As the 90th Birthday of Dalai Lama approaches, he has revealed his plans of succession. But, as usual, China has intervened in Tibetan matters. It has added another page to the history of struggle between Tibetan Buddhism and the ruling Communist Party of China.
The Dalai Lama’s Succession
The previous 13 Dalai Lamas all took birth either in the year that their predecessor died, or a year later. They were mostly recognised as the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation when they were two or three years old.
The 14th Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso. He turns 90 this July 6. So far, he is the longest living of all the Dalai Lamas.
On Wednesday, the Tibetan spiritual leader affirmed that the sacred institution of the Dalai Lama will continue. He stated that only the Gaden Phodrang Trust will have the authority to recognise his future “reincarnation.” He declared that no one else can “interfere” in his succession plan. The Gaden Phodrang Trust is a non-profit organisation that was founded by the Office of the Dalai Lama in 2015.
China’s rejection of succession plans
China rejected the Nobel Peace laureate’s succession plan. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning spoke at a media briefing in Beijing. She said, “The Dalai Lama’s reincarnation must follow the principles of domestic recognition. It must incorporate the ‘Golden Urn’ process. Approval by the central government, in line with religious traditions and laws, is also required.”
Central Minister Rijiju backs Dalai Lama
India’s Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said that the devotees and followers of the Dalai Lama have a specific wish. They want the Tibetan spiritual leader himself to decide on his successor. “There is no need for any confusion on the Dalai Lama issue. People everywhere in the world believe in Buddhism and follow the Dalai Lama. They want him to decide on his succession. There is no need for me or the government to say anything. Who would be the next Dalai Lama, it will be decided by him,” Rijiju told reporters on Friday.
Rijiju is a practising Buddhist. Rajiv Ranjan Singh is a fellow Union minister. They are representing the Government of India at the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday celebrations in Dharamshala on July 6.
Central Tibetan Administration Attacks China’s Statement
Penpa Tsering is the president of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). He responded to China’s remarks on the succession of the Dalai Lama. He questioned Beijing’s claim over religious matters. This includes the selection of the next Tibetan spiritual leader.
Tsering said, “That’s for the Chinese government to decide. The government does not believe in religion. Do they want to interfere in the religious freedom of Tibetan people? They not only occupy our country but also impose many things on us. This includes the freedom to choose our own spiritual leader.
“So, that is very unfortunate, and the Chinese government always keeps saying something. They are saying that we broke from tradition. What tradition is the Chinese Government talking about? The Golden Urn? This was introduced only in 1793, late 18th century. There have been 8 Dalai Lamas before that. Are those not Dalai Lamas because there was no Golden Urn?”
China warns India to exercise caution
According to Press Trust of India (PTI), India was urged to ‘act cautiously’ on Tibet-related issues. This caution is advised to avoid its impact on the improvement of bilateral relations.
In a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said India should understand the 14th Dalai Lama’s nature. He emphasized that it is anti-China and separatist. India should also honour its commitments on Tibet-related issues.
Mao added India should exercise caution in its words and actions. It should stop interfering in China’s internal affairs with Tibet-related issues. India should also avoid impacting the improvement and development of the China-India relationship.
Mao reiterated China’s stand on the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama. It must comply with rigorous religious rituals. It also has to follow historical conventions. The process should be in line with domestic search. It includes lots drawn from a ‘golden urn’ and the central government’s approval.
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