend on team work. As long as you have a combination of seniors with experience and wisdom, the young professionals, women, and educated people who have knowledge and respect for Tibetan tradition and culture, the Kashag will succeed.

In relation to my experience: even though I have not worked in Dharamsala from 9-5 in an office, I understand Gangchen Kyishong pretty well. Whenever I am invited by the government, Parliament, Tibetan Youth, Women or other organizations to give lectures and workshops, I have often obliged. Having traveled there almost every year and spent anywhere from few weeks to few months, I interact and have strong relationships with every level of Tibetan leadership with the respected Kalons, Chitues, administrators in bureaucracy and activists in non-governmental organizations. Having consulted a number of them, many seem to be confident that I can do the job.

I have a fair understanding of politics in Dharamsala, as I spent six years doing research for my doctorate dissertation and interviewed the "who's who" of the Tibetan community from late Kundeling Kungo, Kungo Tara, Sandu Rinchen to the present Kalon Tripa Samdhong Rinpoche not to mention the Kalons, Chitues, civil servants and personalities of NGOs. Having written extensively on the founding of the Tibetan government and democracy from 1959 to 2004, I believe I have a pretty good grasp of the inner workings of Dharamsala.

Yes, administrative experience is important, but administration is essentially about law. Having researched the Tibetan constitution and the Charter, Indian, American and other comparative constitutions, I am pretty confident that my twenty years of legal background will come in handy.

It is not a coincidence that many of the world leaders are lawyers. President Obama and Hillary Clinton are both lawyers. Vice President Xi Jinping and Vice-Premier Li Keqiang of China, who will take over as President and Prime Minister in 2012, have legal backgrounds. President Ma Ying Jeou of Taiwan is also a lawyer.

Most importantly, I'm very secure in knowing that I understand and can empathize with the average Tibetans. I am familiar with the situation in the Shichaks (Tibetan settlements). I know what it feels like to go through another season of poor harvest in the Shichaks or warm weather for the sweater-selling season in the winter. I have lived in a Shichak, accompanied my parents on sweater-selling trips, and eaten the Tingmo and Dal, the staple diet at various Tibetan schools. Because of these experiences, I would consider it a privilege to return to Dharamsala and serve under His Holiness.

6. What do you see as some of the key responsibilities of the next Kalon Tripa?

First we have to define whether the Kalon Tripa is a leader or an

administrator. If Kalon Tripa is simply an administrator, then experience, both institutional and personal, is a must.

However, His Holiness himself has stressed, as our democracy progresses, the Kalon Tripa should assume more political leadership.

Organizational studies define the core qualities of leadership as vision/ planning; the ability to communicate and inspire; the courage to lead and execute, among many others, with experience as an additional skill.

For the Kalon Tripa as a leader, the primary responsibility is to resolve the Chinese occupation and alleviate the challenges faced by our brave compatriots in Tibet. Secondly, it is to gain support from the international community and to raise the profile of the Tibetan government which is rather weak. Thirdly, the Kalon Tripa has to sustain and strengthen our exile government in India while at the same time securing support from the Indian public. Fourthly, the Kalon Tripa must monitor daily developments in China and strategize our short and long term plans and policies to deal both with the government and the people of China. Lastly, the Kalon Tripa must be cognizant of the aspirations and anxieties of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, and must ensure the welfare of the exile community both in Asia and the West. Within this it is important to interact with and nurture our youth to engage in the Tibetan government and the Tibetan movement.

If therefore the Kalon Tripa is a leader with these responsibilities, the last two decades of my life have given me extensive experience in all these five categories. My interaction with hundreds of top Chinese scholars as well as intellectuals, diplomats and leaders from around the world have given me a close view of global real politik. In depth exchanges with scholars and students from Tibet have enriched my understanding of their aspirations, their current reality and the complex path towards resolution. And needless to say, growing up in India provided personal affinities with Shichaks and Indian communities.

7. Several Tibet Support Groups and activists advocate using the Chinese legal system to make a case for Tibetans inside Tibet. What would you, as a legal scholar, bring to the table if you were elected as the next Kalon Tripa?

I have fifteen years of experience directly interacting and debating with Chinese scholars. I know quite a bit about Chinese politics and laws as well as the Chinese mindset. Through multitrack diplomacy, I have brought together hundreds of Tibetan and Chinese scholars in unprecedented ways at various large conferences at Harvard.

I am in agreement with Tibet supporters that one tactic is to conduct a thorough examination of existing Chinese laws and use them to alleviate challenges facing Tibetans in Tibet. As Vaclav Havel, the former President of Czech Republic stated in his seminal book, "The Power of the Powerless," when a state mistreats people, it uses law as a justification. Therefore, the power of the oppressed is to utilize the same law to seek redress. It is a win-win ....... P 10

10

15 August, 2010 Dharamsala

South Zone Office Correct to Close Voter Registration

Chief Election Commissioner of Tibetan government in-exile,Mr Jampal Choesang, new additional Election Commissioner Ven. Geshe Rigzin Choedak amd Mr Chutpar Yangkho Gyal.Photo:TPI

By YC.Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: The Central Tibetan Admistration's (CTA) Bangalore Regional Election Officer-cum-Chief Representative was right to close voter registration on August 7, according to the Election Commission (EC) in Dharamsala, which says many regional election offices in India and western countries had different closing dates.

In a letter dated August 10, the EC commended the south zone officer for making "proper and successful" registration and said failure to register on time by some individuals was due to their apathy.

This bears significance as Phayul website posted a report on August 8 which made allegations that the south zone office was tainting Tibetan democracy by misinterpreting election rules.

"This is to acknowledge your [south zone office's] seven-page letter," the letter read, "including the covering letter dated 9 August 2010, regarding voter registration and copies of the related documents on the notices to the public on the voter registration that you had sent through the heads of local organizations.

"We commend the successful work carried by your office on the voter registration. Recently, a girl describing herself as a working staff in Bangalore telephoned us that some people in the area reportedly remained to be registered.

"We consider lack of awareness on the part of individual persons for their failure to register despite extensive public announcements made by your office. We also conveyed to the caller that the south zone office had made no mistake.

Kindly register until 18 August those people who had failed to register and the list should reach this office latest by 25 August 2010".

10 Questions for ..... proposition, because you can prove either that China does not abide by its own laws if they do not implement their laws or if they do implement, then we can gain our rights. As you might know, Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were all lawyers who used their oppressors' laws to gain rights for their people. I humbly feel my years of having studied Chinese politics, Chinese laws and monitoring the legal situation in China will come to good use in our movement.

8. How does religion play a role in your life?

Religion plays an important role in my life. My late father was a monk in Tibet, but disrobed during escape and later settled in India. Everyday, he recited his prayers and imparted to me as a child the importance of religion. My mother, who lives with me, prays daily and still does her 108 prostrations despite knee and back problems. My wife ends her day with a short prayer book. Since August of last year, I have attended three teachings by His Holiness. I hope to attend an upcoming teaching in Dharamsala in September. I am doing my best to fulfill my late father's parting words, that one can only take religion when you leave this world. Obviously, these teachings help me pray for my late father, loved ones, Tibetan compatriots and sentient beings in the world. As the saying goes, "Serving our society is also dharma."

9. You recently visited various Shichaks in India. Where did you go and do you plan to go again?

Just to make it clear, before coming to the US, I had visited many Shichaks in different capacities, including Himachal and Uttaranchal, Mainpat, Bylakuppe, Hunsur, Kollegal and obviously many settlements in Nepal and the North East as I am from the area.

This June I was invited by few

organizations to give a workshop on "The State of the Tibetan Movement: Ten Powers." I want to sincerely thank all those who organized the visit to Shichaks, monasteries and schools. It's always a humbling experience to visit the Shichaks, and I feel at home in the Shichak settlements.

This time my India trip took me again to Hunsur, Kollegal, Byllakupe and Dharamsala. But it was my first time to Mundgod. I also visited all the major monasteries in Southern India, and several schools. Altogether with this and previous trips, I have now visited almost sixty percent of all the shichaks, important monasteries belonging to the Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, Geluk, and Bon traditions, and many TCV and CST schools. I hope to cover seventy five percent of all the shichaks before the preliminary election (Oct. 3rd) for the Kalon Tripa. \In addition to the shichaks and schools in India, I have met hundreds of fellow Tibetans in North America, Europe and Australia. My profession as a scholar enables me to participate in scholarly gatherings around the globe where I have met and interacted with numerous scholars from Tibet as well.

I am a strong believer that one of the best ways to consolidate and energize our democracy is to strengthen the democratic process. I am fortunate to be provided this great honor and fantastic opportunity to be a candidate for this high profile position, so it is incumbent upon me to do my utmost best. I traveled to Shichaks to meet with people, monks in monasteries and students and youth to understand their aspirations, anxieties, optimism and challenges. I strongly believe a good leader is one who interacts with and understands people's mindsets. Hence I urge every potential candidate to travel and meet with fellow Tibetans as such

TPI

The Tibet Post

Discussing the Middle Way

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dhasa: The three-day General Meeting of the People for the Movement of the Middle Way began today in Dharamshala.

The speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-inexile, Mr Penpa Tsering, attended as special guest along with around 100 others, including representative members from 15 regional chapters and envoys from Tibetan non-government organisations.

Attendees stood to sing traditional Tibetan songs to mark to beginning of the meeting, which were followed by an introduction by Mr Doctor Kyenrob, coordinator of the middle way movement.

Mr Yuten Gyaltso later reported on the

Movement of Middle-Way held its general meeting in Dharamshala, India on 3rd August 2010. Photo: TPI Photo: TPI movement's activities and expenses over the past year and a half.

Penpa Tsering addressed the audience with the main tenets of the middle way

approach, which seeks genuine autonomy as opposed to complete independence. He spoke of the importance of the approach for the struggle and why it is necessary to emphasise that this is the viewpoint of the majority of Tibetan people, not just His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The next two days will focus on ways in which the people of Tibet can advance the movement and how amiable relations between Tibetans and Chinese (something which the Dalai Lama strongly advocates) can be promoted and achieved.

The expansion of the movement and its future developments will also be discussed, as well as the election of additional coordinators.

China Sentences Two Tibetans in Eastern Tibet

Chinese military base in Karze county, eastern Tibet. Photo: TPI

By Megan Davis, The Tibet Post

Dharamshala: Two Tibetans, Geluk and Wangchuk from Dege Jodha county, eastern Tibet, have been sentenced to one year each in prison on charges of refusing to sow crops, in protest against the Chinese government's policies towards Tibet and Tibetans.

"The latest information tells us that Gelug was sentenced to one-and-a-half

experience will only help you become a better Kalon Tripa.

I have engaged in debate in Switzerland, and in Portland, Oregon, and have an upcoming debate in San Francisco, California. I am doing my best to create awareness about our democratic system, and also learning a lot in the process. I hope that others will follow suit.

10: Are you standing for the post of Kalon Tripa?

I will issue a brief and simple press release explaining why I will go through the preliminary round of the Kalon Tripa election. This is another effort on my part to strengthen our democratic process by taking every formal step of a regular election campaign. So in the next election, candidates will conduct themselves in a like manner and participate as in any other normal election in any other democratic nation.

When candidates are actively involved in the election process, voters will also be actively engaged and involved. If this happens, it will be my contribution to the Tibetan community, to our democracy and to our movement.

Please register by August 15th and go vote in both the Chitue and Kalon Tripa election. I wish the candidates all the best and all my Tibetan brothers and sisters a better tomorrow. Tashi Delek Dr. Lobsang Sangey can be reached at losangsengye@gmail.com

years and Wangchuk to one year," Geshe Monlam Tharchin on Saturday told The Tibet Post International.

Ven Tharchin further reported that, "In 2009 many Tibetans have been arrested by the Chinese armed police in Gojong County, Dege area, Eastern Tibet."

After the crackdowns that took place in 2008, Tibetans from many areas in Dege Jodha district have continued to refuse to farm, to show solidarity for Tibetans from all over of Tibet. They resist Chinese pressure to plant, sow and toil in order to remember those who have lost their lives under the Chinese, those who have been brutally beaten and arrested, and those who are missing.

Local Chinese officials have informed Tibetan farmers that they will be awarded 10,000 Yuan if they sow crops, and have even announced that they plan to reward Tibetans who follow government orders with luxury cars during the horse-race festival. But

instead of taking advantage of these offers, farmers continue to show solidarity with those Tibetan countrymen and women who have suffered under the crackdown.

The sources say that Chinese officials continue to practise the 'patriotic reeducating law', which forces local Tibetans to denounce spiritual leaders, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The sources also say that, during the spring prayer festival, many Tibetans were brutally beaten and arrested after burning wild-animal skins, and that many are still missing .

Last year, Tibetans in the following areas of Dege Jodha district refused to plant crops or tend their fields for one month: Jiwariwa; Dragan; Tsanbha; Ambha; Godha; Dhotrengdha; Ketreng; Jodha; Washul; Gazi; Shilu; Nguldha; Thartse; Bhothang; Khathang; Radhoruwa.

Tibetan Writer Shogdung Faces Trial

The Tibetan writer and intellectual Tragyal pen name Shogdung, arrested by the Chinese Government. Photo: files

By Matthew Singh Toor, The Tibet Post

Beijing: The Tibetan writer and intellectual Tragyal - pen name Shogdung - has expressed fears that he will be executed by the Chinese authorities for his anti-Beijing write-ups.

He was arrested in April publishing the

book The Line Between Sky and Earth, reports Asian News International.

Mr Tragyal, 47, who was an employee of a state-run publisher, faces charges of 'splittism'. The book, published in March, is a poetic, painstakingly written indictment of Chinese rule and a call for a 'peaceful revolution' against what Tragyal describes as Beijing's heavyhanded governing style.

The public security bureau in the western province of Qinghai (Chinese name; Tibetan name Tso Ngon in Amdo province) needed a full month to translate his Tibetan prose into Chinese. Officers searched his home, carted away computers, handwritten notes and copies of the book,whilst Tragyal stood by silently.

"He was perfectly serene in front of the policemen, and this somehow calmed my fears," his wife wrote in an e-mail.

"I am naturally terrified at the thought that once this essay has been made public, I will eventually have to endure the hot hells and cold hells on earth," the New York Times quoted him as saying. "I may lose my head because of my mouth, but this is the path I have chosen, so the responsibility is mine."