In snub to China, India says only Dalai can pick successor

‘Only Dalai Lama Decides!’: India SLAMS China’s Bid To Pick Next Dalai Lama | XI RATTLED by Pushback

India has made its position unequivocally clear on the contentious issue of the 14th Dalai Lama's succession, pushing back firmly against China's aggressive claims. In a significant statement, India stressed that the right to choose the next Dalai Lama rests solely with the current Dalai Lama himself and the established traditions. This comes as a direct response to China's Foreign Ministry, which has repeatedly insisted that the selection process must conform to "Chinese laws and historical practice." The Dalai Lama has consistently rejected Beijing's interference. He has designated the Gaden Phodrang Trust, his formal office, as the ultimate authority in identifying and confirming his successor. Indian Union Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed this sentiment, stating that the succession must honor the age-old traditions and the personal wishes of the Dalai Lama. This high-stakes diplomatic standoff has reignited fears among Tibetans in exile, who have long warned that China may attempt to install a "fake" Dalai Lama to solidify its control over Tibet and undermine the Tibetan freedom movement. Living in exile in India since fleeing Chinese repression in 1959, the Dalai Lama remains a global icon of peace, despite Beijing's relentless campaign to label him a separatist. As early as 2011, he cautioned the world that Beijing would likely try to manipulate his reincarnation for political gain. With India now taking a public and resolute stand, the future of one of the world's most revered spiritual leaderships hangs in the balance. #DalaiLama #IndiaChina #Tibet #BreakingNews #Geopolitics #India #China #KirenRijiju #WorldNews #OneindiaNews Also Read India and the Dalai Lama: A Bond Rooted In Tradition, Tested by Geopolitics :: https://www.oneindia.com/india/india-and-the-dalai-lama-a-bond-rooted-in-tradition-tested-by-geopolitics-7790117.html?ref=DMDesc The Battle for a Soul: Dalai Lama’s Rebirth Sparks Fresh Tensions with China; Beijing Reacts By Saying... :: https://www.oneindia.com/international/the-battle-for-a-soul-dalai-lama-s-rebirth-sparks-fresh-tensions-with-china-beijing-reacts-by-sayi-7789273.html?ref=DMDesc Dalai Lama Says Gaden Phodrang Trust Will Decide His Successor :: https://www.oneindia.com/international/dalai-lama-says-gaden-phodrang-trust-will-decide-his-successor-7788985.html?ref=DMDesc ~HT.410~ED.194~