By Jyoti Kamal
Mc Leodganj (Himachal Pradesh): The Tibetan flag flutters freely in Mcleodganj, but Tenzin Tsundue who is recent times has emerged as an icon for many a youth striving for Tibet’s independence paces restlessly like a caged tiger.
Tsundue, who unfurled the ‘Free Tibet’ banners in Mumbai and Bangalore during the visit of Chinese Prime Ministers in 2002 and 2005, has been ordered by police not to move out till November 25 this time. Needless to say he is angry.
“I feel India can be stronger than this. By putting bans on me and movements of some of the Tibetans, India can actually stand firm on its ground that is respect for its democratic values and the freedom that India is known for. And only he can deal with China, who stands up against China and never get bowed down,” says Tsundue.
Tsundue’s actions enjoy the support of many Tibetan youth.
“Tibetan youth are getting more frustrated as the Tibetan issue is pushed into a corner every time the leaders meet. People are getting more frustrated and so that’s why they are willing to take more actions,” says US returned Tibetan activist, Tenzin Palkyi.
Tsundue was planning another eye-catching protest during Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit. However, the police action frustrated the plan. And this has also angered many Tibetans.
“As Indian as I am, I am Tibetan. I am ashamed that free democratic India should welcome a man who has the blood of millions of men on his hands-the people of Tibet, the ordinary people of Tibet can never support any agreement that India signs with this murderous regime, because Tibet belongs to the Tibetans, not to the Chinese, says former Tibetan guerilla, Lhasang Tsering.
Ahead of the Hu Jintao’s visit to India, the government has put restrictions on the travels of Tenzin Tsundue, it does not want to be embarrassed by a repeat of actions that he has done earlier.
However, Tsundue says whether he goes out or not, the message that Tibetans crave for a free Tibet will go out loud and clear.
