Bomdila: Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration visited the Tibetans scattered around Bomdila, Gacham, Dirang and Tawang under the jurisdiction of the Bomdila Tibetan Settlement Office on 4 November 2024 in the afternoon, where he addressed the gathering.

Initially, Rabten Tsering, the Settlement Officer of Tenzingang and Bomdila, presented a brief annual report, after which the Sikyong delivered his greetings and address. In his speech, he said, “As I always strive to visit Tibetan settlements twice, I made my first visit in 2022, and this time, I got the opportunity to visit Tenzin Gang and Bomdila for the second time, coinciding with the inauguration of Guru Rinpoche’s monastery’s assembly hall.”

He further stated that, in general, there are 37 Tibetan settlements in India, and in foreign countries, particularly in the United States, there are about 29 states where Tibetans reside. While I visit these places, it’s not just about meeting Tibetan people but also involves meeting and advocating with many external dignitaries.

“You have placed your hopes in me by appointing me as Sikyong. We must work according to your wishes and primarily following His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s vision regarding political and social welfare; we must fulfil our responsibilities. I have visited various Tibetan settlements to maintain close connections with the public,” he said. He added that the public should cooperate and stay informed about Tibetan social issues through social media.

He stated that the 16th Kashag is planning and preparing for the future of Tibetan society with a long-term vision while rationally presenting Tibet’s cause to the world.

He then explained the Central Tibetan Administration’s Middle Way Policy and stated that there is no alternative to the Middle Way Approach for resolving the Sino-Tibetan conflict. Although dialogue with the Chinese government is necessary, he said it would be difficult given the Chinese President’s current policies. He also mentioned that inside Tibet, religious books and documents are being removed from libraries, and policies are being implemented to sinicize Tibetan youth, making current dialogue with the Chinese government extremely difficult. Therefore, he emphasised the need to appeal to the international community.

Similarly, he stated that while the U.S. government’s legislation regarding the resolution of the Sino-Tibetan conflict is cause for celebration, this law is not our final achievement but rather a step forward in resolving the Sino-Tibetan conflict. Although the Chinese government proclaims Tibet as a “socialist paradise” to the world, he noted that inside Tibet, we continue to witness numerous cases of self-immolation by Tibetans who have been driven to desperation.

He also explained how the Chinese government’s claim that Tibet is a part of China is untrue, emphasising that Tibetans must explain to others about Tibet’s religion, culture, history, and geographical situation. He stressed that it’s essential for young Tibetans to develop pride in their Tibetan identity from an early age.

Furthermore, he explained the 16th Kashag’s digital library project, the settlement relocation program, and the need for accurate demographic data. After his speech, he answered various questions from the public. Around 60 people from Bomdila and Gacham attended the event.

Afterwards, Sikyong visited Gontse Gaden Rabgyel Ling monastery in Bomdila for a religious visit and met with the monastery’s treasurer. During this official visit, Sikyong was accompanied by Additional Secretary Tashi Dickey and Uma Trinley from the Department of Home, CTA.