From left to right: Shri Ashok Kumar Mehta, who facilitated the session, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration, Shri Om Prakash Tandon and Shri Sujeet Kumar gathered at the India International Centre Annexe.
New Delhi: On the evening of 21 October 2024, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration delivered a keynote address during a talk session titled ‘Charting Tibet’s Future: The Resolve Tibet Act, Strategies in Exile, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Legacy, and India’s Role.’
The event was hosted by the Foundation for Non-violent Alternatives (FNVA) in Lecture Room 1 at the India International Centre Annexe.
Among the distinguished speakers were Sikyong Penpa Tsering, who provided insights into the current state of Tibetan affairs, and Om Prakash Tandon, the founding trustee of FNVA. Major General Ashok Kumar Mehta facilitated the session, ensuring a constructive exchange of ideas, while Shri Sujeet Kumar, a former Member of Lok Sabha and former convener of the All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet (APIPFT), also participated in the discussion.
The discussion focused on the significance of the Resolve Tibet Act and its potential impact on the future of Tibet and the Tibetan exile community. Sikyong elaborated on the strategies being developed by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) to sustain and strengthen the Tibetan freedom movement in exile.
Sikyong emphasised the importance of the Tibet Policy and Support Act, highlighting its role in advocating for the rights and autonomy of the Tibetan people. He explained how the act provides a structured approach to the U.S. policy toward Tibet, reinforcing international support for the Tibetan cause and holding the Chinese government accountable for human rights abuses in Tibet. He stated, “The act supports the central Tibetan leadership, encouraging dialogue and collaboration with global partners to further the Tibetan cause.” He further articulated his vision, saying, “We aspire for a free and democratic Tibet, and we remain committed to peaceful resistance and the pursuit of justice.”
Additionally, Sikyong provided a concise overview of Tibet’s leadership history, emphasising the continuous leadership of successive Dalai Lamas since the 15th century. He clarified misconceptions surrounding Tibet’s sovereignty post-1913, explaining that Tibet maintained self-rule after expelling Chinese forces in 1912, following the fall of the Qing dynasty. He asserted, “No foreign country has ever directly ruled Tibet. While there have been instances of external influence, Tibet has never been under direct foreign control.”
Sikyong further narrated the deep historical connections between India and Tibet, highlighting India’s influence on Tibetan scripts and religion. He mentioned that, according to some historical accounts, the first king of Tibet was of Indian descent. Moreover, he expressed gratitude to the Indian government and people for their support of Tibetan refugees following the flight into exile led by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Sikyong also addressed the geopolitical and strategic significance of the Tibetan plateau, highlighting Tibet’s role as the source of major rivers, including the Yarlung Tsangpo and the Mekong, and expressed concern over China’s diversion of Tibet’s water resources, which affects downstream countries like India and those in Southeast Asia. He condemned China for failing to share hydrological data, leading to environmental and livelihood challenges for riparian nations.
A key highlight of the talk was the enduring legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in shaping the global movement for Tibetan freedom and the preservation of Tibetan culture and identity. Since his exile in 1959, His Holiness has been a vital figure advocating for the rights of the Tibetan people, promoting a message of compassion and non-violence. Sikyong Penpa Tsering stated, “His Holiness’ teachings have not only galvanised support within Tibet but have also inspired individuals and movements worldwide to stand up for justice and human rights.” He added, “His commitment to dialogue and understanding continues to resonate with the Tibetan cause.”
Sikyong underlined the significance of the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the ‘Roof of the World’, the ‘Third Pole’, or ‘Asia’s Water Tower.’ He noted, “The rivers originating from Tibet, such as the Yarlung Tsangpo, Machu, and Dzachu, have become the lifeline for hundreds of millions of people in Asia.” He pointed out that “two of the world’s oldest civilisations—the Indus Valley Civilisation and Chinese Civilisation—also rely on Tibet’s rivers.”
However, Sikyong expressed concerns about the ongoing mismanagement of Tibetan rivers by the Chinese Communist government, stating, “This situation poses serious threats to the environment and the livelihoods of millions downstream.” He warned of severe repercussions for the future, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect these vital water resources.
The session concluded with a Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage directly and ask questions. The event offered insights into the current political situation, the challenges faced by the Tibetan community, and the CTA’s plans for safeguarding Tibet’s future.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressing the audience.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressing the audience.
Glimpse of the talk session on Tibet.
Glimpse of the talk session on Tibet.
An attendee making his query after the conclusion of speakers talk.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering with Senior Researcher Tenzin Damdhul, V-TAG Members, and FNVA Team
