Shimla, Feb 3,
Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania stated that Tibetans born in India after 1987 are eligible to exercise their voting rights. He made these remarks while meeting with a delegation from the Tibetan Government-in-Exile at his office today.
The Tibetan parliamentary delegation included MPs Dondup Tashi and Tsering Yangchen, who were accompanied by Chief Representative Officer of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile in Shimla, Sewang Phingchok, and Secretary Palden. The delegation’s visit was a courtesy call to express gratitude for the unwavering support provided by the Indian government and the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly to the Tibetan community.
During the meeting, the Tibetan MPs acknowledged India’s long-standing hospitality, particularly the support extended by the Himachal Pradesh government, which has enabled the Tibetan Government-in-Exile to function smoothly from its headquarters in Dharamshala. They emphasized their commitment to the Tibetan independence movement and their determination to achieve their goal.
MP Tsering Yangchen stated that her primary responsibility was to convey the Tibetan Government-in-Exile’s appreciation for the protection and assistance granted by the Indian government and the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. She emphasized the importance of continued cooperation for the Tibetan community’s welfare and governance.
Vidhan Sabha Speaker Pathania highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Tibet. He noted that Tibetans have been residing in India for over 65 years, with Dharamshala serving as the epicenter of the Tibetan struggle. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to religious freedom and acknowledged the millions of Indians who follow Buddhism.
“The Indian government has always stood by the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, and our support will continue without hesitation,” Pathania stated. He also expressed his personal reverence for the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, and announced his intention to visit Dharamshala soon to meet him.
Highlighting the enduring Indo-Tibetan relations, Pathania pointed out that Himachal Pradesh has a historical trade and commercial connection with Tibet, which remains intact. He further emphasized that Tibetans born in India after 1987 have been granted voting rights by the Himachal Pradesh government, integrating them further into the democratic framework of the country.
The Tibetan Government-in-Exile operates with 45 elected MPs who work across India to engage with Tibetan communities. The delegation assured that they will continue their mission of advocating for Tibetan independence while fostering strong relations with the Indian government.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of the decades-long struggle for Tibetan independence following China’s occupation of Tibet. India has provided refuge to Tibetan exiles, and multiple rounds of diplomatic talks between the Tibetan representatives and China have been held over the years.
