The Freedom March organized by the Tibetan Youth Congress is participated by over 80 participants from 22 different places. The March, which started from Thekchen Choling, Dharamsala on the 11th of February, is scheduled to culminate in New Delhi on 10th of March 2004, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day. Prior to its start the March countered restriction from the local administration with ensuing lathicharge and police detention. But the resolve of the Marchers triumphed over all the hurdles to subsequently cover over 330kms across the Himalayas into the plains, so far. Currently the March has reached Lalru, a town 15kms from Ambala city.
The March has Mr. Gadong Jigme, managing the initial survey and co-ordination tasks, ensuring various necessary arrangements. He travels along the March in an advance group and facilitates contact with medias and the local organizations. Mr. Lobsang and Ms. Dolma Choephell lead the March and co-ordinate public campaigns – addressing Public gatherings and press conferences etc.
The participation of over dozen septuagenarians typifies the Freedom March, with 81-year-old pa Tenzin la from Bylakuppe, being the oldest amongst them. Others include 78-years-old Tendar la from Hunsur Rabgayling and 76-years-old Wangdak la from Dickyiling settlement etc.
Notwithstanding his advanced age, Pa Tenzin la effortlessly keeps abreast with the rest of the Marchers. His distinct brisk gait and exuberant disposition is a great inspiration for the entire fellow Marchers. However, a few days back, he suffered bronchitis – chest infection coupled with cough and breathing difficulties. Likewise Tendar la also suffered from occasional breathlessness caused by mild asthma. Tsewang Norbu la, who had previous symptom of bursocoele in the left knee resulting in fluid concentration, suffered acute pain while walking. On consulting PGI hospital, Chandigarh, the doctor diagnosed acclimatization as the cause for the health failures and advised a weeks rest for all. But the relentless spirit and unflinching resolve of these old warriors forced them back into the March in just three days. The return of the old warriors in the new battle is a cause of great jubilation and exhilaration for the entire participants of the Freedom March.
Sporting a red stripe (stitched by pa Tenzin la on the baptise day) and a white Khatag around his neck, Tashi la, the extraordinaire Marcher, continue to be the most admired and the irrepressible member of the March.
