AHMEDABAD: Expressing their solidarity with the Tibetan freedom struggle by joining the flame of truth relay in Ahmedabad, Indian supporters, including Gandhians, said truth and freedom will definitely triumph over China’s repressive rule in Tibet.

Hundreds of people, including Tibetan students studying at Central University of Gujarat, members of Tibetan Market and Indian friends, received the relay on its arrival in the city on 11 October. A minute’s silence was observed to express solidarity with all those Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet.

Addressing the rally, Mr Karma Yeshi, a member of Tibetan Parliament, described the Chinese government’s rule in Tibet as a form of terrorism, as its repressive measures have pushed over 54 Tibetans to burn themselves to death since 2009. All the Tibetan self-immolators shouted slogans demanding freedom for Tibetans and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet.

A long time Tibet supporter, Mr P G. Jyotikar, also spoke by showing his solidarity with the just cause of Tibet. He stated that Tibetans need to keep alive their non-violence struggle for justice and freedom, adding that Tibet will win freedom.

Mr Davendra Parekh from Mahatma Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad also joined Tibetans and expressed his support to the cause. He stated that no rule of terror has last forever in this world, adding, China’s illegal occupation of Tibet is untenable and Tibetans will enjoy their freedom soon.

Mr Narendra Solanki, an advocate and staunch youth supporter of Tibet, also joined the rally and gave an inspiring speech. He said the Indian and Tibetan youths must join together to strengthen the Tibetan freedom struggle.

They signed a petition on Tibet to be submitted to the United Nations on 10 December.

Coinciding with the flame of truth relay in Gujarat, a prayer for world peace was organised at Gandhi memorial on 12 October.

The relay will leave for Gandhi Nagar, the capital city of Gujarat, today.