31 March 2025
In a powerful display of solidarity, 46 Indian Members of Parliament (MPs) have signed a Joint Declaration reaffirming their unwavering support for the religious and cultural rights of the Tibetan people. The declaration underscores Tibetans’ fundamental right to determine the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama without external interference. This landmark initiative follows an intensive advocacy effort led by the Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India, according to a press release issued by the alliance earlier today.
The declaration asserts: “We come together to send a resounding message to China: we stand with the Tibetan people in support of their right to religious and cultural freedoms.”
The Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India, a coalition of leading Tibetan NGOs, worked closely with MPs throughout an advocacy week in New Delhi, stressing the urgent need to safeguard Tibetan religious traditions and cultural heritage. The initiative highlights the deep respect and admiration for His Holiness the Dalai Lama across India’s political and public spheres.
Several MPs publicly voiced their strong support for Tibet’s religious autonomy:
Raju Bista, MP (West Bengal): “His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s contributions to religious harmony and global peace extend beyond the Buddhist community. The authority to determine the next Dalai Lama rests solely with His Holiness and those he designates. My fellow MPs and I stand firmly with Tibetans in their pursuit of religious and cultural freedoms.”
Dr. Sasmit Patra, MP (Odisha): “The reincarnation system in Tibetan Buddhism is rooted in the continuity of the Dalai Lama’s noble legacy. The sole authority on succession matters lies with His Holiness and the Tibetan people—no external forces should interfere.”
Sujeet Kumar, MP (Odisha): “China’s attempt to control the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation is deeply ironic—an atheist regime dictating religious traditions. This is a direct assault on Tibetan culture and identity.”
Dr. Lobsang Yangtso, Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India: “The strong support from Indian MPs sends a clear message of solidarity to the Tibetan people. Their commitment to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s spiritual leadership strengthens our ongoing efforts.”
This declaration represents a crucial step in countering China’s attempts to manipulate Tibetan religious and cultural institutions. The Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India remains committed to ensuring that Tibetan religious rights are upheld at the highest levels of governance. Member groups within the alliance include the Tibetan Youth Congress, Tibetan Women’s Association, National Democratic Party of Tibet, Students for a Free Tibet-India, and the International Tibet Network.
India has long served as a sanctuary for Tibet’s exiled community. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Tibet’s government-in-exile, is headquartered in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama first set foot on Indian soil exactly 66 years ago, on 31 March 1959, after fleeing Tibet. Around 80,000 Tibetans followed their spiritual leader into exile, with many remaining in India to this day. The Tibetan diaspora has since expanded, with over 150,000 Tibetans now settled in approximately 20 countries across five continents.
India has played a pivotal role in supporting the aspirations of the Tibetan people under the leadership of the Dalai Lama. The Joint Declaration by Indian MPs is yet another reaffirmation of this enduring commitment to Tibet’s cultural and religious heritage.
Useful Links
The Office of Holiness the Dalai Lama
Central Tibetan Administration
National Democratic Party of Tibet
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 