When I was 17, I sling over a gun and run hither and thither along with my companions at the Tibetan Armed Resistance in Mustang. Said Jamyang Norbu (JN) at a talk in Toroton In Canada, which I looked up in Youtube. JN is one of Tibetan exile's most vocal advocate for Rangzen and no doubt a great political commentator, I had the fortunate to speak with him on Tibet issues.
By his look, he probably well past over his middle age. Based on my knowledge of Tibetan people's struggle, JN's contribution for the sustainability of the Tibetan people's movement, political awareness has been immeasurable giving the effort of Tibetan individual.
The more I read and listen to his thoughts and ideas on Tibet politics and, the more I respect him as great Tibetan. When listening to his speech at a Toroton in Canada, right before the Olympics in China, JN called for Tibetans to rise up and do whatever an individual is capable of doing for the Tibetan cause. He has a great vision and he is passionate and realistic in his goal for Tibetan independence. At the meeting JN outlined the possibility of China's downfall and Tibetan opportunity for a free country.
JN is not only a literary critic, he is a renowned political commentator, sometimes even transgressing the redline. Undeterred by any minor incidents of hostility and potential mob violence against his unanticipated comments and writings on HH the Dalai Lama's person and entourage , he set up Tibetan weekly newspaper in the early 90s, as a springboard for public discussion on contemporary Tibet issues. The paper become extremely popular, but editor's particular comments relating to the persons of HH the Dalai Lama, backfired. Probably he touched on the nerve of Tibetan people. As result of his open and bold commets, he was not only threatened but hassled in the Dharamsala streets. Elder Tibetan people jeered at him for his unholy comments fueled by rumor mongers . Eventually, "Mangtso' did not survive and subsequently Ani Machen institute lost its lustre.
The other day, in my conversation with a relative in South India, he excitedly reported to me, that JN came to Sera and gave talk to to the monks on the theme of "Rangzen". Surprisingly the monks, majority of them applauded his individual efforts in bringing awareness and education to the Tibetan masses on Rangzen. And of course there are few monks who appeared to be agitated with JN for his off the exile official and the Dalai lama's approach to solve Tibet issues.
True to his words, JN's tour to south India is aimed to reach out to the Tibetans people and remind them that "Rangzen" can not be belittled and forgotten. I believe JN learnt to carefully chose his words when talking of the Dalai Lama. He has finally understands it to his own advantage. For I noticed in his speech, he referred to Gyalwang Ripoche with sincere reverence and veneration. That goes well with the Tibetan people. JN is a true shining star, and he is a practical and action oriented man. Exile Tibetan needs more of such a patriotic and intelligent person and less of political demagogue, who is all talk ,no action.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Honorary citizenship
Tibet may not be recognized as a nation, but Tibet's temporal and spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is recognized as indisputable leader of the six million Tibetan. The upcoming Polish city Warsaw's conferment of honorary citizenship to the Dalai Lama is one of the numerous laurels recognizing Tibet leadership on international stage, unsurpassed by any leaders of a free nation.
Tibetan people across the three provinces in Tibet, tuned in to Tibetan international broadcaster, for this wonderful piece of information. As what is called, opinion leader or community leader in Tibet's rural, remote areas shares news and views of Tibetan in exile, particularly the activities of the Dalai lama to their fellow friends.
Each time when the profile the Dalai Lama's international stature raised high, so is the spirit of the Tibtan people in Tibet. Dalai Lama is almost identical to Tibet nation and Tibetan people. World recognition for the Dalai Lama is a matter of great prestige for the Tibetan people in general and the Tibetan movement in particular.
The Chinese government will expectantly rebuke, threaten polish city Warsaw for consequence with such a open defiance of China's anger. It will be another good media publicity for Tibet issue and probably the in unrest Xijiang. I am sure that media are dying to ask questions to the Dalai lama on events in East Turkistan. The Dalai Lama has tactfully issued an appeal letter to the Chinese government to restrain from their dealing with the uighers and send his prayers for the victims of the violence. But now he will come out into the world stage, in front of media and journalist, and the Dalai Lama needs to be prepared to voice his views and concern on the issues. This is where the Tibetan exile government needs to have a spokesman.
It is as i already wrote ones, a great public relation strategy, and the Tibetan exile government has not issued any formal statement on the Uigher protest, can they remain silent ?. The Dalai Lama has to walk on a tight rope, for both side, the Chinese and the Uigher can both be offended by a slight misstep by the Dalai Lama. His Holiness the Dalai Lama sometimes can be very direct and blunt in his address to the media and several misinterpretation already occurred, that the exile government has to frantically correct, as pointed out in an article by JN.
His Holiness the Dalai lama's foreign tour often bring tremendous attention to the issue ofTibet, and there is sufficient media interest on his charismatic personality and his appealing messages. Tibetan people inside Tibet followed closely, to the news of the Dalai Lama's engagement with Western nations, and this too keep up their hope for an eventual solution for the Tibet issue and to their plight. There is no doubt that after the conferment of the U.S congressional gold medal to HH the Dalai Lama in 2007, Tibetan peoples; hope and spirit were never so upbeat, and it had a ripple effect on the last year's massive protest in Tibet. The Dalai lama's congressional gold medal award DVD is a much sought after watch in Tibet. This simple event ignited the freedom fire of Tibetan people that engulfed the entire three Tibetan provinces.
By offering the honorary citizenship to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the polish people pays their deepest respect to this man of peace, who embrace universal peace and responsibility. It will be an honor for the War city, as stated by city council leader to recognize the Dalai Lama's role for world peace. May, HH the Dalai Lama live 1000 years !!!!
Tibetan people across the three provinces in Tibet, tuned in to Tibetan international broadcaster, for this wonderful piece of information. As what is called, opinion leader or community leader in Tibet's rural, remote areas shares news and views of Tibetan in exile, particularly the activities of the Dalai lama to their fellow friends.
Each time when the profile the Dalai Lama's international stature raised high, so is the spirit of the Tibtan people in Tibet. Dalai Lama is almost identical to Tibet nation and Tibetan people. World recognition for the Dalai Lama is a matter of great prestige for the Tibetan people in general and the Tibetan movement in particular.
The Chinese government will expectantly rebuke, threaten polish city Warsaw for consequence with such a open defiance of China's anger. It will be another good media publicity for Tibet issue and probably the in unrest Xijiang. I am sure that media are dying to ask questions to the Dalai lama on events in East Turkistan. The Dalai Lama has tactfully issued an appeal letter to the Chinese government to restrain from their dealing with the uighers and send his prayers for the victims of the violence. But now he will come out into the world stage, in front of media and journalist, and the Dalai Lama needs to be prepared to voice his views and concern on the issues. This is where the Tibetan exile government needs to have a spokesman.
It is as i already wrote ones, a great public relation strategy, and the Tibetan exile government has not issued any formal statement on the Uigher protest, can they remain silent ?. The Dalai Lama has to walk on a tight rope, for both side, the Chinese and the Uigher can both be offended by a slight misstep by the Dalai Lama. His Holiness the Dalai Lama sometimes can be very direct and blunt in his address to the media and several misinterpretation already occurred, that the exile government has to frantically correct, as pointed out in an article by JN.
His Holiness the Dalai lama's foreign tour often bring tremendous attention to the issue ofTibet, and there is sufficient media interest on his charismatic personality and his appealing messages. Tibetan people inside Tibet followed closely, to the news of the Dalai Lama's engagement with Western nations, and this too keep up their hope for an eventual solution for the Tibet issue and to their plight. There is no doubt that after the conferment of the U.S congressional gold medal to HH the Dalai Lama in 2007, Tibetan peoples; hope and spirit were never so upbeat, and it had a ripple effect on the last year's massive protest in Tibet. The Dalai lama's congressional gold medal award DVD is a much sought after watch in Tibet. This simple event ignited the freedom fire of Tibetan people that engulfed the entire three Tibetan provinces.
By offering the honorary citizenship to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the polish people pays their deepest respect to this man of peace, who embrace universal peace and responsibility. It will be an honor for the War city, as stated by city council leader to recognize the Dalai Lama's role for world peace. May, HH the Dalai Lama live 1000 years !!!!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Ban on Dalai Lama's protrait lifted?
Some of the exile Tibetan news outlets reported that the Dalai Lama's portraits are now allowed to display in some parts of Kham areas in Tibet. International broadcaster attempted to confirm the news, but so far with not much success. However, RFA's stringer Norbu Damdul in Australia learnt from his sources in Tibet, particularly the region, ?(where the ban on Dalai Lama's photo allegedly being lifted), that there was no mention of the Dalai Lama at all in all the meetings held in Kham Juro and Dangron.
Interestedly, a meeting of sort was held in several locality in Kham, where some Tibetan Chinese officials praised the Tibetan tradition and Tibetan language rooted in ancient heritage.
The news initially came from a monk, in South India, who told some exile media, including VOT, which without a second source or cross check, released the information and quoted by Phayul website lavishly.
Given the Chinese government's current vilification against the Dalai Lama, it is impossible that the Chinese would allow to display the Dalai lama's pictures in Tibet. The early report suggested that the Tibetans were very doubtful of the intention of Chinese government officials for such announcement. If ever there was such thing,then it is a 90 degree change of Tibet policy of Chinese government. In the event of such lift on the banned picture of Dalai Lama's , the world has plenty of reasons to advocate the Dalai lama's peaceful campaign for Tibet. This would also encourage more vocal expression and protest inside Tibet. Or Maybe, the Chinese officials testing the water.
Until now the Tibetans have been worshipping the Dalai Lama in secret, and allowing to display means open loyalty and respect , allegiance to the Dalai lama is officially permitted. Interestingly the vice president of Student for Free Tibet, Tendor la said, though he thinks that the information could not be verified, but if it turned to be true, then this policy must the make of a Central Bejing authorities, as he thinks no local authorities would arbitrarily act in such a way.
Just by using our common sense,there are plenty of reasons that the Chinese government either local or central would not lift the ban on the Dalai Lama picture.
1.Dalai Lama is a symbol of Tibetan identity and Tibet nation. Chinese government perceive anything that revive Tibetan identity is a threat to Chinese community party. The curb on Dalai Lama's picture required to be remain, so that the Tibetan masses would be less distracted from their goodwill of the communist party.
2.In the most recent concluded Sino Tibetan round of dialogue, the Chinese delegations boldly and very arrogantly rejected Dalai lama's leadership for the Tibetan people. It is very apparent that the Chinese officials try to downplay the significance of the Dalai lama in the Tibetan people's lives.
3.Dalai Lama in his march 10th, statement hit out against the Chinese goverment's policy, in a harsh tone, by comparing Chinese policy in Tibet brought "a hell on earth". Chinese leaders were seething by such a statement.
4. The Dalai Lama's popularity and influence is gaining in the west by leaps and bound, a exile leader who stay shoulder to shoulder with the leader of the world's most powerful nation, U.S. China has no intention and willing to give credit to the Dalai lama's reputation, by allowing to put back his pictures in Tibetan homes and monastery.
5. The Chinese local leaders, especially the TAR officials were making a living by accusing and attacking the Dalai lama element as separatist, as evidenced in letter and comments by a Tibetan veteran communist, who still live in Bejing. These scavengers , can not afford to lose their bowls by showing lenience to the Dalai Lama.
These are some simple and straightforward reasons, that tolarence to the protrait or any images of the Dalai Lama is impossible under the current Chinese leadership. Scholars and researchers pointed out the glaring fact that the Chinese wait the Dalai Lama to pass away, for as long as the Dalai Lama exist, so will be the importance and high profile of the Tibetan issue to stay intact.
Whether the unconfirmed news of the Dalai lama's banned picture is true and untrue is insignificant. What require to look in to the issue of Dala lama is simply an illustration of the Tibetan people's greatest yearn for freedom and their beloved spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.
The words around the Dalai lama's portrait, could have been circulated reflecting the intensity of Tibetan people's urge to see their leader or be blessed by the very presence of his portraits.
Simply put it is the Tibetan people's illusion.
What knows, if a local Tibetan in Kham, simply forwarded his wishes of Dalai Lama's picture to an exile, who without much thinking, believed it as a hard concret news from Tibet.
What if some Tibetan, just cooked up the information with the hope that the Tibetan people can now pay their respect and homage openly to the Tibetan's god king ?
This information has raised more questions than could possibly be answered.
Interestedly, a meeting of sort was held in several locality in Kham, where some Tibetan Chinese officials praised the Tibetan tradition and Tibetan language rooted in ancient heritage.
The news initially came from a monk, in South India, who told some exile media, including VOT, which without a second source or cross check, released the information and quoted by Phayul website lavishly.
Given the Chinese government's current vilification against the Dalai Lama, it is impossible that the Chinese would allow to display the Dalai lama's pictures in Tibet. The early report suggested that the Tibetans were very doubtful of the intention of Chinese government officials for such announcement. If ever there was such thing,then it is a 90 degree change of Tibet policy of Chinese government. In the event of such lift on the banned picture of Dalai Lama's , the world has plenty of reasons to advocate the Dalai lama's peaceful campaign for Tibet. This would also encourage more vocal expression and protest inside Tibet. Or Maybe, the Chinese officials testing the water.
Until now the Tibetans have been worshipping the Dalai Lama in secret, and allowing to display means open loyalty and respect , allegiance to the Dalai lama is officially permitted. Interestingly the vice president of Student for Free Tibet, Tendor la said, though he thinks that the information could not be verified, but if it turned to be true, then this policy must the make of a Central Bejing authorities, as he thinks no local authorities would arbitrarily act in such a way.
Just by using our common sense,there are plenty of reasons that the Chinese government either local or central would not lift the ban on the Dalai Lama picture.
1.Dalai Lama is a symbol of Tibetan identity and Tibet nation. Chinese government perceive anything that revive Tibetan identity is a threat to Chinese community party. The curb on Dalai Lama's picture required to be remain, so that the Tibetan masses would be less distracted from their goodwill of the communist party.
2.In the most recent concluded Sino Tibetan round of dialogue, the Chinese delegations boldly and very arrogantly rejected Dalai lama's leadership for the Tibetan people. It is very apparent that the Chinese officials try to downplay the significance of the Dalai lama in the Tibetan people's lives.
3.Dalai Lama in his march 10th, statement hit out against the Chinese goverment's policy, in a harsh tone, by comparing Chinese policy in Tibet brought "a hell on earth". Chinese leaders were seething by such a statement.
4. The Dalai Lama's popularity and influence is gaining in the west by leaps and bound, a exile leader who stay shoulder to shoulder with the leader of the world's most powerful nation, U.S. China has no intention and willing to give credit to the Dalai lama's reputation, by allowing to put back his pictures in Tibetan homes and monastery.
5. The Chinese local leaders, especially the TAR officials were making a living by accusing and attacking the Dalai lama element as separatist, as evidenced in letter and comments by a Tibetan veteran communist, who still live in Bejing. These scavengers , can not afford to lose their bowls by showing lenience to the Dalai Lama.
These are some simple and straightforward reasons, that tolarence to the protrait or any images of the Dalai Lama is impossible under the current Chinese leadership. Scholars and researchers pointed out the glaring fact that the Chinese wait the Dalai Lama to pass away, for as long as the Dalai Lama exist, so will be the importance and high profile of the Tibetan issue to stay intact.
Whether the unconfirmed news of the Dalai lama's banned picture is true and untrue is insignificant. What require to look in to the issue of Dala lama is simply an illustration of the Tibetan people's greatest yearn for freedom and their beloved spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.
The words around the Dalai lama's portrait, could have been circulated reflecting the intensity of Tibetan people's urge to see their leader or be blessed by the very presence of his portraits.
Simply put it is the Tibetan people's illusion.
What knows, if a local Tibetan in Kham, simply forwarded his wishes of Dalai Lama's picture to an exile, who without much thinking, believed it as a hard concret news from Tibet.
What if some Tibetan, just cooked up the information with the hope that the Tibetan people can now pay their respect and homage openly to the Tibetan's god king ?
This information has raised more questions than could possibly be answered.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Cry for Freedom
This teenager,Lobsang Nyndak just turned 18 and he was studying at Guru Tibetan Teacher's Training Institute. The institute was miles away from Chamdo city. A bold protest staged by three of Lobsang's friends early this year, gave the extra impetus for his rebellious thoughts. The subsequent Chinese crackdown and torture resulted death of Pema Tsepak, one of his relatives, and two other still being held in jail did not deter him . As a matter of fact, the Zogan incident was a turning point in Lobsang's life. He saw and he heard villagers whisper on the gallantry act of the trio youth. Pema Tsepak was holding the banned Tibetan national flag high up, and charged towards the police blockage in a most fearsome encounter. Even though, Lobsang did not involve in this protest. He has a deep sense of admiration and respect for three youngster's sacrifices. He secretly harboured an urge to follow their suit, and he was waiting for that moment.
A strange feeling of loneliness and sadness descended on him. His usual interesting on studies and education seemed immaterial to him. He skipped the class to find his own space and privacy to ponder on issues. He also can not put away the faces of his family away, so he called up home and inquired about their health. Upon learning the family members are in good health, especially his grandfather, with whom he shared the most intimate relationship, he set on his goal. Lobsang did not want to bother anyone else, except for himself. He can not read any of his friends mind and he also doubt their determination to venture on such a risky mission. His purpose was to vent his own feelings and take responsibilities of his own action.
On a Sunday on June 28,2009 it was school off day. Students from his teacher's training institution take the day off to pay visit to their relatives and friends at nearby Chamdo city. Lobsang too wanted to go for a sightseeing and meet some his acquaintances in Chamdo, with the ultimate mission for the trip still hidden to himself. Lobsang accompanied another student friend and they toured the city and dropped at several places to meet friends. As morning gives way to afternoon, and no sooner they have return to school. Back to where they were supposed to be . But Lobsang's determination was as solid as a rock and his mission was too sacred to pass up.
Pleading his companion to depart in advance for the school, as he would take some time for other business to attend, Lobsang with dogged determination set upon on his risky business. It was crowded market, and one of the busiest in the Chamdo city. Pulling out his slogans written on white sheet and a symbol of Tibetan national flag with spattered of inks on a white clothes, he rummaged through streets of Toto Gan, shouting "Free Tibet" slogans and "China quit Tibet".
onlookers stunned by the determination of this lone protester. But no onlookers seemed to understand the very act of defiance. After doing a round of protest and shouting at his loudest he entered into a vicinity of a police station, in an apparant act surrendering and confession. Then it was there, he was nabbed, as told by witness on the spot.
The next day, the institute of teacher's training in Guru learnt of his protest and arrest. Six students mainly from Tsawa, came to Chamdo to plead authorities to release Lobsang, on the ground that he is good student. The group also warned police to protest, if he is not released.
Police chided the students and told them to stay away from this or face problem. The youngsters, after returning to their school, attempted to mobilize more students, but the Principal of the institute foiled the plan for further protest.
Meanwhile. Lobsang's parents, came to visit him. Police jailed Lobsang in Taza Thong police station as saw by newly released prisoner. His parents were denied the visitation and they had sought comfort with hope of their clothes and food staff and money be delivered to Lobsang by the security guard.
Lobsang was in jail without a formal hearing of his case, which is a usual practice in Tibet. He had no remorse, and as a matter of fact, he is at peace that finally he fulfilled his own dream of standing up against the mighty China. The effectiveness and organization of the protest was secondary to him. What mattered most for him was his cry for freedom. Eventually, he joined the ranks of living Martyrs.
A strange feeling of loneliness and sadness descended on him. His usual interesting on studies and education seemed immaterial to him. He skipped the class to find his own space and privacy to ponder on issues. He also can not put away the faces of his family away, so he called up home and inquired about their health. Upon learning the family members are in good health, especially his grandfather, with whom he shared the most intimate relationship, he set on his goal. Lobsang did not want to bother anyone else, except for himself. He can not read any of his friends mind and he also doubt their determination to venture on such a risky mission. His purpose was to vent his own feelings and take responsibilities of his own action.
On a Sunday on June 28,2009 it was school off day. Students from his teacher's training institution take the day off to pay visit to their relatives and friends at nearby Chamdo city. Lobsang too wanted to go for a sightseeing and meet some his acquaintances in Chamdo, with the ultimate mission for the trip still hidden to himself. Lobsang accompanied another student friend and they toured the city and dropped at several places to meet friends. As morning gives way to afternoon, and no sooner they have return to school. Back to where they were supposed to be . But Lobsang's determination was as solid as a rock and his mission was too sacred to pass up.
Pleading his companion to depart in advance for the school, as he would take some time for other business to attend, Lobsang with dogged determination set upon on his risky business. It was crowded market, and one of the busiest in the Chamdo city. Pulling out his slogans written on white sheet and a symbol of Tibetan national flag with spattered of inks on a white clothes, he rummaged through streets of Toto Gan, shouting "Free Tibet" slogans and "China quit Tibet".
onlookers stunned by the determination of this lone protester. But no onlookers seemed to understand the very act of defiance. After doing a round of protest and shouting at his loudest he entered into a vicinity of a police station, in an apparant act surrendering and confession. Then it was there, he was nabbed, as told by witness on the spot.
The next day, the institute of teacher's training in Guru learnt of his protest and arrest. Six students mainly from Tsawa, came to Chamdo to plead authorities to release Lobsang, on the ground that he is good student. The group also warned police to protest, if he is not released.
Police chided the students and told them to stay away from this or face problem. The youngsters, after returning to their school, attempted to mobilize more students, but the Principal of the institute foiled the plan for further protest.
Meanwhile. Lobsang's parents, came to visit him. Police jailed Lobsang in Taza Thong police station as saw by newly released prisoner. His parents were denied the visitation and they had sought comfort with hope of their clothes and food staff and money be delivered to Lobsang by the security guard.
Lobsang was in jail without a formal hearing of his case, which is a usual practice in Tibet. He had no remorse, and as a matter of fact, he is at peace that finally he fulfilled his own dream of standing up against the mighty China. The effectiveness and organization of the protest was secondary to him. What mattered most for him was his cry for freedom. Eventually, he joined the ranks of living Martyrs.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Act of defiance.
(The following informations lack details and i have penned it down as told by the witness in a hurry,)
A middle aged man by the name of Youten Gyaltso around 40, presumably from Kham Gonjon, staged a demonstration in the City of Chamdo in Kham .
A few days ago on July 17th, according to the witness, a lone Tibetan protester shouted "Free Tibet" at a place called Then Chen Gon Chang in the middle of Chamdo city .The protester dressed in Chupa, Tibetan tradition dress threw up a bunch of leaflets in the air and running around shouting "Free Tibet". One of such a leaflet scattered around obtained by the witness contained slogans such as "We want Free Tibet" in Tibetan language and besides the protester revealed his identity such as name and place of birth on the leaflets .
The witness said no sooner there was a big convoy of police vehicles rushed to the scene with sirens blaring, which could be heared in the entire Chamdo city. The protester was finally over powered and arrested by policemen after about 10 minutes into the incident. The witness saw a kind of melee ensued with the arrival of police force on the scene, many Tibtans were weeping, as people running from all directions in a chaotic situation. After the incident, security were beefed up in Chamdo at all the adjacent roads, with police guards stationed all over.
Oh, my Tibetan brother, your yearning for freedom rings...
A middle aged man by the name of Youten Gyaltso around 40, presumably from Kham Gonjon, staged a demonstration in the City of Chamdo in Kham .
A few days ago on July 17th, according to the witness, a lone Tibetan protester shouted "Free Tibet" at a place called Then Chen Gon Chang in the middle of Chamdo city .The protester dressed in Chupa, Tibetan tradition dress threw up a bunch of leaflets in the air and running around shouting "Free Tibet". One of such a leaflet scattered around obtained by the witness contained slogans such as "We want Free Tibet" in Tibetan language and besides the protester revealed his identity such as name and place of birth on the leaflets .
The witness said no sooner there was a big convoy of police vehicles rushed to the scene with sirens blaring, which could be heared in the entire Chamdo city. The protester was finally over powered and arrested by policemen after about 10 minutes into the incident. The witness saw a kind of melee ensued with the arrival of police force on the scene, many Tibtans were weeping, as people running from all directions in a chaotic situation. After the incident, security were beefed up in Chamdo at all the adjacent roads, with police guards stationed all over.
Oh, my Tibetan brother, your yearning for freedom rings...
Tibetans Risk Lone Protests
2009-07-29
Chinese security forces fail to prevent recurring demonstrations protesting China's rule in Tibet.
AFP
A Chinese policeman stands guard in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, June 20, 2008.
KATHMANDU—Two Tibetans recently staged separate protests against Chinese rule in Tibet, defying security crackdowns and braving the near-certainty of harsh treatment in detention, Tibetan sources said.
Sporadic demonstrations, both by individuals and by small groups, have continued in the region for more than a year following widespread unrest that began in the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, in March 2008 and spread to Tibetan-populated areas of China.
Protests are quickly dispersed by Chinese security forces, with detained protesters often beaten, sometimes severely, according to reports.
“On June 28, a young Tibetan, a student at the Guru Teacher Training School in Dzogong [county, of the Chamdo prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region] was detained for protesting in Chamdo city,” said a Tibetan man now living in Canada, citing area contacts.
The student, Lobsang Nyendrak, 18, had walked to town with a friend earlier in the day, the man said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Nyendrak then urged his friend to return alone to the school, saying he had “other business” to attend to.
When his friend left, the source said, Nyendrak pulled out a hand-made banner along with a cloth bearing the colors of the banned Tibetan national flag. He then walked through the the local market, calling out “Tibet is independent!” and “China quit Tibet!”
“He walked straight toward the police station in Chamdo, calling on Tibetans to ‘rise up’ behind him,” the source said.
Nyendrak was then immediately detained, according to witnesses.
Stadium protest
When fellow students learned next day that Nyendrak was being held, six of them went to Chamdo to plead for his release, the source said.
Turned away by police, the students returned to the school and began to organize a wider protest, but the school’s principal blocked their plans.
Then, on July 17, a man named Yonten Gyatso—aged about 40 and a native of Dege in Kham—staged a solitary protest in a Chamdo sports stadium, said the source.
“He ran a complete circuit of the stadium while displaying fliers,” the man said. “The people who were gathered there cheered him on, and there was some commotion. In the fliers, the man gave his name and called on others to protest for the cause of Tibet.”
Achi Dolma, a Tibetan woman living in New York, confirmed the account, also citing sources in Chamdo.
“A convoy of police vehicles rushed to the scene with sirens blaring,” Dolma said.
“A melee ensued, with Tibetans weeping and people running in all directions,” she continued. “The protester managed to escape in the confusion.”
“Afterward, security was strengthened in Chamdo on the roads nearby, and police were stationed all over.”
The protester was finally detained by police on July 21, she added.
Reached for comment on July 22, local police confirmed there had recently been “some incidents” in Chamdo.
“The persons responsible were not locals, but came from outside the area,” a police spokesman said, adding that one person had been detained the night before and that another, “a student from Tsawa Dzogong,” was already being held.
Original reporting by Dorjee Damdul for RFA’s Tibetan service. Tibetan service director: Jigme Ngapo. Translations by Karma Dorjee. Written in English by Richard Finney. Edited by Sarah Jackson-Han.
Copyright © 1998-2009 Radio Free Asia. All rights reserved.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tibetan Pride
Woeser's blog is the blog that I cant help revisiting. She is such a prolific Tibetan writer, i am awed by the volume of postings on a wide range of topics. Giving my limited proficiency in Chinese language I can not keep up with her daily entries. But there are plenty of thoughtful short articles or piece that attracts me most. Woeser's writings often makes reader to pause a moment to think and reflect on the state of our affairs. It is no surprising that the Chinese officials ousted her from a prestigious post in Lhasa, lest for her searing patriotism reach far and wide among Tibetan official cadres. Now based in Bejing and as professional blogger she churns out reports and opinion pieces on various social issues and particularly matters related to Tibet on daily basis.
Her blog gained its popularity and it has become a portal of news worthy informations for commentators, analysts and journalists world wide.
The Chinese officials might never thought that this is going to be outcome of her expulsion. In the past numerous of her blog sites were shut down. But she managed to host them again reaching out to an ever increasing readerships . I assume that her blog is accessible within China and Tibet, so Chinese educated Tibetan who has access to internet might be aware of her blog and browsing its content stealthily. Mainly written in Chinese Mandarin, i wonder the kind of impact her postings has on China's millions of Internet users. She has a sterling reputation as a writer of integrity in Tibetan exiles, and she was conferred several awards to that effect. I assume she has earned her spot even among the Chinese intelligentsia. A petite bespectacled Tibetan woman with the heart of lion has sparked a silent revolution and its effect on the conscious of the readers is unfathomable.
I came upon on one of her recent pieces titled " Being a Tibetan, what is to be proud of " (This is what i interpret and it could be wrong). Based on my limited knowledge in Chinese, I tried hard to read word by word and get the gist of her deliberations. Woeser argues that being a Tibetan there is nothing to be proud of, giving the current state of affair. She said the ancient culture, the ancient language, and the ancient customs we practise and cling to so dearly, was the legacy of our forefathers. The present Tibetan generations havent contributed anything worth mentionings. What will be our legacy to the future generations? so it is the posterity that will determine our Tibetan pride. (Giving the place and circumstance under which she writes, i think we need to interpret her ideas not literally but figuratively). To be continued....
Her blog gained its popularity and it has become a portal of news worthy informations for commentators, analysts and journalists world wide.
The Chinese officials might never thought that this is going to be outcome of her expulsion. In the past numerous of her blog sites were shut down. But she managed to host them again reaching out to an ever increasing readerships . I assume that her blog is accessible within China and Tibet, so Chinese educated Tibetan who has access to internet might be aware of her blog and browsing its content stealthily. Mainly written in Chinese Mandarin, i wonder the kind of impact her postings has on China's millions of Internet users. She has a sterling reputation as a writer of integrity in Tibetan exiles, and she was conferred several awards to that effect. I assume she has earned her spot even among the Chinese intelligentsia. A petite bespectacled Tibetan woman with the heart of lion has sparked a silent revolution and its effect on the conscious of the readers is unfathomable.
I came upon on one of her recent pieces titled " Being a Tibetan, what is to be proud of " (This is what i interpret and it could be wrong). Based on my limited knowledge in Chinese, I tried hard to read word by word and get the gist of her deliberations. Woeser argues that being a Tibetan there is nothing to be proud of, giving the current state of affair. She said the ancient culture, the ancient language, and the ancient customs we practise and cling to so dearly, was the legacy of our forefathers. The present Tibetan generations havent contributed anything worth mentionings. What will be our legacy to the future generations? so it is the posterity that will determine our Tibetan pride. (Giving the place and circumstance under which she writes, i think we need to interpret her ideas not literally but figuratively). To be continued....
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Loud and Clear
Emerging out of my office and on the way to home, I was trudging along an alley to the Metro stations, when I heard this clamour from a roadside. Intrigued, I followed the direction from I hear this boot of slogans emanating. Then I saw a line of people stretched out at a corner of the roadside. A middle aged woman blaring out through a megaphone "Free Press "and the group joined in " In Iran" ,albeit in a weak chorus. The slogans was not deafening but audible. What helped most for the group was some hand made posters and banners screaming out their grievances in the troubled region of Iran. Without those signs, it would be a simple crowd of people, staring and standing with a sense of direction.
It was not a large protest, and the people present appeared not as enthusiastic and passionate as they should be. Standing along in one single file at the corner of the road, some even have their hands in pocket, and give the impression of reluctance for what they are doing. I doubt such a gathering could send out their message loud and clear to the onlookers and those people who drives by . This is by no means the perception of a spectator.
What I was witnessing reminded me of similar Tibetan people's protest against China during key anniversary or the visit of Chinese dignitaries. Tibetan protest in Washington D.C or in other parts of the country for most of the time have a considerable turnout of people.
But the protest can be more effective and more powerful if organizers and people involved could ensure to implement few things. The purpose of any demonstration is to draw attention and get media publicity for Tibetan people's flight. For that to happen, the size of the event matters hugely, therefore the event organizer should have the wisdom of making best use of the people present. Wherever there is a crowd and there is a natural sense of curiosity. Even a small group of people can enhance its effectivensss by handouting Tibetan national flags, and banners to each and every protesters.
There need to be a unified slogans and simple strategy to serve the goal of the protest. For example, protesters should raise the banner that resonates the protest and , or wave the Tibetan national flag or anything that symbolizes the issues. Instead of punching their fist in the air, palanquins, banner and flags were more symbolic and it sends out a clear and loud message, besides adding to the grandeur of the protest.
Creative and meaningful slogans could capture the lens of camera man and the eyes of media person. During 2008 Tibetan uprising, Tibetan college students in China showed their solidarity by observing a candle light vigil and a popular hand scripted slogan "IN SOLIDARITY WITH TIBETAN PEOPLE" in Tibetan language. This few simple words put together says a lot for the purpose of the sit in.
in Switzerland, a family dedicated their time to draw a catchy and attractive caricatures in a big white screen. Capturing the essence of China's brutality in Tibet in an artistic way. Then there was the trade mark slogans by Students for Free Tibet that mimic the Chinese official Olympic slogans " One World One Dream, Free Tibet". And not to forget the shoe throwing spectacular of an Iraqi journalist against George Bush. These are few example of a creative and innovative ways of protest. As the adage goes "it is better to see ones than to hear a thousand times". With the passage of time, the achoes of voice will die out but the images of protest and slogans will linger.
Next time, when a protest to be staged, the concerned individual participants should rack their brains for a novel way of raising the issues to be seen conspicuously. Or if nothing is handy, then hold onto a snow lion flag and hoist it high. It is a symbol of Tibetan nation and Tibetan people and we should pay due respect to its significance by not wrapping around oneself, which I have seen Tibetan do during protest.
It was not a large protest, and the people present appeared not as enthusiastic and passionate as they should be. Standing along in one single file at the corner of the road, some even have their hands in pocket, and give the impression of reluctance for what they are doing. I doubt such a gathering could send out their message loud and clear to the onlookers and those people who drives by . This is by no means the perception of a spectator.
What I was witnessing reminded me of similar Tibetan people's protest against China during key anniversary or the visit of Chinese dignitaries. Tibetan protest in Washington D.C or in other parts of the country for most of the time have a considerable turnout of people.
But the protest can be more effective and more powerful if organizers and people involved could ensure to implement few things. The purpose of any demonstration is to draw attention and get media publicity for Tibetan people's flight. For that to happen, the size of the event matters hugely, therefore the event organizer should have the wisdom of making best use of the people present. Wherever there is a crowd and there is a natural sense of curiosity. Even a small group of people can enhance its effectivensss by handouting Tibetan national flags, and banners to each and every protesters.
There need to be a unified slogans and simple strategy to serve the goal of the protest. For example, protesters should raise the banner that resonates the protest and , or wave the Tibetan national flag or anything that symbolizes the issues. Instead of punching their fist in the air, palanquins, banner and flags were more symbolic and it sends out a clear and loud message, besides adding to the grandeur of the protest.
Creative and meaningful slogans could capture the lens of camera man and the eyes of media person. During 2008 Tibetan uprising, Tibetan college students in China showed their solidarity by observing a candle light vigil and a popular hand scripted slogan "IN SOLIDARITY WITH TIBETAN PEOPLE" in Tibetan language. This few simple words put together says a lot for the purpose of the sit in.
in Switzerland, a family dedicated their time to draw a catchy and attractive caricatures in a big white screen. Capturing the essence of China's brutality in Tibet in an artistic way. Then there was the trade mark slogans by Students for Free Tibet that mimic the Chinese official Olympic slogans " One World One Dream, Free Tibet". And not to forget the shoe throwing spectacular of an Iraqi journalist against George Bush. These are few example of a creative and innovative ways of protest. As the adage goes "it is better to see ones than to hear a thousand times". With the passage of time, the achoes of voice will die out but the images of protest and slogans will linger.
Next time, when a protest to be staged, the concerned individual participants should rack their brains for a novel way of raising the issues to be seen conspicuously. Or if nothing is handy, then hold onto a snow lion flag and hoist it high. It is a symbol of Tibetan nation and Tibetan people and we should pay due respect to its significance by not wrapping around oneself, which I have seen Tibetan do during protest.
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