Although since the last 49 years, the stated policy of the government of India does not permit Tibetans to engage in anti-China political activities on its soil, a visit to the headquarters of the Tibetan government in exile led by spiritual guru Dalai Lama leaves no doubt that the Tibetans' political struggle is well-organised and does have steam to attract media attention if nothing else.
Young Tibetans have absorbed the Dalia Lama's sermons, but are ready to look beyond him too.
Tenzing, who has Dalai Lama's picture on her table, told rediff.com, "I don't believe in (Dalai Lama's message) middle path. I want independence for Tibet, my country. I believe in non-violence, but I am not for merely autonomy or freedom."
According to an estimate, there are around 1.30 lakh Tibetans living outside Tibet. Out of that around 85,000 to 1 lakh are living in India. Nepal has 14,000 and Bhutan has some 1,600 Tibetan refugees.
"China has got money, developmental success and the force. Now they want the acceptance of being a friendly power through holding Olympics 2008. We will make sure that they don't get away so easily. Our people will demonstrate everywhere as the Olympics Torch is lit and we will force China to feel embarrassed for not respecting the human rights of Tibetans since the last 50 years. Our time has arrived," says a member of the Students for Tibet in Mcleodganj to rediff.com.
If the Indian government thinks that Tibetans won't engage in political activity while living in India, they will be in for a surprise and possibly some long-drawn and serious diplomatic issues with China. Thankfully, for the Indian establishment Tibetans are in small numbers and and are managable.
Currently, the third and fourth generation of Tibetans dominate the refugee community with live contacts not just in Tibet, but also in US, Europe and Australia.
Before August 8, when the Olympics will begin in Beijing, Tibetans will have decided to take their battle to a higher pitch.
Image: PM in Exile Professor Smadhong Rimpoche.
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