Goa: On the morning of 24 January, 2026, in regard to the telephonic communication with Kunchok Migmar, the Settlement Officer (TSO) of Dharamsala Himachal Pradesh and Jigme Tsultrim, Chief Representative Officer, South Zone, Banglore about the passing away of Kunchok Dorjee— a Tibetan resident of Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, temporarily visitor in Goa.
Responding promptly, the CRO visited the Forensic Medicine & Toxicology Department, mortuary block, of Goa Medical College to oversee the post-mortem process. He observed all standard protocols, including coordination with forensic staff and documentation. The examination was conducted thoroughly, confirming the cause of death in accordance with legal and medical requirements.
Later that afternoon, arrangements were finalised for the cremation of Kunchok Dorjee’s remains at the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) crematorium. A group of Tibetan community members representing the Tibetan Market Association of Baga and Calangute gathered to pay their respects, reflecting the strong communal bonds within the diaspora.
The ceremony incorporated traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals, including the recitation of the Bardo dewachen gyi monlam prayer, led by respected spiritual figure Chime Dorjee (Ngakpa) from Doeguling Settlement, who is presently the leader of camp 1. Prayers were offered for the deceased’s peaceful rebirth and shared moments of collective mourning, underscoring the cultural significance of such practices in preserving Tibetan heritage amid displacement.
This sequence of events was handled with sensitivity, ensuring both legal formalities and spiritual observances were honoured.
In the evening, the Chief Representative Officer (CRO) visited the Tibetan Refugee Artefact and Jewellery Market of Baga and Calangute. During the visit, he emphasised the importance of the upcoming 2026 Sikyong and Chithu elections, announcing that the Chief Election Commission would conduct preliminary voting on 1 February 2026. He urged all community members to participate in large numbers to ensure the success of the democratic process.
The CRO also followed up on the land issue concerning shopkeepers, noting plans for a subsequent visit to Delhi to meet with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs. On this occasion, he extended greetings to the newly elected President, Sonam Choedon, along with five new Board Members, encouraging them to engage more actively with the local administration and foster constructive ties. At the same time, he expressed appreciation to the outgoing President, Tashi Rabten, and the former board members for their dedicated service and contributions during their two-year tenure.
The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which grievances were heard and addressed.
-Report filed by Chief Representative Office, South Zone
