Contact November 2013 by Lha Charitable Trust

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

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A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information Rgd No. HPENG/2013/51798

Monk Dies after Self-immolation On November 11, Tsering Gyal, a 20 year old Tibetan monk from the Akyong Monastery, set himself ablaze at around 6 pm (local time) in Pema County in Golog, Tibet. A source said that Tsering set himself on fire in protest against the Chinese government and its hardline policies. Chinese police on street patrol doused the fire and rushed Tsering to the local hospital where he was kept under strict police surveillance. Tsering Gyal succumbed to his burn injuries later at around 10 pm (local time) as he was being moved to a bigger hospital in Xiling city. In a note left by Tsering he said, “Today, I burned myself for the reunion of Tibetans. My only hope is the unity among Tibetans and the preservation of the Tibetan language and tradition. If we do that, all the Tibetans will be reunited.” At midnight, Tsering’s body was taken to Akyong Monastery where over 200 monks from Akyong, Peyag and Gomang monasteries performed the last rituals for the deceased. A large number of armed forces have been deployed in Pema County and are monitoring people’s movements. Seven Tibetans, including three monks, were arrested on suspicion of involvement in the self-immolation. Their names and details are unavailable due to the security clampdown. Tsering’s parents were Sherphun and Rindon, he was one of eight children.

Volume: XV Issue: 11

30 November 2013

Spanish Court Issues Arrest Warrants for Retired Chinese Officials by Sean Fitzpatrick A Spanish court has issued arrest warrants for five retired Chinese officials, including former President

Court), calls the five for questioning for alleged crimes against humanity. The court’s decision follows a complaint lodged against seven Chinese officials by Spanish NGO Comite de Apoyo al Tibet in 2005. The group claims that the administrators were complicit in acts of genocide committed against the Tibetan people by the Chinese government. The five face detainment when travelling through any country which has signed The former Chinese officials for whom the Spanish Court issued arrest warrants an extradition treaty with Photo: VOA Spain, and their foreign bank and Party leader Jiang Zemin. The accounts could be frozen. ruling, made on November 18 by Chinese foreign ministry Spain’s Audiencia Nacional (National spokeswoman, Hong Lei, expressed Continued on page 7

China Attempts to Quash the Dalai Lama’s Voice in Tibet by Tashan Mehta China’s ruling Communist Party hopes to stamp out the Dalai Lama’s voice in Tibet by increasing control on media and information channels within the country. In an editorial for the Party’s journal Quishi, Chen Quanguo, a top official, called the Dalai Lama “a wolf in sheep’s clothing” and accused him of using violent methods to establish an autonomous Tibet. In order to “strike hard against the reactionary propaganda of the splittists from entering Tibet”, Quanguo suggested a higher monitoring of online content, confiscation of illegal satellite dishes and greater measures to ensure that all telephones are registered

in the user’s real name. China has also accused the Dalai Lama, an unflinching advocate of peaceful talks and the middle path, of

Party Secretary Chen Quanguo visits a “convenience police-post” in Lhasa, 2012. Photo: China Tibet News

causing border issues between China and India. A White Paper, issued when Continued on page 4

about lha & contact

Lha Charitable Trust

Institute for Social Work & Education Mission Statement:

Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others.

Background:

Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit organisation based in Dharamshala, India. It is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training,

health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.org

Become a Sponsor for Lha’s Soup Kitchen

On 6 July 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamshala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. Forty to fifty needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of 15 rupees per person, per meal. Meals are completely free for those who cannot afford to pay. The kitchen’s primary objective is to provide refugees with low-cost and nutritious meals while educating them about healthy eating and living. The kitchen will also serve as a space where refugees can receive formal training for the service and restaurant industry.

Acknowledgement

Can you Donate to Lha?

Contact, a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Government of India. The registration number is HPENG/2013/51798. Recognised by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 14 years. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamshala area and in Delhi, and various diplomatic missions to India. Copies are also send to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India. Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail! Guidelines for submission: Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 20th of each month. Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material via email to editor@contactmagazine.net

Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, and language resources, computer Please Note: and medical supplies, as well as any The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the other useful items.

This Issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Monetary donations are extremely Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind helpful and are greatly appreciated, contribution has made this large or small. publication possible.

authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work. All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@ contactmagazine.net

We thank TFD for supporting Contact publication.

Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops.

Contact

Please contact the office: office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992

NOVEMBER 2013

about lha & contact

Dharma-based Tibetan Language Course

24th March-May 16th 2014 Taught by Gavin Kilty

(Full time Tibetan translator, trained language teacher) Organised by Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo Translation Program Cost US$1000

• A Tibetan course for beginners focused on the aims of reading Dharma texts, listening to teachings and speaking with Tibetan teachers. • 2 ½ hours classroom work on colloquial and reading. • 2 hour practice sessions with Tibetan conversation partners. • A basic ability to read and pronounce, however badly, the written text is a prerequisite for attending the course.

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Lha Completes 9th Clean Water Project On November 27, Lha Charitable Trust installed its 9th water filtration system at the Central School for Tibetans (CST) in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, at the request of the Department of Health, Central Tibetan Administration. This project was made possible through a generous donation from Mr Luke Ding and his sister Ms Mary Ding. The reverse osmosis (RO) purification system, one of the most technologically advanced in the area, includes a 500 litre capacity stainless steel tank that can provide more than 100 litres of clean and safe drinking water per hour to students and staff on the premises. The water can also be used for cooking and washing vegatables to ensure clean and healthy meals at the school.

The CST Dalhousie was founded in 1963 and it is the third oldest Tibetan school in India.There are currently 207 students who live at CST Dalhousie

and 40 staff members, in addition to 20 local Indian students who take part in day-schooling. We are happy to share that nearly 300 people will now have access to clean water. We hope to see a decrease in the number of students getting ill fromwater-borne diseases.

Lha Traveler Services & Volunteer Opportunities

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Long- or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha • English conversation Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm • English, French, and Chinese teachers & tutors • Computer teachers • Web designers and IT professionals • Contributing writers • Environmental professionals • Medical & healthcare professionals • Fundraisers & grant writers • Project professionals • Chefs & cooks • Human rights & legal professionals • Personal assistant (PA) • And much more! Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organisation. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. Contact

Classes and Services

TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS Learn more about the Tibetan people, culture, and Buddhism by learning the Tibetan language! Beginner and intermediate class levels with qualified teachers for individuals and small groups. TIBETAN COOKING CLASS Individuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread with a qualified teacher. TIBETAN ARTS CLASS Learn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting, drawing, and how to use colour with a qualified artist. For individuals and small groups. TIBETAN HOME-STAY Lha arranges home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style and a chance to connect and learn about each others’ cultures.

RECEPTION & ORIENTATION Our services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamshala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India There is a discount for people travelling together. *All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha community social work projects. For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P. (Mon-Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm & 1:00-5:00pm) office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992 www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net www.tibetnature.net NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

His Holiness Visits Japan by Jigme Thinley His Holiness the Dalai Lama flew to Japan on November 15 for a ten day visit. During his stay, he was able to interact with Japanese people from many walks of life, from both young and older generations. Everywhere he went, he was received with respect and smiling faces. The Tibetan spiritual leader was invited to speak to the All Party Parliamentary Group where he was met by the chair of the group, Eriko Yamatani, and Senior Parliamentarian Takeo Hiranuma. During a public speech at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Hall he told the 2,500 people who had gathered to see him that “We’re all part of the great human family, if we paid more serious attention to the oneness of humanity, there’d be less room for conflict between us.” During one of his interviews, Nobutaka Murao of News Zero asked His Holiness his opinion about the new Chinese leaders. His Holiness said that Xi Jinping, the current President, may be more open minded and he seems to be determined to deal with corruption.

He also said that harmony is based on trust, and that using force creates fear. Fear and trust cannot go together and to build a communist society we must build trust. Ms Yoshiko Sakurai, a prominent Japanese news correspondent, enquired about the reports that the Spanish National Court has ordered the arrest

His Holiness the Dalai Lama waves to well-wishers on his arrival in Japan Photo: Office of Tibet, Japan

of past Chinese leaders for their actions towards Tibet. His Holiness said it was complicated and said that these leaders grew up under a totalitarian system which leaves little room to exercise personal discretion. They were cut off from the outside world and in most cases cut off from reality. Ms Sakurai

expressed her hopes that things will work out for the Tibetan people and His Holiness responded “The Tibetan spirit is becoming stronger and will long remain so, even though the situation now is so harsh. Meanwhile, China will change. Religion…is related to emotions and human feelings. The Chinese Buddhist population…is now 400 million... I think Buddhism will survive.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama spoke to students at Kyoto Seita University on November 23, followed by a question and answer session. On his last day, the Dalai Lama met a group of 300 Buddhists from Korea, saying “the principal practices of love, compassion, patience, contentment and self-discipline remain relevant even today in the 21st century.” He then met members of the Tibetan community in Japan, telling them “Today, there are 400 million Buddhists in China, many of them intellectuals who are interested in the Tibetan Buddhism and culture that is our treasure. Some of them come to see me in India, many of them in tears.”

China Attempts to Quash the Dalai Lama’s Voice in Tibet

Continued from page 1

the Indian Prime Minister recently landed in Beijing for a three-day visit, wrote that the Dalai Lama’s presence

Chinese authorities dismantled satellite dishes to disable foreign news broadcasts in Labrang, Tibet, earlier this year. Photo: VOA

in India was one of the main issues of contention between the two countries. The paper also repeated China’s Contact

stand on the Dalai Lama’s request for autonomy, stating that greater autonomy is synonymous with freedom. A month back the Global Times, a major Chinese newspaper, expressed a similar rejection of the spiritual leader’s middle path. “The ‘Greater Tibet’ with ‘high-level autonomy’, which has been dreamed about by the Dalai Lama, is actually without the Chinese military presence and diplomatic control of the central government”, the article writes. “Then how can China exercise its ‘indisputable’ sovereignty over Tibet?” Such deeply preventive measures and unyielding stances have worried the world, as well as the Central Tibetan Administration. The White Paper issued during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit claims that 94% of adult Tibetans have voted for “local leaders”, 4

and suggests that this is support for the Chinese government as opposed to the Dalai Lama. Yet thousands of Tibetans consistently put themselves in great personal danger in order to have pictures of the Dalai Lama in their homes and to listen to, and often attend, his teachings. “Such counter-productive measures by the Chinese government to stifle the free flow of information in Tibet will only further exacerbate the resentment of Tibetans inside Tibet” said Kalon (Minister) Dicki Chhoyang of the Department of Information and International Relations for the Central Tibetan Administration. China has recently sought to defend its human rights record in light of the seat it has just won on the UN Human Rights Council, a decision that was heavily protested. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

Spiralling Unrest in Driru by Tashan Mehta The situation in Driru in Tibet has spiralled, with protests rising and more armed forces pouring in. Since the arrests last month, the Chinese authorities have arrested 17 more Tibetans. No reasons were given for their arrests, sources say, and the 17 were picked up in separate groups in Gonshul Village and Tenkhar Village. Of these, 13 have been released after being asked to pay fines for unknown offences, while the others - two of them women - remain under detention, with one reportedly beaten in custody. Earlier this month, another 15 Tibetans were detained for protesting against the arrest of writer Tsuiltim Gyaltsen and his friend Yougyal. Villagers had submitted a written appeal after being told they should present their protest in writing, sources told the RFA, but received no response to that, nor to an appeal to a Chinese work team. In frustration, Sarkyi, 49, Tsophen, 47, and Yangki, 25, attempted

to demand explanations. They were arrested, along with a group of young Tibetans who had gathered outside the township. Many of them were subject to beatings. In a separate incident, a 32 year-old Tibetan woman named Thinlay Palmo was arrested on November 12 for unknown offences. Driru authorities have officially banned Tibetans from petitioning in large groups: a petition of more than five people is considered “a political error”. Armed forces have been increased in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. More than 80 armed policemen are closely watching the 170 families living in Shakchu village in Driru; local Tibetans are required to produce their public benefit access card, and their government issued identity card in order to leave the village for daily chores. Three Tibetans were arrested for allegedly putting up “freedom posters”. Reporters without Borders has condemned the arrests in Driru and

asked for the international community to back them up. “Instead of trying to turn Tibet into an information black hole, the Chinese authorities must put an immediate stop to these arbitrary arrests and release those detained without delay....there can be no justification for remaining silent in the face of these flagrant violations of freedom of information, not even the ‘respect for sovereignty’ that the Chinese government repeatedly cites in response to criticism of its repressive and Thinlay Palmo discriminatory policies towards Tibetans.” The conflict began in October when the people of Mowa village refused to fly the Chinese flag from their rooftops, a space traditionally reserved for sacred flags. In protest, they threw the Chinese flags into a nearby river.

Tibetan MPs Raise Awareness in Europe by Alex Evan Goldberg A delegation of Tibetan Parliament members led by Speaker Penpa Tsering has been on an extended tour of Europe throughout November. They met EU officials and advocates for Tibet to help spread awareness about the state of Chinese policy-making. In every country they also met representatives of the various Tibet support groups and members of the Tibetan communities living there. On November 4 in Brussels they met officials from the EU Committee of Regions. They also attended a meeting of the 98th Tibetan Intergroup which was founded in 1989 by Monsiuer Michel Herva, a former French Parliament member. The Tibetan Intergroup’s stated primary goal is to “promote broader international recognition of the Tibetan problem” within the European Parliament. The delegation met members of both the European Economic and Social Contact

Committee, as well as members of the European External Action Service and their East Asia director, Mr Gerhard Sabathil. These two organisations serve as consultants in the development of

The Tibetan Parliamentary delegation with EU Committee members in Brussels Photo: Office of Tibet/CTA

the EU’s Economic and Diplomatic policy abroad. They also met representatives from the Flemish and Belgian parliaments. In France, from November 7, the delegation met members of the Parliamentary Group for Tibet and briefed French MPs about the efforts

made by the Tibetan leadership in exile to resolve the issue of Tibet through dialogue, and discussed ways to end the sufferings of Tibetans inside Tibet. The French MPs assured the delegates of their continued support for the Tibetan cause. Terming the Tibet issue an “international issue”, they said every nation of the world has a moral responsibility to stand up for Tibet. The delegation arrived in Germany on November 13 where they met members of the German Parliamentary Group for Tibet who expressed indignation at the repressive policies of the Chinese Government in Tibet. They also met Chinese citizens from mainland China and explained the current situation prevailing inside Tibet. In the United Kingdom the delegation met Mr John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons, as well as several other members of the British Parliament. They later met staff members from the China desk of the Foreign Office. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

The Campaign Continues in USA and Italy by Christopher Healey Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay has recently returned from visiting government officials in both the United States and Italy. Sikyong arrived in New York on November 11 and met US Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and, later, Congressman Ed Royce who is Chairman of the House Foreign Relations Committee. In New York he also met senior editorial b o a r d Sikyong with US Senate members Majority Leader Harry Reid of The Photo: Tibet.net Wall Street Journal, former Senator Joe Lieberman and Nicholas Kristoff, the Pulitzer Prize winner columnist for The New York

Times. Kristoff later tweeted, “Great chat today with Lobsang Sangay, Tibetan leader, about escalating repression in Tibet. Sad to see the oppression there.” On Nov 17, Sangay Sikyong in Italy with Bruno addressed a Doringatti, President of gathering of Trento Provincial Council over 1,000 Photo: Tibet.net Tibetan residents from New York and New Jersey at the Phunstok Deshi Tibetan-American Cultural Hall where he spoke about the Middle Way approach, immigration, his administration’s CAN (Consolidation, Action and Negotiations/dialogue) strategy and the current situation in the Kashag. During the talk the actor Richard Gere appeared on stage to reiterate his continued support for the

Tibetan cause. Sikyong later gave interviews on Voice of America and Radio Free Asia, and met Senator John McCain, and Congressman Sensenbrenner and his senior staff members. In Italy Dr Sangay met the President of South Tyrol, Luis Durnwalder, who announced that he was “very happy with his 25 year association w i t h Tibetans.” Sikyong thanked the Italian Republic Sikyong with US for their Senator John McCain collaboration Photo: Tibet.net in working to resolve the issues in Tibet “through non-violence and dialogue based upon the Middle Way Approach.”

China Wins a Seat on the Human Rights Council In response to China’s bid, Tibetans by Sarah E Gittleman China has again been awarded one of and foreign supporters alike took to the fourteen open seats in the 47-seat protest. In Dharamshala and elsewhere, Geneva-based Human Rights Council Tibetan groups held campaigns to urge despite its failure to comply with UN member states to demonstrate a international standards put forward by commitment to international human the United Nations. rights by voting “No” to China’s bid As a member of the council, China for re-election to the UN council. will continue to have a say as to what issues will be addressed by adopting resolutions when it chooses to do so. Because it is unlikely that China will adopt any resolution regarding Tibet, any effort to shine a light upon ongoing human rights abuses will face great resistance. However, though China’s role on the council poses a challenge, it is still possible for a hard-working majority to achieve results, according Various rights groups in Dharamshala protest to Peggy Hicks of Human Rights against China winning a seat in the UNHRC Watch, an advocacy group based in Photo: TPI New York City. Without the ability to veto, China cannot single-handedly Together, the Tibetan Youth Congress, prevent resolutions regarding human Tibetan Women’s Association, Gu-ChuSum Movement of Tibet, National rights in Tibet. Contact

Democratic Party of Tibet and Students for a Free Tibet-India staged a protest in Dharamshala as part of a global campaign. Efforts were bolstered by another organisation, Avaaz, an online advocacy group. In just one week, Avaaz helped to attract over one million people to sign a petition against China’s bid. Additionally, the group participated in extensive lobbying and held a demonstration in front of the UN headquarters in New York. Elsewhere, in Geneva, pro-Tibet activists hung a banner stating “China fails human rights”. Like China, the election of Algeria, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam to the council has drawn criticism globally. These countries regularly vote against UN initiatives to protect the rights of others, and have themselves been in violation. Since 2000, these five countries have repeatedly refused to allow visits by UN inspectors to check alleged abuses. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

China’s White Paper on Tibet Gives Little Hope for Improvement by Mary Trewartha China has issued a White Paper entitled Development and Progress of Tibet which boasts of Tibet’s “comprehensive development and rapid progress over the past 60-plus years” and makes it clear that there will be no change in its hard line policies on Tibet: “only by adhering to the leadership of the CPC (Communist Party of China)...can Tibetans become and remain the masters of their own affairs...In the future, too, this path will remain essential to Tibet’s development”. The official Chinese Xinhua news agency reported that Tibet under Chinese rule is “developing economically, making progress politically, has a flourishing culture, a harmonious society and a good environment; its people are happy and healthy.” The White Paper describes Tibet before Chinese occupation as “dark and backward as medieval Europe” and rejected criticism, saying that “any fair-minded person would be filled with amazement” at the advancements China has bought to Tibet. It repeated China’s assertion that the Dalai Lama is intent on pushing for Tibet’s independence to sabotage its development and stability. The Tibetan Government-in-Exile (CTA) responded with the statement

“The ultimate judge of China’s rule in Tibet should be the Tibetan people.... today large parts of Tibet are still under martial law like control. The alarming escalation in desperate forms of RFA interviews Sikyong protest, Photo: RFA including self-immolations, in Tibetan areas, is a clear judgment made by the Tibetan people of China’s sixty years rule of Tibet.” The CTA also points out that “Interestingly, no other minorities in China have been the object of so many white papers. In light of growing public awareness and sympathy for the Tibetan cause, China is constantly challenged to justify the legitimacy of its presence in Tibet.” The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has said that the White Paper distorts the current reality of Tibet, as well as Tibet’s history, by denying its distinct identity as a nation and civilisation having a cultural influence beyond its Himalayan borders. The Gu-Chu-Sum Movement for Tibet also condemned the White Paper. Passang Tsering, the newlyelected President of the organisation

said, “China tries to deceive the world by portraying Tibet as a politically stable society and its people living happily, but in reality, there are no political rights in Tibet, and Tibetans are subjected to torture...China’s policy is unfair and unequal.” He added that the Chinese government is the real cause of social instability in Tibet. In an interview for Radio Free Asia in the USA, Tibetan exile political leader Lobsang Sangay called on Chinese leaders to change their “hardline” policies in Tibet, urging dialogue as the only way forward to resolve problems. “Proposals by Tibet’s exile government that Beijing

Gu-Chu-Sum executive members during the press conference Photo: Phayul

allow ‘genuine’ autonomy for Tibetans do not pose a challenge to rule by the Communist Party” said Sangay, “Tibetans should be allowed control of all aspects of their lives, including religion, culture, language, and the environment”.

Spanish Court Issues Arrest Warrants for Retired Chinese Officials

Continued from page 1

concern over the ruling and its effect on the countries’ diplomatic relationship. “We urge Spain to face up to China’s solemn position, change the wrong decision, repair the severe damage, and refrain from sending wrong signals to the Tibetan-independence forces and hurting China-Spain relations,” Hong said. The Spanish Ambassador was called to Beijing on November 21 to discuss the action with the Chinese Contact

Government. Spanish diplomatic sources report that China shared it’s “deep unease” over the court proceedings during the meeting. The case is being tried under a legal principle known as universal jurisdiction. This principle allows the court to try foreign nationals for crimes against humanity committed outside of its usual jurisdictional boundaries. The late Chilean dictator General

Pinochet was tried under this law, also in Spain, leading to his arrest in London in 1998. In a separate ruling, former President and Party Secretary Hu Jin Tao has also been indicted for his role in genocide and inhuman acts against the Tibetan people. The court ordered that the retired leader be sent questions about his former policies, but has not yet called for his arrest. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

Himalayan Festival Highlights Tibetan Culture by Annapurna Mellor Addressing the audience the Sikyong Himachal Pradesh,”. On November 23 Shimla hosted the said, “We express our sincere and Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Himalayan Festival, a day-long event heartfelt gratitude to the government who inaugurated the festival, has been organised by the Himachal Tourism and people of Himachal Pradesh for a long-term supporter of the Tibetan Department of the Government of their long-standing support to the people. In his address he commented India, and the Department of Home Tibetan people.” He went on to say on the unique and beautiful religion of the Central Tibetan and culture of the Administration (CTA). Tibetans, and said “It The festival was aimed is our responsibility to at promoting cultural take care of Tibetans understanding between living in exile and the different peoples especially ensure that living in the Himalayan Tibetan children get region, and Tibetan good education. We culture was highlighted hope and pray to God throughout the day. that Tibetans in exile will return to their Tibetan stalls homeland with dignity included an exhibition of the history of within my lifetime.” He also expressed Tibet, screenings of films about the Dalai his happiness that in the present age Lama, a sand mandala of modernisation presentation by the Dorjee Drak Monastry From top left (clock-wise): Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh inaugurating the the people of the Himalayan Festival, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay adressing the Himalayan regions in Shimla, Tibetan audience, and various traditional performances cuisines by Hotel have retained their Photo: DIIR/CTA cultures and traditions. Tibet, and folk songs The aim of the festival was to and performances from the Tibetan “His Holiness the Dalai Lama would Institute of Performing Arts. be very happy for the joint effort of promote friendship and dialogue During the festival, Sikyong Dr the government of Himachal Pradesh between the people living in the Lobsang Sangay, the Tibetan de facto and CTA in organising the Himalayan Himalayan region. Alongside Tibet, Prime Minister, expressed his gratitude Festival. It will send a message to the the cultures of Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim, to the state of Himachal Pradesh for international community to visit the Ladakh and Kangra (Himachal, India) their support of the Tibetan People. beautiful, green and peaceful state of were also represented.

Tibetans Protest Against Chinese Land Grab by Palden Choedon Sixteen elderly Tibetans have been evicted from a building construction site where they were holding a monthlong sit-in protest in Trinken village, which is in Ngaba county in the Sichuan Province, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has reported. Police threatened the protesters with imprisonment and said that they will be held responsible for the fact that there has been a halt to the construction work. The Tibetans were protesting against a Chinese land grab which happened nearly 30 years ago. The Contact

A group of 16 elderly Tibetans spent over a month in similar tents to these during their protest against land grabbing by Chinese authorities in Ngaba, Tibet. Photo: TCHRD 8

16 elderly people represented 16 families in the village where 40mu (one mu equals 67 square meters) of their farmland was seized by the Chinese authorities in 1986 to build a cattle slaughterhouse and cold storage facility. The families were promised jobs and financial compensation for their land by the local Chinese government but these promises have not been fulfilled. The villagers have continually petitioned for compensation. Three days after submitting their latest petition, they erected tents and staged their sit-in. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

Fire Destroys Old Tibetan Monastery by Wendhe Choetsoe The main prayer hall of the the Ganden Thubchen Choekorling Monastery in Lithang County, Kardze prefecture in Tibet, caught fire on the night of November 16 and suffered massive damage. Xinhua, the state news agency, reported that a short circuit caused the fire. Monks and local residents tried to put out the fire but were unsuccessful.

The main prayer hall following the fire Photo: RFA

Around 200 monks rushed from the adjacent room to rescue the abbot who was on the third floor of the building. “Two monks fainted but there were no casualties reported. The abbot and some precious artefacts from the hall

were saved,” a source with contacts in the area told Contact Magazine. However, the fire destroyed a large number of Buddhist scriptures and statues. Known as the birthplace of the seventh and the tenth Dalai Lamas, this 433 year old monastery survived extensive damage during the Cultural Revolution. The fire has now reduced the main prayer hall to rubble. Three fire brigade vans reached the site eventually. The fire was extinguished at around 4 am the next day and was prevented from reaching the nearby buildings, although smoke could still be seen a couple of days later. Contradictory to the Xinhua report, no other help came from the government except for these vans, according to Tibetan sources who have contacts in Lithang. Following the tragedy, donations for the reconstruction of the building were received from Lithang Kyabgon Palden Dorjechang (3 million yuan) and Lithang Shakpa Tulku Khedrub Gelek Jampal Gyatso (10 million yuan), while an anonymous monk promised 500,000 yuan. The destruction of the historic monastery left many Tibetans

grief-stricken. The Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile sent their condolences to the Tibetans in Lithang

A damaged statue in the main prayer hall of the monastery Photo: RFA

and expressed deep sadness at the damage done to the monastery. Ganden Thubchen Choekorling Monastery, popularly known as Lithang Monastery, was built by the third Dalai Lama in the 16th century. It is one of the most famous and oldest monasteries in the Kham province of Tibet.

Continuing Spotlight on Mining Activities in Zatoe by Vanshika Tripathi Chinese authorities have reprimanded three Tibetan officials, Khetsa Soetop, Gyaltsen and Budhag, and removed them from their posts. They are accused of “separatist activities” for their participation in a protest against mining which is taking place in Zatoe county, and which local Tibetans say is damaging the environment. Additionally, Radio Free Asia has reported that the Central Government sent a group of reporters and researchers to Zatoe county in order to look into the recent accounts of unlawful mining taking place there, and that this group was then misled by Chinese authorities. Contact

Tibetans protesting against mining in Zatoe in August Photo: RFA

A Tibetan exile named Kunchok Dhondub told Radio Free Asia “reporters...were not taken to places

where Chinese miners are actually extracting minerals...they were taken to other sites in an attempt to convince them that mining is not harming the local environment.” He added, “Reporters never met the local Tibetans who had protested [against] Chinese mining in their area.” The Central Government had sent the group of reporters to investigate activities in the area where Tibetans were protesting against mining activities. Last August. protesters there were confronted by armed Chinese security guards, one man was shot dead and many others subjected to harsh treatment and injury following the confrontation. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

Tibetan Headlines Nov 29: Sacred Stones Dispute Eight Tibetans, including six monks, have been detained by Chinese authorities in Palyul County following a tipoff that the Tibetans were planning a protest. Reports said that two local officials had stolen a truck full of sacred stones from a pilgrimage site and some stones had been sold. Appeals to return the stones were ignored. The monastery has been put under surveillance. Nov 28: Award Revoked The World Health Organisation (WHO) has overturned its previous decision to grant the Kochon Award for contributions to the fight against tubercolosis to the Tibetan Delek Hospital in Dharamshala after WHO director general Margaret Chan disapproved of the choice. China also opposed this selection. Nov 26: “Release Rinpoche” Followers and students of Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche launched a DVD and appealed for the immediate release of the highly revered Lama who is currently serving a life sentence in a Chinese prison. Relatives say that his health has deteriorated over the last 11 years in prison.

platform and gather support for Tibet’s ongoing non-violent resistance against the Chinese policies.” Nov 17: “Spoiling Tibet” Gabriel Lafitte, an Australian researcher, launched his latest book Spoiling Tibet: China and Resource Nationalism on the Roof of the World in Mcloed Ganj, Dharamshala. He gave a presentation on mining and commercial tourism in Tibet during the book launch. Nov 16: Students Help An unattended burning stove in a senior citizens home at the Swiss Camp, Upper TCV School, caused a massive fire. Two gas cylinders exploded destroying two houses, but no casualties were reported. School children from the boys’ hostel rushed to the scene with water buckets and sand and extinguished the fire. Nov 15: Activist Breaks Fast Sherab Tsedor, a lone Tibetan activist protesting against human rights violations in Tibet, broke his fast after 22 days when Kalon Gyari Dolma and various Tibet support groups made a strong appeal in the light of his deteriorating health.

Nov 23: Writer Sentenced A Chinese court in Ngaba sentenced a Tibetan monk from Jonang Monastery in Zamthang County last month. Hortsang Tamdrin, a writer and a social activist, was sentenced to over four years for “calling for Tibet’s independence and for promoting special recognition for self-immolators”.

Nov 14: Appeal for Relief Tibetan farmers in Phuntsokling Tibetan Settlement in Odisha, India, devastated by cyclone Phailin last month, pleaded for help in an appeal video. The estimated loss caused by the calamity is 20 million Indian rupees.

Nov 21: Documentary Launch The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy based in Dharamshala, launched a new documentary film entitled A Sacrifice, based on the life of Lhamo Kyab, a former political prisoner. They hope that the documentary will “take the Tibetan issue onto an international

Nov 8: New Book on Tibet His Holiness the Karmapa has published a book entitled Tibet: Perspectives and Prospects in New Delhi. Ambassador Prabhat Shukla said, “[It] is compiled with keeping two main factors in mind. First, the status of Tibet which plays an important factor in India’s security, and

Contact

secondly, as widely recognised, Tibet is the water tower of Asia.” Nov 8: Luxury Hotel in Lhasa Tibetans and supporters around the world staged demonstrations against the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) demanding that the company withdraw its plan to open a luxury hotel in Lhasa, Tibet. Raising the slogan “Occupation is No Vacation”, protesters complained that IHG failed to consult any Tibet groups before signing the deal. Nov 6: Tibetan National Anthem There was surprise when China’s state controlled television and radio in Tibet launched a music video of the Tibetan national anthem on its new website. The anthem is sung by Tibetans in exile, but is banned in Tibet. Nov 5: Happy 74th Birthday! The Sambota Peton school in Dharamshala celebrated Professor Samdhong Rinpoche’s 74th birthday.

The school’s founder and former Kalon Tripa, Samdhong Rinpoche always emphasised the importance of educating young Tibetans in Tibetan schools. Nov 2: Monk Sentenced Tseyang, a 33 year-old differently abled Tibetan monk from Pema County in Golog, has been sentenced to seven years by Chinese authorities for his involvement in anti-government protests in Barkham, Kardze and Ngaba. Nov 1: Bagro’s Latest Book Ven Bagdro, a former political prisoner from Tibet, has released a new book Tibetan Spirit Cannot be Crushed. In the book Bagdro unfolds Tibet’s history through pictures. NOVEMBER 2013

news & issues

International Headlines Nov 26: Thai Protests Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters are marching for a second day in the Thai capital Bangkok. The protests broke out over three weeks ago and were triggered by a controversial political amnesty bill which, despite failing to pass in the Senate, has reignited simmering political divisions in the country. Nov 25: Secret Meetings An historic agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme was made possible by months of unprecedented secret meetings between the US and Iran. The meetings ran parallel to official negotiations and helped pave the way for the signing of the interim Geneva deal. Under the deal, in exchange for partial relief from sanctions, Iran accepted strict constraints on its nuclear program for the first time in a decade. Nov 23: Enslaved for 30 Years Three women have been rescued from a house in London after being held as slaves for 30 years. The women, who were subject to physical and emotional abuse, had only limited access to the outside world. A couple, both aged 67, has been arrested. Nov 19: Voting for Stability Nepal votes to elect a new assembly whose task will be to write a constitution. The 601-member assembly will act as a parliament and establish a government until a charter is ready. As the polls opened a crude bomb exploded in Kathmandu injuring three people, including a child, and another five hoax bombs were recovered. Maoist hardliners have called for a boycott of the election. Nov 18: Too Much Indian Ten entertainment television channels in Pakistan have been fined Rs 10 million Contact

for airing excessive Indian and foreign content. The News reported that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority imposed the fine on the channels and issued warning letters. Private television channels in Pakistan are authorised to air only 10 percent foreign, including Indian, content. Nov 15: Worldwide Arrests Police have arrested 348 people worldwide, including teachers, coaches, doctors and nurses, on child pornography charges following a Canadian-led investigation. The arrests came after a three-year investigation by some 30 police forces from around the world that led to the rescue of 386 children. Nov 14: New WTC Tower The first World Trade Center tower since the 9/11 terrorist attacks has opened after 12 years. “This isn’t just a building,” Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer said. “It’s a symbol of our rebirth. It speaks to our promise to never forget.” Nov 10: Summit Boycott Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will not be attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Sri Lanka. The meeting has been marred by accusations that Colombo has failed to resolve the issue of war crimes against minority Tamils. Sri Lanka claims the Indian Prime Minister’s decision was taken for internal political reasons. Nov 9: Deadly Typhoon Typhoon Haiyan has left devastation after it swept through the central Philippines destroying almost everything in its path. Authorities have estimated that nearly 10,000 people may have died. The UN says that more than 600,000 people in the country were displaced by the storm, leaving many

survivors begging for help and food, water and medicine. Nov 6: Blasts at Chinese HQ A series of small blasts outside the headquarters of the ruling Communist Party in China has killed at least one person. The bombs, which are believed to be homemade, have injured eight people. No immediate explanation has been given for the blasts, which happened at 7:40 am (local time). Nov 3: Exodus Disaster Around fifty members of the Muslim minority in Myanmar are missing after a boat sank off the coast. The Rohingya Muslims have been leaving Myanmar in droves since ethnic clashes erupted during the last year. They are attempting to reach nearby countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. An agency in Geneva said that around 24,000 Rohingya are thought to have left by boat this year. Nov 2: Genocide on Trial Two of the most senior surviving members of the Khmer Rouge, which terrorised Cambodia for years, have appeared in court and are pleading “not guilty”. Nuon Chea and Khieu Samphan are accused of planning the deaths of two million Cambodians. Both accept “moral responsibility” for the crimes but say they did not order the Khmer Rouge cadres to kill. Nov 1: Migrants Die of Thirst 92 migrants, most of them women and children, have been found dead in northern Niger after their vehicles broke down while attempting to cross the Sahara Desert. Officials say about

twenty people survived the ordeal. The victims were all from Niger but their final destination was unclear. NOVEMBER 2013

around town

Charities and Organisations

Central Tibetan Administration

The CTA serves in Dharamshala as the government in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.net LOCATION: Dharamshala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-222218 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pm EMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)

OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organises his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamshala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organisation publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:president@tibetanyouthcongress.org, tyc@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association

The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: tibwomen@gmail.com

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.in LOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Contact

Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang) Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-TseeKhang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 EMAIL: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Tibetan Library (LTWA) (Centre for Tibetan Studies)

The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong Dharamshala - 176215 PHONE: 98822-55047 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:005:00pm. Closed 2nd and 4th Sat. every month EMAIL: office@ltwa.net

Delek Hospital

Delek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital) LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamshala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily EMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Sambhota Tibetan Schools Society

The society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organisation. WEB: www.sambhota.org LOCATION: Session Road, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stsa1999@yahoo.co.in

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organisation that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org

LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-220589

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Narthang Building Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-223363 EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)

Lha, a Tibetan grassroots ngo based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2) WEB:www.lhasocialwork.org LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 01892-220992 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

(Ex Political Prisoners Association) Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Volunteer opportunities available. WEB: www. tong-len.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215 PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Tibet Charity

Tibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.in LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in, tibccharity@gmail. com

NOVEMBER 2013

around town

Charities and Organisations

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)

Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The insitute imparts comprehensive training and lesson on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera. TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am). WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod Ganj Dharamshala-176219 PHONE: 01892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

KUNPHEN Centre for Substance Dependence HIV/AIDS&HRD

KUNPHEN is an Open door Policy drop in Centre providing support, advice, advocacy, counseling, group and alternative healing therapies to those in the Tibetan community suffering from addiction issues. Volunteers needed to carry out action plans. WEB: www.kunphen.org LOCATION: Near Delek Clinic, Bagsunag road, P.O Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219 PHONE: 01892-220565 / 985716806 EMAIL: kunphen@mail.com

Tibetan Centre Resolution (TCCR)

for

Conflict

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a nonprofit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole. They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.org LOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-226627 EMAIL: tccroffice@yahoo.com

Rogpa Baby Care Centre

The Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing. WEB: www.tibetrogpa.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9816659549 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8am-12pm and 1- 5pm EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Gamru Village School

Gamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living. WEB: www.gamruschool.com LOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215 PHONE: 9816105554

Contact

Clean Upper Dharamshala Project

Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

executive_directoranec@yahoo.com

National Democratic Party of Tibet

The NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a future Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.org LOCATION: Dharamshala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com PHONE: 9882787633

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers. WEB: www.anec.org.in LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com,

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors. WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com

Women’s Team

Volunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender. EMAIL: jitenderje@gmail.com PHONE: 9817105035 / 08894435595

BUS SCHEDULE * Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure. Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840) Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165) *from Dharamshala Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm Manali: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamshala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75) Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235)*from Dharamshala. Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 224903 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS

A private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTA Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, MonSat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. Phone: 222 053,223 381

Police Contact Information Location: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area. Phone: 221 483

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034 Tourism Office: 01892-23107 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

McLeod Ganj Post Office Location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

NOVEMBER 2013

activities and tourist info LANGUAGES

Upcoming Events

MEDITATION

Dec 10: Nobel Peace Prize Day, celebration of the awarding of the Nobel Prize to His Holiness

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

Tibetan Language Class

Tushita Meditation Center

Rita Thakur Hindi Classes

Dec 10: International Human Rights Day Rock concert at TIPA, a campaign to support freedom of speech and expression in Tibet. Dec 25-31: 4th Advanced Tibetan Women’s Leadership Training in Delhi, organised by TWA.

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH Karmapa WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 01892-235307

YOGA & REIKI Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11 HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

MASSAGE Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & Treatment LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga Center

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd. HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PM PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Nature Cure Health Club

Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992

Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

Traditional Thai Massage

LOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com

Contact

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Vipassana Meditation

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01892-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center

LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992 See ad on pg 3. LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with Sunil

LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan Language

LOCATION: The Tibetan Library See Buddhist Philosophy Listing

WEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.php LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling Nunnery PHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502 EMAIL: Yogarishi2001@yahoo.co.in

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

School of Life and Spirituality

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

Meditation and teachers’ training LOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, please all before coming WEB: web: www.devom.org PHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310 EMAIL: dev@devom.org

COOKING Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms. Rita Kapoor LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592 06586

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking Classes

LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10:00am - 4:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947 HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post office HOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken

Location: Esukhia Office,Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Road, Dharamshala Web: www.esukhia.org Phone: 8679502538 / 9882004965 E- mail- contact@esukhia.org

ART & MUSeums Tibet Museum

LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)

WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Kangra Art Museum

LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

Naam Art Gallery

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamshala PHONE: 9816043708

Form Gallery

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis Cafe PHONE: 8894-060602 HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

NOVEMBER 2013

activities & services HEALTH SERVICES

Cycling for Tibet

Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday PHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106 EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma

by Annapurna Mellor Dharamshala welcomed Rinpo Yak to India on Saturday November 30 at the conclusion of his 8,000 km solo

WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the the Club House HOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily PHONE: 8894492837 EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health Clinic

LOCATION: Main Square HOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 941-815-5795 EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-226138 / 223113 EMAIL: info@mentsekhang.org

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 94181-30119 / 97363-33888 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital

LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

Ayuskam Health Care

WEB: www.ayuskama.com LOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod Ganj PHONE: 973-621-1210

Tibetan national flags lined the streets of McLeod Ganj and greeted Yak with traditional silk scarves. Later, a ceremony was held at TCV Day School in his honour. Speaking at the event, Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, thanked Yak for his dedication to the Tibetan cause. In his speech, Yak spoke amount the importance of Tibetan unity around the world. Rinpo Yak, 42, is originally from Amdo Ngaba, one of the most restive areas in Tibet with over 40 cases of self-immolation. Currently, he lives in

Rinpo Yak (centre) is greeted with traditional scarves by exile Tibetans upon his arrival in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala Photo: AP/Ashwini Bhatia

cycling tour. Yak has been cycling through Europe and Asia to spread awareness about the Chinese rule in Tibet. The campaign, which started in March 2013 in Belgium, has taken Yak through 15 countries and along the way he has met over 150 Members of Parliament. Yak has said that he wants to let the world know the true aspirations of those who have selfimmolated in Tibet. Yak reached India by cycling through Nepal. In Kathmandu he met the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the US Ambassador. On Saturday people holding

Speaker Penpa Tsering thanking Yak for his dedication to the Tibetan cause during the ceremony at TCV Day School, McLeod Ganj Photo: Phayul/Kunsang Gashon

the United States. Since the year 2000 he has spread his message across 40 American states. He is due to meet the Dalai Lama soon.

Brazilian Paliamentary Delegation Visits Dharamshala by Vanshika Tripathi On November 4 a delegation of Brazilian Members of Parliament met members of the Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile in Dharamshala. The Brazilian MPs Walter Feldman and Pastor Eurico, who serve as the President and Vice President of the Brazil Tibet Support Group, were informed by Tibetan Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel about the transformation of Tibetan democracy. The Deputy Speaker also emphasised Contact

the ongoing problem of the Chinese Government’s threatening stance against the Tibetan language, culture and religion. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel said that “dialogue is the only solution to solve the Tibet issue”. The meeting ended with the Brazilian MPs expressing their support for Tibet, and they extended a pledge to invite members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile to visit Brazil and meet the Brazilian Parliament there.

The Brazilian Parliamentary delegation with members of the Tibetan Parliament Photo: CTA NOVEMBER 2013

news and issues

Key Meeting Brings About Reforms in China by Sarah E Gittleman The Communist Party of China (CPC) has announced various and wideranging reforms promising social and economic change in years to come. These reforms, said to be part of efforts to improve human rights and

introduced following the meeting earlier this month of the CPC Central Committee’s third Plenum, a key decision-making body, though it may be years, if at all, until all Chinese provinces enact the changes. Details have been sparse and no timetable has been presented, forcing some speculation about how committed the party is to these new reforms. The People’s Republic of China has long been criticised by rights groups for its one-child policy which was introduced in 1979. It was implemented as a means of population control and has resulted in many negative Top Chinese leaders attend the third social consequences and led to a Plenary session of the 18th CPC Central significant population imbalance. Committee in Beijing on November 12. China has also announced its Photo: Xinhuanet.com intention to end its re-education judicial practices, include relaxing its through labour system. Although one-child policy, abolishing the re- the announcement of such reforms education through labour system and may seem promising, “this important reducing the number of crimes for step will only be meaningful if the which the penalty is death. government ensures what comes after The sixty new reforms were it does not institute another system

of detention without trial,” warns Brad Adams of Human Rights Watch. Established in the 1950s to silence political opponents, the camps are used today to imprison undesirables (for example drug addicts and prostitutes), those who complain too loudly about injustices, or people who are members of religious movements banned by the CPC. Estimated to hold as many as 190,000 people, the system of labour camps is, in principle, reserved for small crimes that do not qualify for criminal punishment. Instead, police have long used the system as an expedient tool for suppressing dissent. Another significant reform, if enacted, is China’s promise to lessen the number of crimes subject to capital punishment. Although such figures are not released, human rights groups such as Amnesty International believe that in recent years China has executed more people than have been executed in the whole of the rest of the world.

Annual Winter Debate for Nuns by Palden Choedon Jang Gun Choe, the annual Buddhist winter debate, was held for nuns this year from October 4 at the Dolma Ling Nunnery and Dialect Institute. More than 500 nuns from eight different nunneries, including 200 from Dolma Ling, participated in the event. Kalon Pema Chinjor of the Department of Religion and Culture and Kasur (former Kalon) Rinchen Khando, founder and chair person of Tibetan Nuns Project, were the guests of honour at the opening ceremony. During the address, Kasur Rinchen Khando spoke on the importance of education for Buddhist nuns, and on the first ever nuns’ Geshema examination (the Geshema is the equivalent of a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy) held earlier this year. Kasur spoke of the importance of nuns achieving the Geshema Degree and stressed the need for an in-depth Contact

knowledge of the Tibetan language in order to learn the true meaning of Tibetan Buddhism. She expressed the hope that Tibetan nunneries could become major centres of learning for the Tibetan language. Kalon Pema Chinjor in his opening remark said that “Tibet’s most valuable wealth is Tibetan Buddhism and it is our duty to retain this wealth. Even in the face of oppression, Tibetans inside Tibet have steadfastly upheld our Buddhist traditions. We, in the free world, should take it as an inspiration and work towards learning and understanding the rich knowledge that has been preserved in the Buddhist scriptures.” On the final day of Jang Gun Choe His Holiness the Dalai Lama met the nuns at Tsuklakhang, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala. He advised them that “study is necessary to achieve understanding, and practice is 16

necessary to achieve realisation.” His Holiness said that the Buddha clearly gave equal rights to men and women and he encouraged nuns to embark on the study of Buddhist philosophy. Jang Gun Choe is an annual winter month-long debate between monasteries and nunneries which in

Kalon Pema Chinjor and Kasur Rinchen Khando addressing the nuns Photo: Tibet.net

Tibet is held in the Jang region, west of Lhasa. The first ever Jang Gun Choe for nuns was held in Dharamshala in 1995 and this year marked the 19th winter debate session for nuns. NOVEMBER 2013