Press Release
We strongly condemn the arbitrary sentences imposed on the 30 Tibetans
involved in the recent protests in Tibet. The penalty imposed on the 30
Tibetans ranges from three years to life imprisonment for merely
exercising their freedom of expression. These sentences are
disproportionate to what the Chinese authorities say are the “crimes”
they committed.
These trials were not fair and transparent, did not follow the due
process of law and the accused were denied independent lawyers to
defend their case.
We fear that many such arbitrary trials will follow to lock up
all those Tibetans presently under detention. All such future trials
must be open and transparent. Those under trial deserve independent
lawyers who can defend their case without fear and favour.
Most importantly we urge the Chinese government to do away with
this pretence of a fair trial and release immediately all those
Tibetans presently under detention.
Dharamsala