By Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Dec. 20: Former Tibetan political prisoner Kunchok Lodoe, who spent 13 years incarcerated in Drapchi prison in Lhasa, has reportedly passed away at the age of 54 on December 11, according to various sources. Born in Meldrogunkar County near Lhasa, he was known for his activism.
Lodoe, alongside four other Tibetans, was initially detained on June 30, 1992, following their participation in a street protest against the Chinese government. During the demonstration, they unfurled the Tibetan flag and voiced demands for a ‘Free Tibet’ outside a venue where local Chinese leaders were gathered for a meeting.
During his imprisonment at Drapchi Prison, which is known as Tibet’s largest detention center, Kunchok Lodoe endured physical torture that significantly impacted his health. His mistreatment led to severe health complications, particularly deteriorating the condition of his liver. As a result of his failing condition, he was granted temporary release in 1995 to receive urgent medical treatment.
Lodoe’s friends and fellow activists, speaking to RFA, mentioned that he was in good health before his sudden death on December 11. They highlighted the unexpected nature of his passing. They also pointed out a disturbing trend among political prisoners, noting that many individuals in this category tend to pass away in their 40s and that this premature mortality is often attributed to the severe torture they endure while incarcerated in prisons.
Dorjee, another fellow activist, told RFA that they experienced frequent beatings during their time in prison, particularly targeting their chest and stomach areas. Recollecting Kunchok Lodoe’s struggles, Dorjee mentioned that Lodoe faced persistent health challenges related to his liver, which significantly weakened and sickened him throughout his incarceration and also after his release.
