Tibetans, forced to join the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), wouldn’t be sent near the Indian border, Lobsang Sangay, sikong or political head of the Tibetan government in exile, said. For, they would “cross over,” he said. He also wondered how much PLA officers would trust Tibetan troops, especially if there’s been coercion in the enrolment. On the other hand, Tibetan troops with the Indian security forces did well in Ladakh and forced the Chinese to pull back several years ago, he said.
Speaking about former U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi and her bipartisan delegation of Democrats and Republicans calling on the Dalai Lama, he said it was evidence of American intent. He agreed with Pelosi’s statement about Chinese leader Xi Jinping being forgotten by history. “All dictators will die… Pelosi is right. He will be forgotten while His Holiness, the Dalai Lama will be remembered,” he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Pelosi’s delegation was a sign of solidarity, he added. It was also symbolic, he said.
The sikong from 2011 to 2021, Sangay said China is keen on destroying Tibetan civilisation, including repressive measures against lamas and the destruction of monasteries, but has failed so far.
Nor while the Chinese have a role in finding the next Dalai Lama. Sangay said that when the current Dalai Lama does pass on, the Regent will take over while a selection committee will shortlist about 10 little boys. Of them, two or three may go before the finding committee and from the two-three, the next Dalai Lama will be chosen through divination. The process can take 3-6 years.
