Dharamshala: The Tibetan residents and sympathisers in Dharamshala gathered this afternoon at the Tsuglakhang to observe a prayer service to express their support and solidarity for the tragic loss of over a hundred lives and the many others injured in Tibet, following the catastrophic earthquake that struck Dingri region of Shigatse.
This mass prayer, organised by the Department of Religion and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration, began with a brief condolence remark from the Sikyong Penpa Tsering. After providing a brief overview of the extensive destruction and the tragic loss of life caused by the devastating earthquake, Sikyong expressed his views on the situation. He pointed out that, despite the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) repeated assertions regarding the successful implementation of its poverty alleviation policies in the region, the widespread damage—particularly to older infrastructure, including traditional homes—raises serious questions about the true effectiveness of these claims. The destruction starkly highlights the discrepancy between the PRC’s narrative and the reality on the ground.
Sikyong further expressed deep concern for the well-being of the Tibetan settlers in Dingri and surrounding areas. He stated, “Considering the region’s high altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level, it is inevitable that the people will face severe risks of freezing and endure harsh winter conditions, with temperatures likely to drop below freezing in the coming days. Without immediate and effective rescue and recovery efforts, the situation could become even more dire.”
Sikyong also expressed his sincere appreciation to his fellow Tibetans in Tibet who have surfaced in social media videos, specifically for their efforts to assist the victims. He called on diasporic Tibetan communities across the globe to hold prayer services in their respective locations, to mourn the losses and to pray for the swift recovery and resilience of those affected.
“It has also been scheduled that His Holiness the Dalai Lama will preside over a prayer ceremony tomorrow morning at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery to pray for the victims of this tragic disaster,” Sikyong concluded.
The prayer ceremony was attended by Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, Tibetan Justice Commissioner Tenzin Lungtok, Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra, Kalon Norzin Dolma, Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi, Public Service Commissioner Karma Yeshi, members of the Standing Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, as well as other Tibetan Parliamentarians based in Dharamshala, along with Secretaries and civil servants of the Central Tibetan Administration.
Additionally, a large number of Tibetan residents, members of the Himalayan communities, local sympathisers, and a few tourists joined the gathering to express their solidarity.
