By Tendar Tsering
DHARAMSHALA, November 10: The young head of the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has urged Tibetans in Tibet not to resort to self-immolation protests.
“These desperate acts, carried out by people with pure motivation, are a cry against the injustice and repression under which they live,” said the Karmapa referring to the recent spate of self-immolation in Tibet.
The religious head also urged the Chinese leadership to “heed Tibetans’ legitimate demands and to enter into meaningful dialogue with them instead of brutally trying to achieve their silence.”
“The situation is unbearably difficult, but in difficult situations we need greater courage and determination,” said the Karmapa, urging the Tibetans in Tibet to preserve their lives.
The Karmapa blamed the repressive policies of the Chinese government in Tibet for forcing 11 Tibetans to set themselves ablaze since March this year in quest for freedom in Tibet and return of the Dalai Lama.
“Repressive measures can never bring about unity and stability. Chinese leadership needs to seriously review its policies towards Tibetans and other minorities.”
