Dharamsala, 28 April – According to a reliable source, Tsering Dhondup is reportedly in a critical health condition. Tsering Dhondup, head of Othok Village in Nyakchuka County, Karze “Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture” (TAP) Sichuan Province is one of four detainees currently held in connection to the Trulku Tenzin Delek’s case. He was arrested two months after Trulku TenzinDelek’s arrest on 7 April 2002.
While in Dartsedo Detention Centre, Tsering suffered brutal beatings and torture. Reports state that he can not walk at all. It is reported that both his legs were broken and that he has lost sight in one eye. Following his sentencing, Tsering was transferred to a prison in Nyakchuka County, possibly Maowan Prison in Karze “TAP”. However, due to his critical condition, prison authorities of Nyakchuka refused to accept him under their custody. Therefore, Tsering continues to be detained in Dartsedo Detention Centre. According to a TCHRD source, Tsering was in good condition and had no health complications prior to his arrest.
Despite ratification of the Convention Against Torture in October 1988, the Chinese authorities have used torture against Tibetans as a means of extracting information and confession. To date TCHRD has recorded 81 deaths of Tibetans both while in custody and after release due to torture. The failure of the Chinese authorities to acknowledge, investigate and punish officials accused of committing torture suggests official endorsement of these illegal practices. Torture continues in Tibet due to lack of legal protection for prisoners, impunity extended to prison officials, inadequate legislation and the subservience of the judiciary to the Chinese Communists Party fostering an environment where officials are encouraged to employ practices that violate the Convention.
TCHRD is concerned about the safety of Tsering Dhondup and calls upon the Chinese government to release him immediately on medical parole. TCHRD holds the Chinese government accountable for the violations already committed and it will continue to monitor this case.
Contact person: Tenzin Chokey/Tenzin Norgay
Phone/fax: 91 1892 223363/225874
