Panel Discussion on «How important is Tibet Issue to India»

Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile hosted a panel discussion titled ‘How important is Tibet Issue to India’ at India International Centre, New Delhi on 11 November 2016.

Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile hosted a panel discussion titled ‘How important is Tibet Issue to India’ at India International Centre, New Delhi on 11 November 2016.

The panelists included Prof. Shrikanth Kondapali, Professor in Chinese Studies, Centre for East Asian Studies, JNU; Mr. Prem Das, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Sikkim; Mr. J. M. Mukhi, Former Legal Advisor, Ministry of External Affairs and Advocate of Indian Supreme Court; Mr. Rajiv Mehrota, Trustee, Foundation for Universal Responsibility of H.H. the Dalai Lama; and Mr. Thubten Samphel, Director of Tibet Policy Institute, CTA.

Deputy speaker and a few members of Tibetan Parliament were also among the attendees.

Speaking on the essence of Tibet’s culture, Mr. Mehrotra cited His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s frequent quote on the relationship of India and Tibet, “India is our guru (teacher) and we are your chela (disciples)” Illuminating the tireless work of His Holiness in the promotion of love, compassion, gender equality and communal harmony. He added that His Holiness has initiated measures to empower Buddhist nuns by encouraging them to pursue doctorates in philosophy.

Mr. Samphel addressed the gathering on several important topics including the status of Tibet, political history of Tibet, Tibet’s rich culture and tradition. He further stated that historically Tibet is an independent country. The discussion was followed by a Q&A session.

Delivering the valedictory speech, Deputy Speaker Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok urged the Indian panelists to share their opinions on the Indo-China policies considering the status of Tibet. He lamented the lack of information on Tibet’s historical status in world historical books and also expressed his sadness over the absence of Tibet in international political maps.

By:
tibetanparliament.org