Darjeeling, April 22 – Tibetans in Darjeeling observed Black Monday on April 21 mourning the victims of the post March 10 uprising in Tibet. Over few thousand pro-Tibet activists and human rights advocates from different localities and monasteries all over the region assembled at Chowrasta at 10 am. They kicked off their itinerary for the day with a head shaving protest as a sign of solidarity and resentment at the magnitude of casualties in recent weeks in their homeland. 74 students, 6 women and 160 men shaved their heads to give voice to the unsung heroes of our nation. They condemned the Chinese suppression of the innocent and unarmed ethnic Tibetan protestors. They also voiced their concerns over the torch traveling through Tibet, before reaching its final destination Beijing just in time for the Summer Olympics.
At 2.30 pm those gathered at the scene started a peaceful relay symbolizing the true meaning of harmony as opposed to the Olympic torch relay that many believe is tainted with the blood of Tibetans. The relay commenced from the heart of the town, the famous Chowrasta and after completing a full circle concluded at the same spot.
Passang Dolma, PRO, Darjeeling RTYC told Phayul, “We condemn the Chinese for their shameless maneuver and call upon the International Community to intervene immediately and prevent the Chinese from taking the Olympic torch through Tibet. The torch is a symbol of peace and harmony but if it enters Tibet, there will be more violence and many people will die”.
With input from RTYC, Darjeeling.
Photos by RTYC, Darjeeling.
