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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།
Contact
A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues and Community Information RGD No. HPENG/2013/51798 Volume: XX Issue: 9 OCTOBER 31, 2018
The Meeting of Two Karmapas
“Surveillance State”
by Sarah Gittleman To the surprise of many, Ogyen Trinley Dorje and Trinley Thaye Dorje – both competing claimants to the title of 17th Gyalwang Karmapa – met on October 11 in rural France to establish a personal relationship and to discuss ways that they may begin to “heal divisions” in order to “strengthen and preserve” the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Continued on page 3
by Saule Aitkulova United States Vice President Mike Pence criticised China’s political oppression of ethnic minorities during a speech at the Hudson Institute, a conservative Washington think tank, on October 4. He called China “a surveillance state” and accused it of meddling in American politics. Continued on page 3
Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari
HR in China Under Scrutiny
by Mary Trewartha Tributes are pouring in for Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari who died in San Francisco aged 69 on October 29. He was known as a skilled diplomat in the international arena and an impassioned advocate for the Tibetan people, universal human rights and global democratic reform.
by Anisha Francis Civil rights groups from across the world have begun taking action ahead of China’s third Universal Periodic Review (UPR) which is due to take place in Geneva on November 6. The groups are highlighting the Asian superpower’s continuous criminilisation and intimidation of its human rights defenders, particularly
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ABOUT LHA & CONTACT Contact, a free monthly magazine published by 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. Acknowledged 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 20 years. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the Dharamshala area, Delhi, and various diplomatic missions of India. Copies are also sent to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India and abroad. Please Note: The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and are 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
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Acknowledgement
This issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind contribution has made this publication possible. We thank TFD for supporting the publication of Contact.
Can you Donate to Lha? Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, and language resources, computer and medical supplies, as well as any other useful items. Monetary donations are extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated, large or small. Please contact the office: office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 98823-23455 / 1892-220992 OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES
Continued from page 1
The Meeting of Two Karmapas
The decades-old dispute is the consequence of a disagreement pertaining to the process of recognising the reincarnated 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. While the majority of Tibetans, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama, regard Ogyen Trinley Dorje to be the true bearer of this title, an influential minority believes otherwise. This division had been further exacerbated by the fact that India once suspected Ogyen Trinley Dorje of being a foreign agent acting on behalf of the Peoples’ Republic of China – a fear that has since been mitigated – leading the host nation to regard Trinley Thaye Dorje as the “real” Karmapa. Despite the rivalry previously being said to have reached an impasse, the two Karmapas released a joint statement following their four-day meeting that emphasised healing and urged followers to join them in their efforts to strengthen and preserve the lineage. Deeming it their “duty and responsibility to
bring the lineage together,” this development is also viewed as important to Tibetan Buddhism as a whole since the Karmapa is widely regarded as a potential successor to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as the future face of Tibetan Buddhism. The joint statement, which also expressed belief that the two would continue to “develop a strong connection,” was released simultaneously on both lamas’ official websites, with both signing their names alongside the title of “His Holiness”, as opposed to utilising the specific title of Gyalwang Karmapa. The meeting is also said to have come as a surprise to Indian officials who have been working to negotiate the return of Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who still remains in the United States – purportedly for the purpose of receiving and recovering from medical treatment – after extending his stay last year. Since then, officials have indicated that he has acquired a foreign
passport while abroad which would permit him to travel with greater ease since India has previously restricted his movements both domestically and internationally, citing their concern that he was acting as a foreign agent. It is unclear at present what effect this meeting will have on the timing or likelihood of Ogyen Trinley Dorje’s return, but some view it as indicative of an eventual homecoming. Not only has India offered sufficient land in the Indian capital of New Delhi for the establishment of a new residence that would be larger and more centrally located than his existing monastery outside Dharamshala, but top officials have also promised to allow him to travel more freely both inside and outside the country. Thus, some speculate that the recent meeting between the two Karmapas might actually be an attempt to settle another pressing issue ahead of his return.
“Surveillance State” Continued from page 1
He brought up several facts that showcase Chinese persecution of ethnic groups and commented on the instances of self-immolations in occupied Tibet. Pence said, “Beijing is also cracking down on Buddhism. Over the past decade, more than 150 Tibetan Buddhist monks have lit themselves on fire to protest China’s repression of their beliefs and culture.” The Vice President also mentioned the recent “provisional agreement” signed by Beijing and the Vatican that allows the Chinese government to appoint bishops saying, “A new wave of persecution is crashing down on Chinese Christians Buddhists, and Muslims. And Beijing has now reached a deal with the Vatican that gives the avowedly Contact
atheist Communist Party a direct role in appointing Catholic bishops. For China’s Christians, these are desperate times.” He spoke against Chinese persecution of Uyghurs, the second largest Muslim ethnic group in China, and alleged that China is oppressing their religious freedoms and traditions. “In Xinjiang, the Communist Party has imprisoned as many as one million Muslim Uyghurs in government camps where they endure around-the-clock brainwashing. Survivors of the camps have described their experiences as a deliberate attempt by Beijing to strangle Uyghur culture and stamp out the Muslim faith,” Pence said. He also warned that ethnic minorities, specifically Muslim Uyghurs and Tibetans in China, are 3
increasingly living under a “police state”, after China’s communist government imposed a series of sweeping counter-terrorism measures. He said that by 2020, China’s rulers aim to implement an Orwellian system premised on controlling virtually every facet of human life – the so-called “social credit score”. Lastly, the Vice President expressed his opinion on China’s attempts to meddle in the upcoming American elections saying: “Beijing has mobilised covert actors, front groups and propaganda outlets to shift Americans’ perception of Chinese policies. As a senior career member of our intelligence community recently told me, what the Russians are doing pales in comparison to what China is doing across this country.” OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES Continued from page 1
HR in China Under Scrutiny
in Lhasa and other parts of the Chinese-occupied Tibet region. China’s last UPR took place in October 2013 and included dialogue and debate with the representatives of 137 United Nations member nations. At the end of the review, a list of 252 recommendations spanning economic, cultural and social rights as well as non-derogable rights which include freedom from torture had been put forth by the member nations – of which China accepted 204 and rejected 48. However, the promise to implement those recommendations remains unfulfilled, with further deterioration of human rights being reported in China, the Tibet Advocacy coalition has found in its assessment report. Speaking at the UPR pre-session held in Geneva on October 10, Padma Dolma of the Tibet Advocacy Coalition said, “China has intensified its stringent policies in Tibet, implementing new security measures that focus solely on controlling and violating Tibetan people, rather than protecting their rights.”
Padma Dolma of the Tibet Advocacy Coalition. Photo-UPR
Dolma also recalled that China had, in the 2013 UPR, accepted the recommendation to facilitate the visit of UN human rights officials, including the high commissioner, to Tibetan and Uyghur areas – but has not kept this promise – a fact that Contact
had been brought up by the outgoing High Commissioner himself at the UN Human Rights Council’s 38th session in June this year. Pointing out that China had accumulated over 15 pending requests for visits from UN officials since 2014, Prince Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein said, “Despite repeated efforts to visit China and establish conditions essential for an effective dialogue, my staff has not been given unfettered access to the country, especially to the Tibet Autonomous Region where the human rights situation is fast deteriorating.” In his final address to the HRC, he called on UN member nations to take a stronger stand against the human rights abuses by the Chinese government at the third cycle of China’s UPR. Prince Zeid had also reported that his office had been regularly receiving “urgent appeals regarding arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, ill-treatment and discrimination against various groups including human rights defenders, lawyers, legislators, book sellers and members of communities such as Tibetans and Uyghurs.” The 31st session of the UPR is slated to be held from October 31 onwards and the two-week session will cover 12 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and Mexico among others. China’s review is scheduled for November 6, and the troika nations that will collate the questions and suggestions raised by the rest of the UN member countries and act as China’s rapporteurs at the three-and-a-half-hour-long session are Kenya, Hungary and Saudi Arabia. The report will be released on November 8. UPR FACT SHEET The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a process established by the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council (HRC), under which the human rights record of each of the UN’s 193 member countries is peerreviewed every four or five years. 4
Under the UPR, every country has the opportunity to make recommendations on every other country’s human rights record. The first UPR took place in 2008, the second in 2012 and the third is ongoing. For each individual UPR, three countries, known as the “troika,” are selected by the drawing of lots among Human Rights Council members to assist the Working Group and to coordinate the writing of the outcome report. Three documents form the basis of the UPR: a national report submitted by the state under review, a compilation of UN information by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and a summary, also prepared by the OHCHR, of reports submitted by non-government organisations and other stakeholders. To further promote civil society participation, each government under review is encouraged to broadly consult with domestic civil society when preparing its national report. The core component of the UPR is an interactive dialogue between the state under review and all UN member states that wish to participate by posing questions and making comments or recommendations. Following the dialogue, but prior to the formal adoption of the outcome report, the state under review must indicate whether it accepts, rejects, is already implementing, or needs to further consider each recommendation advanced by member states. Finally, at a Human Rights Council session, the outcome report is adopted as the formal record outlining the results of the review, including the member state’s dispositions regarding the recommendations. The state’s implementation of accepted recommendations will then be incorporated into the next cycle of the UPR. OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari Continued from page 1
Mr Gyari was appointed as the Special Envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Washington DC in 1990 while also serving as President of the International Campaign for Tibet. He gained access to the highest levels of leadership in the United States government and was able to successfully institutionalise the Tibetan issue within the government. In 1998, Mr Gyari led the dialogue process with the government of the People’s Republic of China, conducting nine rounds of highlevel talks and working tirelessly to sustain the process, expand the channels of communication, build trust with the Chinese leadership and maintain a broad international
interest in the dialogue process. He was trusted, consulted and admired by many world leaders and members of the diplomatic corps. Upon his retirement in 2012, the US Senate passed a resolution that honoured his service and commended his achievements. Before his appointment in the United States, Mr Gyari served in the Tibetan Government-in-exile and was one of the youngest people to be appointed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration. Mr Gyari was born in 1949 into an influential family in Nyarong, eastern Tibet and recognised as a reincarnation of Khenchen Jampal Dewé Nyima from Lumorap Monastery.His early education was
in the traditional Tibetan monastic system. He became a journalist and was one of the four founder members of the Tibetan Youth Congress - now the largest Tibetan political organisation in exile. He was active in Tibetan politics, the establishment of democracy in the exile government, the promotion of Tibetan culture and Buddhism and as an academic. He was respected and loved throughout the Tibetan community and will be greatly missed. Mr Gyari is survived by his wife, Dawa Chokyi, their six children (Tenzing Dechen, Tenzing Choyang, Norbu Wangmo, Tashi Chodon, Tulku Penam and Tenzing Tsering), five grandchildren and his mother, as well as four brothers and three sisters.
We Can Achieve Change in the World
by Mary Trewartha A group of 27 youth leaders from conflict zones in 12 different countries visited Dharamshala for a meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama on October 24.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama with the group. Photo: Ven Tenzin Jamphel
The group’s visit was facilitated by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), a nonpartisan and independent institution tasked with promoting national security and global stability by reducing violent conflicts abroad. Their exchange initiative began in 2016 and this is the third group they have brought to meet His Holiness. USIP President Nancy Lindborg led the group during their visit. The group participants were from Afghanistan, Burma, the Central African Republic, Colombia, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, Contact
Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, Tunisia and Venezuela.In their report of the meeting, Phayul quoted USIP as saying, “The dialogue with the Dalai Lama will help the youngsters to build practical skills and personal resilience when they work against the tensions or violence in their homelands.” A delegate from Venezuela asked His Holiness whether it is possible to achieve peace when you have no freedom. “I met Chairman Mao several times”, replied His Holiness, “He behaved like an old farmer who’d become a revolutionary. I developed some respect for him[…] I was attracted then as now to his socio-economic theories, especially the notion of equal distribution.” He said that in the early years, “Chinese revolutionary leaders were really dedicated, but once they tasted power it seems exercising it became more important than ideology.” His Holiness explained that in exile, he believes in focusing on the preservation of Tibetan culture and identity by educating Tibetan children and said that resorting 5
to anger and violence is selfdestructive and leads to harsher suppression, and that violence is the wrong method to bring about change. Nancy Lindborg responded, saying that USIP has evidence that non-violence is consistently more effective in the long run.
His Holiness speaking to the group at his residence. Photo: Ven tenzin Jamphel
His Holiness continued, “We have to remember that each and every one of us is a part of humanity [...]This kind of meeting gives me confidence that we […] can achieve change in the world. We can cause the seeds of good to grow. “Everyone wants to live a happy life”, said His Holiness, “But many don’t know how it’s to be done. In time, and with effort, we can change that.” OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES
China’s Disregard for Human Rights
by Saule Aitkulova The Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC*, based in the United States) released its annual report on October 10 which comprehensively discloses the Chinese government’s disregard for human rights and showcases evidence of more than 1,300 active cases of political and religious prisoners contained in the Commission’s Political Prisoner Database. In addition, the report documents rights violations in ethnic minority regions, religious freedom violations, harassment of rights defenders and lawyers, suppression of free speech, large-scale forced evictions, onerous restrictions on civil society and more– all of which, it says, are the markings of a repressive, Communist one-party state. The report indicates that the human rights deterioration escalated in China following Xi Jinping’s appointment as Communist Party General Secretary in 2012. According to the data provided by CECC there is the mass, arbitrary internment of as many as one million or more Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities in ‘‘political re-education’’ camps in western China. Some argue that such scope of imprisonment of ethnic minorities may be the largest since World War II and therefore falls into the classification of crimes against humanity. An international expert described the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region as ‘‘a police state to rival North Korea, with a formalised racism”. Tibet The human rights situation in Tibet remains critical as China continues to use its repressive tactics towards Tibetans who seek a meaningful level of autonomy in terms of their religion and culture. The report notes numerous cases of detainees who were captured and threatened for exercising their right to practise their religion: possessing Contact
books and audio recordings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, travelling to Bodh Gaya in India to attend the Dalai Lama’s teachings, etc. In addition, the Chinese authorities continue to jail Tibetans for peaceful protests and impose a fine of $440 (£334) per day on Tibetans who make a pilgrimage on foot to Tibet’s capital, Lhasa. The report documents three Tibetans who have self-immolated during the past year: Tenga, 63-year-old monk; Konpe, a former monk in his thirties and TsekhoTugchag (also known as Tugchak), another former monk. Instead of addressing the ongoing tragedy, the report said that the Chinese authorities threaten the families of those who set themselves on fire. Regarding economic development in Tibet, the commission’s report
notes that even though China boasts about contributing to its economic growth there is no evidence that China has sought systematic input from the Tibetan people on its economic plans. “The International Campaign for Tibet welcomes the release of the 2018 CECC report, which not only sheds light on and clearly documents the authoritarian rule imposed by China in Tibet and beyond, but also provides concrete recommendations to the US government on how to effectively counter the efforts by Beijing to consolidate its power, completely disregard the rule of law and avoid being held accountable to its own citizens,” said ICT President Matteo Mecacci. Calls for reciprocity and dialogue The report also states that no formal dialogue has taken place in nearly 6
nine years between the Chinese government and the representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and provides a list of recommended changes to US policy toward China. One of these recommendations is to prioritise reciprocity in America’s relationship with the Chinese government. The report mentions the bill entitled The Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act that was passed by a US Congressional committee. The bill, which now moves to the House of Representatives, stands for denying entry to the United States for Chinese officials who prevent American journalists and common citizens from entering Tibet. “I’m confident that if we can get it onto the floor of the Senate in some form, it would pass” Senator Marco Rubio said, adding, “We want to get it there, we believe there’s support for it, and we’re working hard to get it accomplished.” The issue of Panchen Lama is highlighted several times throughout the report. The report recommends that US officials keep requesting that the Chinese authorities allow access for independent representatives of an international organisation to meet Gedun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama. Gedun Choekyi Nyima was arrested by the Chinese authorities 20 years ago and has been missing ever since. He was recognised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama as the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama, second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism. *The mandate of the CECC is to “authorise extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the People’s Republic of China, and to establish a framework for relations between the United States and the People’s Republic of China”. This includes a mandate to monitor compliance with human rights: “The Commission shall monitor the acts of the People’s Republic of China which reflect compliance with or violation of human rights.” OCTOBER 2018
by Tenzin Tsering The ninth Tibet Film Festival opened its doors to film enthusiasts from around the world simultaneously in Zurich, Switzerland and at the Tibetan Children’s Village day school in McLeod Ganj. The two-day festival took place from October 13-15 and is the first festival solely dedicated to Tibetan filmmakers. It presents films produced and/or directed by Tibetans both from Tibet and living in exile. The festival kicked off with the screening of an interview with
by Lodoe Gyatso The Tibetan Parliament-in-exile passed a new law on October 3 to reinforce the partyless democratic system of the Tibetan people and to regulate election campaign practices and timeframes. “Tibetan democracy is a partyless democracy. We believe in it and we take pride in it. Now with these amendments, we have achieved true partyless democracy,” Sikyong (President) Dr Lobsang Sangay stated at the signing ceremony. The new law consists of three amendments. Firstly, it prohibits all regional and religious associations and NGOs from nominating candidates for Sikyong and Members of Parliament.
NEWS & ISSUES
The 9th Tibetan Film Festival former political prisoner Dhondup Wangchen. Dhondup Wangchen, who now lives in the United States, was imprisoned by the Chinese authorities after completing his documentary Leaving Fear Behind in 2008. The film documented the plight of Tibetans living under Chinese rule and their hopes of seeing His Holiness the Dalai Lama return to Tibet. The Tibet Film Festival has been dedicated to Dhondup Wangchen since its founding in 2008.
Election reforms
The second major amendment is with regard to the process of electing Sikyong in the Preliminary and Final Election. According to the new law, “If in the preliminary election, a candidate secures more than 60% of the total votes, then, he or she doesn’t have to contest a second round and is automatically elected.” The third amendment establishes a new and reduced timeframe for the election process. From more than 200 days, it has been cut to less than one hundred days. “It is still long but nonetheless we have shortened it by more than half,” Sikyong said. Sikyong explained that banning regional or religious organisations or any NGOs from nominating political
Wangdrak’s Rainboots, a short film by Lhapa Gyal, hailed by Phayul as the highlight of the festival, was screened after Dhondup Wangchen’s interview. Also shown was one non-Tibetan production, Hu Wei’s Butter Lamp, which was nominated for the Academy Awards for the best live action short film. The short film competition joint winners were Tsering Wangmo’s Tales From the Pastures and Tseten Dorjee’s Jangthang, sharing the US$1,000 prize.
candidates relates to their registration under the Indian Society Registration Act which precludes them from engaging in election politics. Sikyong continued, “We take pride in our partyless democracy because this concept was there at the very beginning of India’s independence. If there is a political party, sometimes the party’s interest prevails over national interest. Also, a party leader’s interest could prevail over national interest. Hence it harms the national interest.” Phayul reported that the reform amendments secured an overwhelming majority constituting over two-thirds of the house. The next Tibetan election will take place in 2021.
HH the Dalai Lama Prescribes Compassion to End Suffering
by Anisha Francis In order to end human suffering, one needs to foster compassion and selflessness–and not rely on prayer alone, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said during his four-day Uma Jukpa discourse held in Dharamshala from October 3–6. “It is important to recognise that suffering is rooted in ignorance. We remain subject to ignorance as long as we think of the ‘I’ as an independent being and continue to have this distorted view of reality,” said His Holiness in his introductory teachings, Contact
speaking to a crowd of over 6,500 people packed into the courtyard of the Tsuglakhang temple, the main temple of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The devotees had travelled from 67 countries to hear the Tibetan leader elaborate on one of the most famous works of seventh century Buddhist scholar Chandrakirti, Introduction to the Middle Way. Among them were at least 1,000 pilgrims from Taiwan, belonging to the International Association of Tibetan Buddhist Dharma in Taiwan. His Holiness stressed the importance of taming the mind through meditation, 7
and leading an altruistic life in order to be able to liberate oneself. “I read a report that elderly people are increasingly experiencing loneliness and depression; but if one is able to cultivate compassion and bodichitta, they will never feel lonely,” he said. “The true essence of Buddha’s teaching is also what every other world religion teaches–do not harm others, be kind and cultivate a wealth of virtue by taming your mind,” His Holiness reiterated. To express their gratitude, a group of Taiwanese devotees recited a prayer for the Dalai Lama’s long life. OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES
Interpol President Disappears in China
by Lisa Petrenko Bunker Interpol and the French authorities are investigating the sudden disappearance of the Chinese Interpol President Meng Hongwei. On October 4, Meng was reported missing to the French authorities by his wife Grace. Meng’s wife reported that she had not had any contact from her husband since September 25, when he had made a routine business trip to China from the Interpol headquarters in Lyon, France. The last message she received from him was a text message saying, “wait for my call” followed by a knife emoji,which she took as a sign that her husband believed his life to be in danger. Since her husband’s disappearance she has also received threatening phone calls, one of which was an anonymous man who stated, “You listen but you do not speak … we’ve come in two work teams, two work teams just for you.” The caller also claimed to know her – and her children’s – location. The French authorities have since placed the family under police protection. On October 7, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security issued a statement
claiming that Meng was detained immediately upon entering China, and is being held under house arrest at an undisclosed location in Bejing. China claims Meng, who is also China’s viceminister for public security, is under investigation for allegations of “accepting bribes and suspected violations of laws”. The investigation is being overseen by the newly created National Supervision Commission (NSC), which was formed in March this year with the responsibility of investigating corruption in the Chinese government. Meng Hongwei’s detention and investigation is part of Chinese president Xi Jinping’s administration’s crackdown on corruption within its Communist Party. Since 2012 Xi Jingping’s regime has investigated and punished over a million party members, many of whom received lengthy jail sentences. Human rights groups, including the group Human Rights Watch, are labelling Meng’s disappearance and detention as an example of the Chinese policy called Liuzhi. Liuzhi replaces a previous interrogation practice, Shuanggi,
which was exposed as containing numerous human rights violations when investigated by Human Rights Watch. These violations included “arbitrary and long-term incommunicado detention, solitary confinement, and torture”. Liuzhi is an effort by China to show it is using legal forms of detention and interrogation, and is meant to include notification for the family within 24 hours of the detention, as well as video taped interrogation sessions which provide more transparency. However, in Meng’s case neither the family or Interpol were notified of the allegations against Meng, or that he had been detained. Interpol, which is the international policing organisation consisting of members from 192 countries and whose objective is to help find fugitives or missing persons, has submitted a formal request to the Chinese government to produce information on the location and physical condition of Meng Hongwei. Interpol and the French authorities have classified his disappearance as “disturbing”, especially given the details of the final text to his wife and the threats to his family.
Negotiating the Karmapa’s Return by Sarah Gittleman The Indian government has issued a request that the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje return to his temporal home. This request follows the revelation that he had acquired a Dominican passport this month after extending his stay in the United States. Citing the importance of his return to the Tibetan refugee Photo: PTI community, Indian officials have offered certain assurances in order to negotiate his homecoming. Having expressed a desire to travel without any hindrance, Ogyen Trinley Contact
Dorje is said to have acquired the passport in order to circumvent foreign travel restrictions imposed by India, which once questioned whether the lama was working as a foreign agent after his dramatic escape from occupied Tibet. Ogyen Trinley Dorje has since been assured that he is no longer suspected of such charges, and that he would be permitted to travel more freely both domestically and abroad. Notably, the revocation of previous travel restrictions would include the right to travel to the Indian state of Sikkim, where he had been completely denied the right to visit since arriving in India in 2000. Travelling to Sikkim is of particular importance since it is home to the Rumtek Monastery, which is the traditional seat of the Gyalwang Karmapa. However, Indian officials have made clear it that this new policy would not include the right to visit the 8
monastery itself, especially since there is an ongoing legal dispute between two claimants for the title of Karmapa. In addition to easing travel restrictions, the Indian government has also started scouting land near New Delhi for the purpose of providing Ogyen Trinley Dorje with a larger and more centrally located monastic compound. According to Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, President of the Tibetan Government-in-exile, Ogyen Trinley Dorje will return to Dharamshala this November to attend a meeting of the heads of the different religious sects of Tibetan Buddhism. However, some have expressed concern that he may instead seek asylum abroad since a previous promise to return by June 2018 went unfulfilled. His absence, which is said to be an embarrassment to Indian intelligence agencies, also has important geopolitical implications. OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES China’s Ambassador Makes Excuses
by Choeyang Wangmo China’s Ambassador to the United States, Mr Cui Tiankai, has said the reason that China will not give foreign journalists access to Tibet is because of Tibet’s high altitude. Cui was speaking to Steve Inskeep, host of National Public Radio, on October 3 in the wake of the recently-passed US Congress bill on reciprocal access to Tibet.
Mr Cui Tiankai, China’s Ambassador to US
The interview covered several topics including trade, understanding and openness between the two nations.
Asked if he will be open to American scholars and journalists who may have controversial views on China and want to visit Tibet, Cui replied, “You see, we are open to American students, professors, journalists or scholars. Of course, for some other places like Tibet because it’s very high altitude and the climate could be very tough there.” Cui also mentioned that the Chinese government is in the middle of organising a visit to Tibet led by Terry Branstad, the American Ambassador in Beijing. Inskeep asked Cui about China’s policies in the regions of Tibet and Xinjiang, or east Turkestan, a Muslim majority region in north western China. He questioned Cui about the recent reports of many of the Uyghurs who live there being put in reeducation camps; Cui answered that
these people are being re-educated to develop new skills to “have a better life”. The Tibetan Review reported this interview, saying, “Cui has refused to either admit or deny the existence of these camps. He has, instead, toed the Chinese government’s line that Uyghurs were being re-educated to ‘learn skills’ and to prevent them from adopting extremist ideologies.” Inskeep follows up the conversation by asking Cui if he would like to welcome Branstad to Xinjiang. Cui replied that the problem in Xinjiang is nothing to do with altitude, saying that it is terrorism that is causing chaos in the region. Emphasising this point, Cui added that China is “open to the rest of the world” but Xinjiang has issues of violent extremist groups who are trying to “create a situation like ISIS”.
Former Tibetan Political Prisoner Dies by Choeyang Wangmo Former Tibetan political prisoner Shonu Palden, 41, died on September 30 as a result of mistreatment and torture during his detention in prison in Machu County Kanlho, Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Shonu Palden was arrested by the Chinese authorities on June 18, 2012 at his hometown, Rongkor Village, for inciting protests in Machu County in 2008. He was sentenced to two years and nine months but released before the completion of his prison term with multiple health issues. He was released on July 24, 2013 and allowed to return to his family when it became clear that he would die in prison due to injuries from severe beatings and torture sustained while in detention. His health issues include weak eyesight, breathing problems and blocked arteries. His health did not improve following his release despite having undergone prolonged Contact
medical treatment, including two major surgeries. Shonu Palden reportedly died on his way to the hospital on September 30. He is survived by his wife and three children who are all under eleven years of age.
Shonu Palden in an undated photo. Photo: TCHRD
“Mr. Palden’s incarceration and subsequent death due to torture-related injuries violate a host of human rights conventions signed and ratified by China including the ConventionAgainst Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment,” said the Tibetan Centre for Human 9
Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) after Palden’s demise. TCHRD calls on the Chinese government to lead a thorough investigation into the death of Shonu Palden. Namgyal Dolma, Palden’s elder daughter aged 10, is reported to have heard that she has been denied school admission because of her father’s past political activity. “Last year, we reported on the incident of Namgyal Dolma being denied school admission due to her father’s political activities. This is a typical example of collective punishment from local authorities – denying his daughter access to education as a form of intimidation and retribution – and is intended to discourage future dissent or related political activities,” reports FreeTibet, a United Kingdom based online news portal campaigning for international recognition of Tibetans’ right to freedom and an end to China’s occupation of Tibet. OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES Oct 26: Prayer Festival Banned The Dechen Shingdrup festival, the annual Tibetan prayer festival at Larung Gar in Tibet – the world’s largest Buddhist institute – has been banned by Chinese officials for the third year running. Larung Gar was once home to up to 40,000 monks and nuns but much of it has been demolished by Chinese authorities. Oct 25: Support for Cyclone Victims The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has issued an appeal for funds to help victims of cyclone Titli which swept through Odisha earlier this month. Dhondup Tsering from the CTA’s Department of Home has visited the Phuntsok Tibetan settlement to assess the damage which preliminary estimates suggest exceeds INR 30 million (US$ 410,000 / £320,000). Oct 23: Chinese Outreach The Chinese Outreach Forum and Training is underway at the Tibetan Administrative Training and Welfare Society. Tibetan students and professionals from 12 countries are taking part in the fourday session for the purpose of creating a dialogue regarding the current situation in Tibet. The meeting has been organised by the China Desk of the Central Tibetan Administration. Oct 19: Another Landslide A landslide has blocked the Yarlung Tsangpo River in U-Tsang and approximately 6,000 people have been evacuated as water levels rose by 40 metres. No deaths or injuries have been reported. The landslides are sparking demands to investigate excessive mining and dam construction which are believed to be causing environmental disasters in the region. Oct 19: No Compensation A protest took place on October 11 outside the government offices in Nyipa township in Chone county. Tibetans were protesting against non-payment of compensation promised in 2015 when livestock was culled by order of the government. With livestock farming being their main source of income, many families have been left without their animals or with greatly reduced stock. Oct 18: Protestors Beaten A group of Tibetans were attacked and beaten by Chinese workers in Choeje village in Qinghai province during a protest about land. The Chinese workers damaged the Tibetans’ nearby grazing areas by driving heavy vehicles and machinery over the land and refused to pay compensation. Contact
Tibetan Headlines
Some Chinese workers were taken into custody. Oct 17: Protests Protestors from Chinese controlled Tibet, southern Mongolia and Xinjiang gathered during the opening day of the 12th Asia– Europe Meeting (ASEM) to protest against Beijing’s repressive control. The rally was jointly organised by UNPO (Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organisation), ICT (International Campaign for Tibet), the World Uyghur Congress and the Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Centre. Oct 17: Natural Disasters The recent increase in natural disasters in Tibet was raised at the third International Conference on Mountains in the Changing World in Kathmandu. Zamlha Tempa Gyaltsen from the Tibet Policy Institute spoke about the impact of climate change on mountainous regions – including the Tibetan Plateau – saying that adapting to new climatic conditions could mitigate its negative impact.
Chinese reality talent show Sing! Nyima is the second Tibetan to win the contest, which is only in its third season. Dukgyam Tsering, another Tibetan, was also among the top five acts. The grand finale was held at the Beijing National Stadium. Oct 6: Appeal The Central Tibetan Administration has put out an appeal for funds for Tibetans who have suffered losses in recent floods. The Kullu Manali region was hit particularly hard, and many Tibetans have suffered devastating losses of personal property. Infrastructure has also been badly damaged. More information and details of where to send donations is available at tibet.net Oct 4: World Record The Guinness Book of World Records has named a Tibetan vineyard as the “World’s highest vineyard.” The Pure Land and Super-High Altitude Vineyard in Chushul County stands at an altitude of 3,563 metres above sea level, and is the first to be awarded the record for “Highest Vineyard”. The only other contenders are in Argentina.
Oct 12: Cyclone The Tibetan settlement in the Chandragiri district in the state of Odhisha in eastern India has been affected by Cyclone Titli which swept through Andra Pradesh and Odisha with winds up to 150 kmph. Houses, roads, crops and power grids have been damaged and eight people have died and the Tibetan settlement is cut off, reports the Tibetan Journal.
Oct 3: Forced Relocation Tibetan villagers within nine villages in Gonjo County in Chamdo, an area rich in natural resources, are undergoing forced relocation by Chinese authorities. A local source for Radio Free Asia has said, “The Tibetans in these villages believe that the local Chinese authorities in Gonjo plan to build an electric power plant and do mining in the area”.
Oct 12: Landslide The Dri Chu river in Kham has been blocked by a landslide. There are no reports of casualties, but an emergency rescue plan is in place. Bogong and Ningba villages have been evacuated and the Boluo Township primary school has been closed. Dri chu is the longest river in Asia, reaching the Pacific Ocean near Shanghai.
Oct 2: Explosion Report India’s National Investigative Agency reported that explosive devices found in Bodhgaya during HH the Dalai Lama’s teaching there earlier this year were targeted at His Holiness himself. Seven people were arrested after a bomb exploded on January 19 and two unexploded devices were later discovered. Reports indicate that the perpetrators wanted to show solidarity with Rohingya Muslims undergoing persecution in Myanmar.
Oct 10: Czech Tibet Group A newly-formed Czech Parliamentary Group for Tibet has been launched at the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic with Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, President of the Tibetan Governmentin-Exile, as a guest speaker. The Group has over 50 representatives from both Chambers and is the largest Parliamentary Group for Tibet in Europe. Oct 9: Winning Singer! Tenzin Nyima from Malho Prefecture in Amdo was crowned winner of the popular 10
Oct 2: World River Day Students for a Free Tibet activists marked World River Day by paragliding near Bir to highlight the effects of China’s river damming and diversion developments on the rivers in Tibet. SFT’s banner, flown in the sky by the paragliders, read, “If Tibet Dries, Asia Dies”. There are concerns that Tibet’s permafrost reserves are threatened by China’s exploitation of rivers, as well as global warming. OCTOBER 2018
NEWS & ISSUES International Headlines
Oct 31: Reprieve A Christain Woman in Pakistan who was facing the death sentence for blasphemy has had her sentence overturned by Islamabad’s Supreme Court. The case has polarised Pakistan and sparked voilent protests. Asia Bibi was accused of insluting the Prophet Muhammad in a row with her neighbours but maintians her innocence. She has been in solitay confinement since her arrest in 2010.
Oct 29: Merkel to Step Down Angela Merkel, Germany’s Chancellor, has announced her intention to resign from the post. Following recent election setbacks she will step down when her term ends in 2021 and will not seek re-election as leader of her centre-right CDU party. She has held the post since 2000. Backing for the major parties in Germany has fallen off, with the Green party and the far-right, anti-immigration AFD gaining support. Oct 26: Satanic Murder Plot Two schoolgirls have been arrested in Florida when their plot to kill classmates in a satanic rite was exposed. The girls said they are Satan worshippers and planned to kill students at Bartow Middle School in order to consume their blood and flesh. They were found in possession of a butchers knife, pizza cutter and scissors. Oct 25: Mobile Giants Fined Italy has fined Apple and Samsung ten and five million Euros respectively over “planned obsolescence” in smartphones, deeming them to have “implemented unfair commercial practices,” as the companies encourage users to download system updates but do not tell customers that these will slow down their older phones – thus spurring them to buy new devices. Oct 24: Ancient shipwreck A 2,400 year old Greek merchant ship has been discovered in the Black Sea and is said to be the world’s oldest known intact shipwreck. The design of the 23m (75ft) ship closely resembles a ship which adorns ancient Greek wine vases. The ship is perfectly preserved, with its rudder, rowing benches and contents intact. Oct 23: Google Protest Chinese political cartoonist Badiucao is campaigning against Google’s plans to implement a censored search engine in China by distributing red baseball caps with the slogan “Make Wall Great Again”. He sent them to Google’s employees and gift shop, and placed them on sculptures around Google’s headquarters. He says a censored Contact
search engine would be as “shameful as Trump’s wall”.
supplemental oxygen, was among those killed.
Oct 20: Protest in Taiwan Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Taipei calling on their president Tsai Ing-wen to stand up to Beijing in the face of intensifying pressure from China. They are demanding a referendum on declaring Taiwan’s independence from China, despite China’s claims that Taiwan is Chinese territory.
Oct 10: Journalist Killed A row has broken out over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi who disappeared after entering Saudi Arabia’s consulate in Istanbul. Saudi officials, initially denying any involvement, eventually admitted to the killing after Turkey provided evidence that contradicted initial accounts. The journalist has written opinion pieces critical of the Saudi administration.
Oct 19: Pot Legalised! In Canada people have been queuing to buy recreational cannabis legally for the first time and celebrated with parties, park hangouts and non-stop media coverage. Canada is now one of two nations in the world where marijuana is fully legalised. Some concerns have been reported that legalisation could increase use, especially among young people.
Oct 9: Captured in Libya Hisham al-Ashmawy, one of Egypt’s most wanted jihadists, has been captured by Libyan security forces in the city of Darnah. The former army officer, who was wearing an explosive vest at the time of his capture, is said to have been behind several deadly attacks in Egypt as well as an attempt against a top state official.
Oct 18: No Women Hindu women trying to lawfully enter the Sabarimala temple in Kerala were attacked and prevented from gaining access. Several were injured as people in the crowd threw stones. Traditionally, menstruating women are not allowed into Hindu temples but all women of menstruating age were banned from the Sabarimala until a Supreme Court ruling last month.
Oct 5: Charities Evicted Pakistan has told 18 international charities, including ActionAid, to leave the country within 60 days. ActionAid has been told it can “re-apply for registration” in six months time. Pakistan is suspicious of foreign nongovernment organisations and their motives, and ordered a number to leave last year but relented following pressure from Western governments.
Oct 17: Equality! Half of the Ethiopian government’s ministerial posts are now filled by women under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership. Mr Abiy said women are “less corrupt than men” and would help restore peace and stability. Ethiopia and Rwanda are the only African states to have equal gender representation in the cabinet.
Oct 4: Pardon Revoked Alberto Fujimori, the former president of Peru who was jailed after being linked to a death squad and two massacres, and then pardoned last year on health grounds, has had his pardon reversed. A court ordered him back to jail after a victims’ group appealed the pardon that granted his release after only nine years of his 25-year prison term.
Oct 16: No Sleeping Rough Hungary has banned sleeping in public areas. The new law, first approved in June, has been labelled as “cruel” by the United Nations. The Hungarian government says it is in the “interests of society as a whole”. There are an estimated 20,000 homeless people in Hungary, but only 11,000 places in state-run shelters.
Oct 3: Nobel Winner The Nobel Prize for Physics has been awarded to a woman – the third woman ever to win in this field. Donna Strickland from Canada shares this year’s prize with Arthur Ashkin from the United States and Gerard Mourou from France. Previous women to win the prize were Marie Curie in 1903 and Maria Goeppert-Mayer in 1963.
Oct 15: Climbers Killed Five South Korean climbers and four Nepali guides were killed on a Himalayan peak in western Nepal when their camp was destroyed in a violent snowstorm at Mount Gurja base camp. Kim Chang-ho, the first South Korean to reach the summits of the world’s 14 highest mountains without using
Oct 1: Citizenship Revoked Aung San Suu Kyi, the de facto leader of Myanmar, has been stripped of her honorary Canadian citizenship because of her failure to stop the violent persecution of the Muslim Rohingya minority in her country. Honorary citizenship is conferred – or removed – by a joint resolution of both houses of parliament.
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NEWS & ISSUES
Why the Situation in Tibet and Xinjiang Should Concern Us All by Sarah Gittleman The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has recently faced widespread condemnation after retroactively legitimising internment camps in Xinjiang, the region of north western China formerly known as East Turkestan, which is inhabited by the Muslim Uyghur people under Chinese rule.The purpose of these camps– whose existence has hit the international news – has been to force non-Chinese societies to accept Chinese rule. These camps are not dissimilar to the Re-education Through Labour (RTL) camps that have long existed within Tibet. Meant to root out dissent, the camps demonstrate the extent to which the Chinese government will go in order to maintain control over the lands and people they claim as their own. Yet, in spite of the obvious human rights implications, many people who live outside the PRC believe that this issue does not affect them personally. As a result, they dismiss the abuse, and choose to ignore the problem. However, even if we are able to ignore the fact that the PRC’s “solution” to political dissidence is eerily reminiscent of Nazi concentration camps and US Japanese internment camps, we should still be concerned by these coercive practices, if only for our own sake, as some people are starting to realise the possibility that it may be “Tibet and Xinjiang today, us tomorrow”. Even if the PRC hasn’t laid claim to physical territory within our respective states – as it has in at least 23 countries, not including the once independent states it now occupies – we still remain vulnerable to its influence. With globalisation on the rise, the PRC is finding novel ways to assert its dominance. In today’s age, power can be established via the employment of money and media which can be equally coercive. Instead of invading a country, the PRC can utilise “soft power” to achieve control without firing a shot. Other countries
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even welcome them to do so, as they are unaware of what they are forfeiting in exchange for what the PRC purports to offer. Examples of this can be found the world over, as international investments, Confucius Institutes and foreign language news outlets are all used to create footholds within other countries. First, the PRC engages in an information campaign meant to soften its image abroad. Confucius Institutes – Chinese government-funded educational institutions that partner with universities and schools around the world to teach Chinese language, culture, and history – are actually spreading misinformation since they teach a very particular, Beijingapproved version of Chinese culture and history that ignores concerns over human rights and teaches that Taiwan and Tibet indisputably belong to mainland China. Li Changchun, a standing member of the Politburo, has even called the institutes “an important part of China’s overseas propaganda set-up.” Yet, there has been an alarming willingness for other countries to accept the money tied to these partnerships. Of even more concern is the PRC’s investment in foreign language news outlets. Meant to establish greater control over narratives about the PRC, CCTV– the PRC’s state-sponsored television broadcasting news service – has rebranded itself as China Global Television Network, from which it broadcasts six channels in more than 70 countries. Additionally, China Radio International broadcast 392 hours of programming per day from more than 27 overseas bureaus, including a covert network of radio stations in 14 countries that are run through front companies in order to mask the PRC’s influence. Furthermore, the PRC’s “50 Cent Army” – a group of statebacked internet commentators – are used to blanket the internet with posts proclaiming the positive influence of the PRC. With each of these tools, the goal is the same: legitimise the PRC’s 12
abuses by exposing foreign audiences to Chinese propaganda, often without their knowledge. Second, the PRC invests in the development of other nations. If other countries become dependent upon its funding, the PRC is able to dictate the terms of the relationship. This might explain the PRC’s willingness to contribute hundreds of billions of dollars to the development of other countries. Britain, for example, has recently been forced to review the terms under which it would accept Chinese support for a new nuclear facility amid concerns that it would leave the country susceptible to “energy blackmail”. Nonetheless, many accept the PRC’s financial support without giving adequate consideration to the possible implications of accepting such aid. Last year, Sri Lanka was forced to hand over the strategic Hambantota Port after it failed to meet its commitments to the PRC. Likewise, Djibouti is expected to cede control of another key port, further demonstrating the fact that Chinese lending is not done in the name of altruism. Instead, the PRC is engaging in “debt-trap diplomacy” described by former US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson as “encouraging dependency using […] deals that mire nations in debt and undercut their sovereignty...” With this practice, the PRC gains control without ever needing to engage in any militaristic dispute. Currently, it remains unclear what happens next. Once the PRC has gained economic or physical control within another country, will it tolerate dissent? Considering China’s willingness to justify grave abuses against its own citizens, it is difficult to hold out hope that it would simply change course. International law and the principle of sovereignty would likely bar some of the PRC’s more extreme practices from occurring outside of its own borders, but we should be wary, nonetheless, of any country willing to demonstrate such disregard for the rights of man. OCTOBER 2018
DHARAMSHALA VOICES by Jenny James Lily lives in rural England now, but was brought up in Tibet. Lily is Chinese, her father a Chinese army officer who led his men into Lhasa during the invasion of Tibet and was there for the subsequent Tibetan resistance and uprisings. She knows it’s hard for people to understand how somebody could do that – lead men on a hostile invasion of another country – and paints a picture of her father’s early life as a teenager in rural China, a peasant farmer living in poverty and famine. The Chinese army came to his village and offered him food and clothes and security. At the time he never questioned whether what he was doing for the army was right or wrong and remained loyal to the Communist Party until very recently. Lily thinks that in his heart, he knew that what he was ordered to do was wrong, but under the Communist Party, one learned never to tell the truth or ask questions: people were betrayed for questioning the party policies, even by members of their own families.
Lily and her family in China
Lily went to school in Lhasa. She reminisces about her life there, and was able to observe the way Tibetans lived their lives and remembers, for example, watching people washing clothes, singing their songs – she says they had a song for every job. She remembers walking to school, a 40 minute walk, taking a short cut through
My Tibetan Childhood gardens right behind the Potala and remembers huge weeping willows around a lake there and has vivid memories of this wonderfully peaceful place.
Lily in the army
She was a self-confessed tomboy and a bit of a rebel, liking to be outside, climbing on roofs and blocking chimneys, saying “I had nothing better to do!”, and fighting with Tibetan kids, who they were scared of, as the Chinese kids regarded the Tibetans as rogues. After one fight she had to apologise to the Tibetan family, and was accused of working against national unity because of the trouble she caused with her fighting. Lily says that the only books they were permitted to read were Communist Party literature and books about communist heroes, Mao Tse Dung, Lenin, Stalin and Karl Marx. To this day Lily can quote the writings of Mao! The first half hour of every school day was spent reading his works. She remembers a lot of tension, seeing the fighting and the army control of the temples, and says she found what was going on around her confusing. Lily tells of attending the executions of nine “counter revolutionaries”. She said the soldiers went round after the execution, checking each body for any survivors and shooting any they found.
She saw hoardes of people trying to get the clothes of the people who had been executed – she remembers this being the normal reaction to death – to acquire clothes. She was shocked by what she saw and by the fact that people never seemed to ask “why?” but to just accept. The propaganda teams talked about how life was in Tibet before it was “liberated” by the Chinese, they said that the “slaves” had been forced to carry their masters everywhere on their backs. She tells of the Tibetans being forced to give up the barley which grows so well in Tibet and had always been a staple of their diet, and the failure of the wheat crops which they had to grow instead, and their having to eat dumplings which they did not know or like. She left school and joined the army, eventually leaving to become selfemployed. In late April 1989 when the train of events leading up to the Tiananmen Square massacre started, Lily was in Beijing where she watched the mood change from excitement and approval to fear and then terror as events unfolded. At first, she thought it was simply another student demonstration for democracy and as events escalated they never thought the soldiers would fire on their own people. She saw it all first hand, and it led to her leaving China, eventually coming to live in safety in England.
Lily in England
Every month we feature somebody from the Tibetan community on our Dharamshala Voices page as well as the occasional profile of one of the many NGOs in Dharamshala who do so much to help the Tibetan Community - see over for LIT. You can read more Dharamshala Voices stories on the Contact website: http://www.contactmagazine.net/dharamasla-life/ The People stories on the Dharamshala Voices page online tell the stories of the people who make up the Tibetan exile community inDharamshala and elsewhere, as well as the stories of Lha students and volunteers, told in their own words. Contact
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DHARAMSHALA VOICES AND LHA NEWS Learning and Ideas for Tibet
by Lodoe Gyatso When Norbu was at school his teachers drummed the message into him that it is important to give back to the community. Today he is living out the values that were taught to him as the Director of Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT). He humbly tells us his story as he explains the workings of LIT and its achievements in serving the Tibetan people. After completing Hotel Management training in 2012 Norbu returned to McLeod Ganj. A friend who was working at LIT told him about an opportunity to serve the community and so he started his involvement with LIT, first teaching Intermediate English. Later he took on the role of cashier in addition to teaching. In 2015 he was asked to lead LIT and this he has done ever since. Norbu dreams of when LIT can support destitute Tibetans financially, and is raising awareness of the need amongst the Tibetan community. Acccording to LIT’s website, it was founded in March 2009, by a young Tibetan, Tsering Sangpo, and an Australian, Lauren Smith, to address social issues affecting the Tibetan refugee community. Many Tibetans arrived in India fleeing from political persecution in Tibet and came with very limited funds and skills as many come from illiterate farming or nomadic backgrounds. Therefore, many refugees find it difficult to integrate into India which can lead to high unemployment rates, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, poverty and feelings of disempowerment and isolation.
Tsering sought to address these issues by providing free education and skills training to recently arrived Tibetan refugees in a flexible environment. He also wanted to provide a place for the local and international communities to discuss and address local issues and spread awareness about the situation in Tibet. LIT provides totally free education to Tibetan students. Students from other backgrounds are accepted for a small fee provided that they can afford
Photo: Contact/Lha
it. In 2017 LIT had 134 students in a variety of fields which include English, French, computing and Japanese. LIT’s mission is to provide, through daily classes: 1.Free education to disenfranchised Tibetan refugees and local members of the community. 2.A platform for the local and international community to discuss and address issues affecting the local Tibetan community to allow for positive changes to be made at a grassroots level. 3.Employment opportunities for the local community. 4.Tibetan refugees with access to health care services.
LIT is a registered charity, dependent on financial contributions from individual donors, corporations and organisations. It can be found off Jogibara Road below the Japanese Restaurant. Contact magazine spoke to some of LIT’s students, volunteers and staff about their experiences. Tashi Chopel is a student at LIT. He said that LIT is like a lamp causing the darkness of ignorance to disappear. He added that he has been able to clear his mind and think about others. He particularly values the teaching methods used at LIT. Another student, Tsering Tobden, says that his English has improved in the time that he has been studying at LIT. Lobsang Wangdue has studied for two years at LIT. He says that he can now communicate with people. “It is very important to me,” he says proudly. He has put a lot of effort into studying vocabulary. He also notes that LIT uses many different techniques to teach English. Staff member Tenzin Tselha gets excited about the excellent relations between staff and students. “I feel that each day at LIT is productive,” she says. Co-worker Tenzin Tseyang says that an important part of each day is getting knowledge and giving knowledge. “I can learn from the students,” she says enthusiastically. Volunteer Alex Laba has the last word. “I really enjoy LIT because it has good vibes.”
Smile Dental Project 2018
Under the Smile Dental Project 2018, Lha Charitable Trust organised two talks by Miss Tenzin Choedon from Delek Hospital on dental issues. The first talk was attended by 22 people who regularly attend the Lha soup kitchen and the second was by 34 students from Lha’s language classes. Contact
Both talks focused on daily dental care and hygiene, including how to brush one’s teeth, information about cavities etc. Free toothbrushes and toothpaste were available for anybody who needed them. Miss Choedon qualified in Dental Surgery from JSS Dental College and Hospital in Mysore.
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LHA NEWS AND PROJECTS A Visit from US Friends Lha hosted a group of people from the United States led by Neil Guidry, and composed of Lha founders and Advisory Board members. The group – referred to as the “Hospice group” – was accommodated at Lha’s Ahimsa House, staying with us for just over one week.
Hospice Group with Lha Staff Photo: Contact/Lha
The “Hospice group” consisted of eight participants from different walks of life. During their stay with us they were keen to learn about Tibetan culture and traditions, as well as Tibetan Buddhism and Medicine. They explored places of interest around Dharamshala including Tso Pema, or Lotus Lake, and Bir.
Dr Yeshi Dorjee talking on Tibetan Medicine Photo: Contact/Lha
Dr Yeshi Dorjee, Head of the Tibetan Medial and Astro Instute, Mcleod Branch, spoke to the group on Tibetan medicine and its practices; following his talk the group participated in a lively discussion. The Lha family is very grateful to the group for being part of the exchange programme and for their continuous support.
Lha could not provide the services we do without the support of our wonderful volunteers who help in so many ways and inspire us with their enthusiasm. Every month we ask a volunteer to share their story. This month Niccolo Carpini from France tells us his story. Volunteer Job at Lha:French teacher/Personal tutor/Conversation partner
A Great Challenge and a Great Experience
Energy, welcoming spirit, social work, amazing people, all of this and more is Lha. That’s why volunteering with Lha has been such a great experience. Last winter, while I was studying for one of my university exams, I got deeply in touch with Tibetan culture and history. So I’ve decided to get to know and help them as much as possible and try to learn more about the real situation and how people are living, I couldn’t just stand and stare at it, I felt that I had to make my little contribution, but how? After some research I stumbled onto the Lha website, I didn’t think twice – I applied for a volunteer position and I bought the flight tickets. Some months later I was there. My goal was to give all my support in the most useful way and I volunteered for every kind of position that could use my skills. For more than one month I taught the French beginners class, and did personal tutoring in English. I took some English classes, helped with the English conversation class and I also wrote for Contact agazine. As soon as I arrived at Lha I was warmly welcomed by all the staff and the students, I could see just big smiling faces all around me, that made me feel at home. All the students were so happy to learn and do their best, trying everyday to improve not just their language skills but all of themselves. In this way I could learn a lot from them, even
more than what I taught. Every lesson I was so inspired by their stories, their thoughts and their mentality and I made really good friendships with some of them. I was so happy seeing their French language skills improving day by day, after one
Niccolo with his students
month of lessons they made much bigger steps than I’d expected from my teaching. It was the first time for me to stand in front of people and teach, so it’s been a great challenge for me as well. All the Lha staff are doing a really huge and well managed work. Apart from teaching, they provide a lot of services for the community such as collecting clothes, mass cleanup days, publishing Contact magazine, the soup kitchen and so much more. Definitely, volunteering with Lha has been one of the greatest experiences of my life, I would suggest to anyone who would like to work in this kind of field to join this great association.
Contact magazine is published by Lha Charitable Trust
Lha Charitable Trust is an award-winning, grassroots, non-profit organisation and one of the largest Tibetan social work institutes based in Dharamshala, India. Lha has been striving to provide vital resources for Tibetan refugees, local Indian communities, and people from the Himalayan regions for 20 years. Lha was registered as a charitable trust by the Indian Government in 2005. For more information, please visit www.lhasocialwork.org To keep up to date with news of what’s happening in Tibet and in the Tibetan exile community, follow Contact magazine online at www.contactmagazine.net Facebook: Contact News / Twitter: Contact News Contact
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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: Near Library 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. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: McLeod Ganj, PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com
Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)
The TYC is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world. The TYC organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. 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 (TWA)
The 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 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
Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute
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.
Contact
WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113 EMAIL: info@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: www.tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong PHONE: 9882255047 EMAIL: ltwa1970@gmail.com
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. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org LOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd, Dharamshala HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 EMAIL: delek@bsnl.in hospitaldelek@yahoo.com
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 Rd, Dharamshala176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stss1999@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: 01892-223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org
Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)
SFT is an international NGO 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 Road, McLeod Ganj
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PHONE: 9882786875
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 conducting workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: CTA, 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, Opposite State Bank of India PHONE: 01892-220992, 988-2323-455 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org
The Kangra Distt. Red Cross Society
The Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation. WEB: www.redcrosskangra.org LOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244 EMAIL: sharmaopl12345@gmail.com
Gu-Chu-Sum Movement Association of Tibet is an organisation of former political prisoners of Tibet and former activists currently in exile that engages in their complete assistance from medical, financial, basic education and vocational training. It also organises lobby and advocacies about human rights abuses in Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com
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 EMAIL: director@tibetcharity.in
Norbulingka Institue
Centre for Tibetan culture with studios and artists at work. Temple, tour guides of the workshops, and gardens. LOCATION:Sidhpur, Dharamshala PHONE:9882144210 EMAIL: info@norbulingka.org WEB:www.norbulingka.org
OCTOBER 2018
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 lessons 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
Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)
Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a nongovernment, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population. WEB:www.lit-dharamsala.org LOCATION: Underground Hotel Akash, Jogiwara Road, Mcleodd Ganj, Dharamsala 176219
PHONE: (+91) 7590025915 EMAIL: learningandideasfortibet@gmail.com
Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)
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: tccrteam@gmail.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 that 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: 9857973026 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
EMAIL: tashu72004@yahoo.com
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 Centre are part of the Clean Upper Dharamshala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: cudpswm@gmail.com
Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)
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: nyingtob_ling@hotmail.com
volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea and many more benefits for volunteers. LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 9882077708 / 9882921477 EMAIL: wangduemiddleway@gmail.com Website: www.anec-india.net Facebook: www/facebook.com/anecpeace
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 / 9882673330
Tibetan Dubbing Society
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: 7831956680 / 08894435595
The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)
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
Tibetan Dubbing Society, founded in 2015, is a non-profit organisation working towards preserving Tibetan language through various forms of entertainment and dubbing animation movies into Tibetan language for Tibetan children. LOCATION: Near Norbulinga Institute WEBSITE: www.tibetdub.org EMAIL: savetiblang@gmail.com CONTACT: +91-8629837735
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: 4:00am (Rs 554), 6pm (Rs 580), 7:30 pm (Rs 570) Semi Deluxe Bus: 5pm (Rs 590) , 6:30pm (Rs 590) Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8:15 am (Rs 1243), 5:35pm (Rs 1275), 7:00pm (Rs 1275), 8:50pm (Rs1275) AC TATA: 5:50pm (Rs 972) AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs257) *from Dharamshala DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 2pm (Rs 560) 8pm (Rs 551); VOLVO: 7pm (Rs 1199) MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs358 *from Dharamshala / VOLVO: 11:30 pm (Rs 782) PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs 136) * from Dharamshala SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs 408), 6am (Rs 360), 7:50am (Rs 375), 8:am (Rs 520) 7:45 pm (Rs 363), 12pm (Rs 367) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 9:30pm (Rs455) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency. TA X I S 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 Rs15.
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OCTOBER 2018
activities and information UPCOMING EVENTS Nov 1 to 4: Dharmshala International Film Festival Venue: Upper Tibetan Children’s Village Nov 1 to 3: Dialogue between HH the Dalai Lama and Chinese Scientist on Quantum Effect Venue:Thekchen Choeling Tsuglakhang
BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works and Archives WEB: www.tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Mon-Fri: 10:30 - 11:45 am PHONE: 9882255047
Public Audience with HH Karmapa WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 01892-235307
YOGA AND REIKI Yoga & Reiki Courses
Location- Om Yoga Ashram,Near Dal Lake Mob- 9805693514 /981649432 Email - om.yoga@ymail.com web- http://www.omashram.in
Shivam Neelkant Yoga Kendra LOCATION: Upper Bhagsu PHONE: 098165-65138 WEB: www.shivamneelkant.yoga.com
MASSAGE Nature Cure Health Club
Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 07833047078 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com
Men-Tsee-Khang
LOCATION: Mcleod Ganj Branch Clinic, 1st floor, TIPA Road (2 mins from Main Square) PHONE: 98828-60505 EMAIL: therapycenter@men-tsee-khang.org
Om Massage Centre
LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, Opposite the Green Hotel, Mcleod Ganj PHONE:7018483961/9857999373 EMAIL: kunsangdolma75@gmail.com
Dorjee Spa LOCATION: Pema Thang Guest house, Hotel Bhagsu Road PHONE:9816393673 / 9857108408 WhatsApp: 9816393673
Contact
MEDITATION Ocean of Harmony
Taught by an experienced and qualified coach WEB: www.oceanofharmony.org PHONE: (+91) 99798-94585 EMAIL: ohlifeandwellness@gmail.com
Tushita Meditation Center WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info
Shivan Neel Kanth Yoga
WEBSITE:www.shivamneelkant.yoga.com LOCATION: Bhagsu Nag, Near High Sky PHONE: 09816565138 EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in
Om Meditation Ashram
Location-Om Yoga Ashram,Near Dal Lake Mob-01892 220333 /9805693514 web - www.himalayanashram.com
COOKING
Lha Tibetan Cooking Classes - for groups LOCATION: Lha Soup Kitchen, Temple Rd, Just below the Dalai Lama’s temple HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-220992
Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms Rita Kapoor LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592-06586
Indian Cooking Classes
LANGUAGES Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo Translators Program LOCATION: Rato Chuwar Labrang, Phuntsok Gatsel Session Road Hours: 10:45-5pm Email: lrztp.manager@gmail.com
REETA THAKUR HINDI CLASSES Location: Near Dal Lake Mob - 9816494732 Tibetan Language
LOCATION: The Tibetan Library *see Buddhist Philosophy Listing
Hindi Lessons with Kailash
LOCATION: Hotel India House, Bhagsu Rd PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947
Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken LOCATION:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Rd PHONE: 8679502538 / 98820-04965 EMAIL: contact@esukhia.org
Sanskrit Language Study Program at Vikramashila Foundation India (VFI) Location: Vikramashila center, 1st flr, Ketan Lodge,Jogiwara road, McleodGanj, Dharamshala, H.P Email: vikramashilafoundation@gmail.com
ART AND MUSEUMS Tibet Museum
LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm
LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 07833047078 / 0988230136 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com
Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression
Lhamo’s Kitchen: Tibetan Cooking Classes
The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)
Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes
Kangra Art Museum
LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719
LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Road HOURS:10:00am - 4:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in
COMPUTER CLASSES Tibetan Career Centre, Dharamshala LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj HOURS: 9:00am-6pm PHONE: 9882321424 /9880969175 Email at : yesheadconsultant@tibet.net
Lha Charitable Truse
LOCATION: Near Dolma Chowk, Mcleod Ganj PHONE: 9882323455 / +91 (0)1892 -220992 WEB: www.lhasocialwork.org
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LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm
WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com
LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm
Men-Tsee-Khang Museum
LOCATION: Near CTA, Gangchen Kyishong PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113 EMAIL: info@men-tsee-khang.org HOURS: 9am-5pm. Closed on Sun, 2 and 4th Sat
Center for Living Buddhist Art WEBSITE: www.livingbuddhistart.com EMAIL: sarikalochoe@hotmail.com
PHONE: 9418655401 HOURS: 9 am- 5 pm LOCATION: Khanyara Road
OCTOBER 2018
activities and information HEALTH SERVICES Perfect 32 Dental Clinic Dr Natasha Mehra LOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 09218742046 EMAIL: perfect32dentalclinic@gmail.com Tibetan Physiotherapy Clinic Specialised in Muscle and Joint Pain LOCATION: Near Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 HOURS: 10am - 5pm (Appointment Bases) PHONE: 9882322783 / 9882321532 EMAIL: jigten17@yahoo.co.in WEBSITE : tibetanphysiotherapy.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 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: Below Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113 EMAIL: info@men-tsee-khang.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: 7833047078 / 9882320136 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com Dr Tandon Advanced Dental Orthodontic & Implant Centre Location: Opp. AP Travels, Mcleod Ganj Phone:9418462936 Email: dr.rahultandon@gmail.com
Tibet-Related Websites News:
tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exile phayul.com -Phayul is published in Dharamshala,has opinion, reviews, photos, etc contactmagazine.net - Contact magazine online news rfa.org/english/news/tibet - Radio Free Asia’s mission is to provide accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free press voatibetanenglish.com - Voice of America’s Tibet pages - VOA is an international multimedia broadcasting service funded by the US government thetibetpost.com - Tibet Post International online news tibetexpress.net - Tibet Express online news guardian.co.uk/world/tibet - the UK Guardian newspaper’s Tibet pages scmp.com/news/china - the South China Morning Post – one of the more independent news sources in China
News, information and campaigning:
dalailama.com - for broadcasts of His Holiness’s teachings, his schedule and information about Tibet and the Dalai Lama tchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a nongovernmental organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracy tibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-governmental organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from China studentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independence tibetanreview.net - news, opinions, reviews and information freetibet.org: - UK-based campaigning organisation, also a good news source savetibet.org - Website of the International Campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projects tibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people tibetanjournal.com - Tibetan Journal - news, reviews and opinions
Writings:
highpeakspureearth.com/category/woeser - occasional translations of Woeser’s enormously popular blog – Woeser lives in Beijing and is continually harassed by the Chinese government for her courageous writings.
DHARAMSHALA CONTACTS Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189 Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTA Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. Phone: 222 053,223 381 Kangra Airport: 01892-232374
Contact
Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892221034 Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892265026 Police Superintendent: 01892222244 Police Contact Information Location: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in
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Cantt. area. Phone: 221 483 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
OCTOBER 2018
advertisements
Our specialty: Chocolate Vegan cake, Gluten free cake, Fresh Coffee Beans, cappaccino, Chocolate chilli lollipop 9am to 7pm - Closed on Monday
To advertise here, Contact Lha office at Temple Road, McLeod Ganj Or Call on our number 9882323455 Price of advertisements depend on the size of your Ad
Below “Black Magic Hotel” on Jogiwara Rd -Map#4 HANDMADE RECYCLED DIARY WHOLE SELLER SHOP
Contact us for readymade and custom order diaries and journal, notebook and sketchbook leather cover Opp. to India house bhagsu road, Mcleog Ganj Facebook page : Lobsang diaries Contact no : 9882861220 / 7018447280 Opening time : 10:30am to 9:00pm
8 AUSPICIOUS HIM VIEW HOTEL
8 beautiful rooms with balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed! Phone: 01892-220567 Cell: 9418236603 Jogiwara Rd (Map #12) Email: tseringd@aushimview.com
Nature Cure Health Club
Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map #23 Mobile: 07833047078 /09882320136 / Email: mahinder_m@ hotmail.com 20+ yrs’ experience: Swedish massage courses & treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment, reflexology treatment, SPA, Singing Bowl Treatment and many more!
TO POST YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE Call on our number - 9882323455
TO POST YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE Call on our number - 9882323455
Contact
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OCTOBER 2018
advertisements
Contact
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OCTOBER 2018
advertisements Map not to scale
Map of McLeod Ganj showing locations of places of interest
BHAGSU NAG 16
See advertisement pages for details of advertisers TIPA
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DHARAMKOT
27
26
Vipassana Centre
Naddi Village Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)
15
Tushita Centre
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MAIN SQUARE
3
McLEOD GANJ 25 Main Bazaar
27
Cantt Police Post
6
23
4
20
28
24
1
12
11
10 5
Lha
29 14
2
13
Road to Dharamshala
1. Lha Headquarters and Tibet Fair Trade 2. Namgyal Cafe 3. Common Ground Cafe 4. Dr Mobile, Woeser Bakery 5. Black Tent Cafe 6. Carpe Diem Restaurant 10. Perfect 32 Dental Clinic 11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture 12. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel 13. Ahimsa House and Lha Soup Kitchen 14. Chonor House 15. Lhamo’s Croissant 16. Shivam NeelKanth Yoga Kendre
17. Central Tibetan Administration,Tibetan Parliament-in-exile, Tibetan Library 18. LRZTP Tibetan Language Programme 19. Tibetan Museum and Temple 20. Tibetan Handicraft Centre 21. Taste of India 22. SnowLion Custom Tattoo 23. Nature Cure Health Club 24. Dr Tandon’s Advanced Dental 25. Smile Dental Clinice & Implant Center 26. Himalayan Yoga Retreat 27. Om Massage Centre 28. Chapri Handicrafts 29. Dorjee Spa
Dr Natasha Mehra @ Perfect 32 Dental Clinic Location: Near Hotel Mount View Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Map #10 Email: perfect32dentalclinic@gmail.com /Call: 09218742046 Website: www.perfect32dentalclinic.in
LOCATION: UpperBagsu, next to Namaste Cafe & behind Reggae Cafe Yogi Shivam has 28 years of yogic practice experience from from his master Dooni Nath Babaji! Daily Yoga - 7 am to 9:30 am Website: www.ShivamNeelkantyoga.com Email: yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in Phone: +91 9816565138
Facebook: Shivam Neelkanth Yoga Kendra
Contact
Road to Dharamshala
Location: First floor opp. Municipal Parking near HH Dalai Lama Temple #Temple Road • Extensive vegtarian menu • The best pizza in Mcleod Ganj • Good music and friendly staff Open every day from 7am to 8:30 pm Mobile: 7018919310 (Map#2)
NEED A DENTIST?
Daily meditation @ 11:30 am
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Shifted to New Location!
For all your dental requirements under one roof, in a sterile and state of the art clinic
YOGA TEACHER TRAINING May 7- 30, 2018 200Hour / One Drop Meditation with Yogi Shivam. Experience a taste of love. One drop of love, happiness & joy.
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Namgyal Cafe Pizza Place
Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese food and peaceful environment, just one minute from the Bus Stand, just behind Asian Plaza! (Map # 3)
Shivam Neelkanth Yoga Kendra
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BOOKWORM - THE COMPLETE BOOKSHOP is the oldest bookshop in Mcleod Ganj, where the Lonely Planet Guide (India) calls it the Best bookshop in town.
Location: Pemathang road, few steps from Dolma Chowk • •
Online shopping gives us only the books we already want. Bookshops draw us into the ones we didn’t know we wanted
Lhamo’s Croissant Vegetarian and Vegan Food
Bakery, Coffee shop, Gluten Free and Fresh seasonal juices and salads
Roof top terrace with stunning views
Bhagsu Road, just after Tibetan Settlement Office Map#15 22
OCTOBER 2018
lha news and advertisements Smile Dental Clinic & Implant Center
Oppo. Walia Medical Store Near State Bank of India ATM, Mcleod Ganj. MOBILE NO: 7018354594 / 8629011445 Map#25 website: smiledentalclinicmcleodganj.com
Meditation Intensives Meditation Therapies Intensive Yoga Courses/Retreats Stress Management Integrated Healing Therapies Wellness Retreats
To advertise here, Contact Lha office at Temple Road, McLeod Ganj
Contact
Ocean of Harmony Programmes for Wellbeing For upcoming events, visit www.oceanofharmony.org For intensive trainings around the world (any country) contact: Shalu Patel (experienced & qualified life and wellness coach for international trainings)
Phone: (+91) 9979894585 Email: ohlifeandwellness@gmail.com
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OCTOBER 2018
Lha Charitable Trust is an award-winning, grassroots, non-profit organisation and one of the largest Tibetan social work institutes based in Dharamshala, India. Lha has been striving to provide vital resources for Tibetan refugees, local Indian communities, and people from the Himalayan regions for 20 years. For more information, please visit www.lhasocialwork.org VOLUNTEER AT LHA Let your stay in Dharamshala be more memorable Come join our English conversation class! If you have at least one week or one hour a day, you’re welcome to join our group of volunteers. Time: English Conversation Class (Mon-Fri) at 4pm – 5pm Venue: Lha office at main market mcleod, temple road, opposite SBI ATM
English Conversation Class
We are also looking for volunteers to teach these language classes (minimum one month) : French Beginner / German Beginner / Chinese Beginner/Computer Beginner **Teaching experience not necessary. We guarantee that you will love your new experience! Location: Lha office, opp. State Bank of India (ATM), Temple Road, McLeod Ganj Email: office@lhasocialwork.org volunteercoordinator@lhasocialwork.org Phone: 01892-220992 / 9882323455
Computer Classes To advertise call Lha office: 01892-220992
To advertise here, Contact Lha office at Temple Road, McLeod Ganj Or Call on our number 9882323455 Price of advertisements depend on the size of your Ad
Follow Contact website using the QR code!
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Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj Map #1
འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།
Contact Newsletter Managing Director Dorji Kyi Editor-in-Chief Jenny James Editor Choeyang Wangmo CONTACT US Phone: 91(0)1892-220992 Email:editor@contactmagazine.net Facebook: ContactNews Twitter: @ContactTibet Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamshala Phone: 222390 Email:ippdsala@gmail.com
Contact
or visit Lha office at
Circulation Manager Tenzin Sherab Published by Lha Charitable Trust Web:www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net www.samdhongrinpoche.com
OCTOBER 2018