July 15, 2022
Uncategorized

Use of military force outdated, says Dalai Lama as India stares down China in Ladakh

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Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has once again advocated a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions between India and China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

Urging both countries to persist with dialogue to disengage troops and resolve the high-altitude stalemate, the Dalai Lama said, “India and China, the two populated neighbours should resolve this problem through talks and peaceful means. Use of military force is outdated.”

The spiritual leader’s remarks came ahead of his visit to Ladakh, where he is likely to spend over a month. His stay is expected to rile China further as it comes amid the lingering military standoff between Indian and Chinese troops at several friction points in eastern Ladakh.

READ | India, China discuss ‘complete disengagement’ along border

China accuses the Dalai Lama of indulging in “separatist” activities, however, the Tibetan spiritual leader insists that he is not seeking independence but “genuine autonomy for all Tibetans living in the three traditional provinces of Tibet” under the “Middle-Way approach”.

“Some Chinese hardliners consider me a separatist and a reactionary and always criticize me. But now, more Chinese are realising that the Dalai Lama is not seeking independence and only wishing China (to give) meaningful autonomy (to Tibet) and (ensure) preservation of Tibetan Buddhist culture,” the 87-year-old spiritual leader told reporters in Jammu.

Asked about China’s objection to his visit, the Dalai Lama said, “This is usual. The Chinese people are not objecting… more and more Chinese are showing interest in Tibetan Buddhism. Some of their scholars are realising that Tibetan Buddhism is very scientific. Things are changing.”

The Dalai Lama, whose real name is Tenzin Gyatso, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and is feted worldwide for his advocacy of independence for Tibet and other causes.

Earlier this month, Beijing criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for greeting the Dalai Lama on his 87th birthday, saying India should stop using Tibet-related issues to interfere in China’s internal affairs. However, India rejected China’s criticism and asserted that it is a consistent policy to treat the Dalai Lama as an honoured guest of the country.

The Dalai Lama, whose real name is Tenzin Gyatso, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and is feted worldwide for his advocacy of independence for Tibet and other causes.

(With PTI inputs)

— ENDS —



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