Dharamshala: The Department of Security, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), organised a two-day “Conclave of Tibetan Freedom Fighters” from 24 to 25 April at the Administrative Training and Welfare Society Centre in Dharamshala. The event aimed to honour and felicitate Tibetan freedom fighters for their lifelong dedication and service, during which they were awarded the Tibet Medal in recognition of their contributions to the Tibetan freedom struggle.

A total of 89 participants attended the conclave, comprising former Tibetan army personnel of independent Tibet, Tibetan resistance fighters, members of the former Lodrik (an organisation formed by former Tibetan guerrilla fighters in 1960), representatives of retired Dhanglob community, former political prisoners, and ex-security personnels of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s residence. The gathering reflected remarkable longevity, with the oldest participant aged 96 and the youngest 27.

The inaugural ceremony began with the ceremonial reception of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s portrait on stage. The chief guest and special guests offered mandala, followed by traditional ritual of invocation by monks of Nechung Monastery and the ceremonial lighting of butter lamps, the singing of Tibetan and Indian national anthems, and the serving of sweet rice and butter tea.

The event was attended by Chief Guest officiating Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra (Kalon of the Education Department), and Security Kalon Dolma Gyari. Special guests included Tibetan Justice Commissioners Dawa Phunkyi and Phagpa Tsering, Tibetan Parliamentarian Tenpa Yarphel, secretaries from various CTA departments, Keutsang Rinpoche, representatives from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and delegates from the three Tibetan traditional provinces.

In her address, Kalon Dolma Gyari highlighted that this first-of-its-kind conclave was organised as part of the celebrations marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birth anniversary. She emphasised that the gathering serves as a timely occasion to honour Tibetan freedom fighters and former servicemen who sacrificed for Tibet.

She extended felicitations to several individuals, including former members of the independent Tibet’s army. Among those recognised were Mingur (96), Thubrab (88), and Tashi (84). From Lodrik, four individuals aged 91; Ngawang Tsultrim, Kelsang Tsering, Sonam Tashi, and Pachen were honoured, along with Nyima Tashi (81), a former Dhapon representing the retired Dhanglob community.

Former political prisoners were also acknowledged, including Keutsang Rinpoche, who spent 20 years in Chinese prisons; Jampa Tenzin (12 years); Lobsang Yonten (over 20 years); and Phurba Pon, who endured more than two decades of imprisonment. Others honoured included Diring Ngawang (93), Ani Phuntsok Dolma, and members of the former bodyguards of His Holiness led by Sonam, as well as Ngarong Arti.

Kalon Dolma Gyari underscored that the conclave is a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Tibetan freedom fighters and all those who dedicated their lives to the Tibetan cause. Family members of prominent resistance leaders, including Andruk Tamdin Choekyi, daughter of Andruk Gonpo Tashi, and Tenzing Sonam, son of Lhamo Tsering, were also invited and recognised.

She further noted that during the Chinese occupation of Tibet, Tibetans resisted strongly and refused to surrender. Despite being forced into exile, their resistance continued even after His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived in India.

Speaking at the event, Andruk Tamdin Choekyi, shared reflections on her late father’s unwavering struggle and called for unity and strength among Tibetans. Tenzing Sonam expressed gratitude to the freedom fighters and paid tribute to Tibetan martyrs, while also screening a video message of his father recorded several years before his passing.

Chief Guest Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra expressed deep appreciation for the bravery and contributions of the freedom fighters, recalling personal family experiences of resistance during 1959 and honouring the sacrifices of unsung heroes. She echoed the call for unity and resilience among Tibetans.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Security Secretary Karma Rinchen, followed by a group photograph of all participants.

Subsequent sessions focused on discussions on preserving the legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and gathering feedback on the work of the Department of Security. On the second day, the conclave concluded with the presentation of a final recommendation report, which was approved by the participants.

During the closing ceremony, special Tibet Medals were awarded to freedom fighters and representatives in recognition of their service. Kalon Dolma Gyari reaffirmed her commitment to incorporating the recommendations into future initiatives in consultation with the Kashag.

She also elaborated on the historical significance of the Tibet Medal, noting its origins in early 20th-century during the British Tibet War medal recognition practices, symbolising Tibet’s independent legacy and honouring those who contributed to its cause.

The event also marked 37th birth anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama, Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Trinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo, also known as Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, celebrated with a cake-cutting ceremony and cultural performances by a local dance troupe.

On the morning of 27 April, the participants were granted an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, followed by a brief concluding ceremony of the conclave held in the courtyard of Tsuglagkhang in the presence of Security Kalon Dolma Gyari. The participants were also honoured with ceremonial Khatags by major Tibetan non-governmental organisation.