The Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) has issued a statement expressing deep concern and seeking justice on the 28th anniversary of the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. The DIIR statement highlights the ongoing plight of the Panchen Lama and calls for a transparent investigation into his disappearance.
In the statement released on their official website, the DIIR acknowledges that it has been nearly three decades since the 11th Panchen Lama, recognized by the Dalai Lama, was taken into custody by the Chinese authorities at the tender age of six. Since then, there has been a lack of verifiable information regarding his well-being and whereabouts.
The DIIR emphasized the international community's responsibility to ensure that the rights and well-being of the Panchen Lama are protected. It urges governments, human rights organizations, and individuals around the world to join forces in demanding transparency and accountability from the Chinese authorities regarding the 11th Panchen Lama's case.
Furthermore, the DIIR statement highlights the significance of the Panchen Lama as a spiritual leader and an important figure within Tibetan Buddhism. The Panchen Lama is traditionally responsible for recognizing the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, and his forced disappearance raises concerns about the interference in Tibetan religious affairs by the Chinese government.
The DIIR's statement echoed the sentiments of many Tibetans and supporters of Tibetan rights worldwide, who have continuously called for the release of the 11th Panchen Lama and information regarding his well-being. The international community has often expressed its concerns over the lack of transparency and human rights abuses in Tibet, urging the Chinese government to respect the religious and cultural rights of Tibetans.
The disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama has been a subject of contention between the Chinese government and the Tibetan community, with conflicting accounts and information surrounding the case. The DIIR's statement serves as a reminder of the unresolved issue and the urgency to address it.
As the anniversary of the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama is marked, the DIIR's statement aims to draw attention to the ongoing human rights concerns and the need for accountability. It calls for a renewed effort from the international community to press for a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the Panchen Lama's disappearance, and to advocate for the protection of the Tibetan people's religious and cultural rights.
The DIIR's statement concluded by urging governments, human rights organizations, and individuals to raise their voices in support of the Panchen Lama's cause and to work towards a resolution that ensures justice and respects the rights of Tibetans.
Edited and collated by Team TRC