Introduction

As His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, approaches his 90th birthday on July 6, the world is prompted to reflect on a critical question about the future of Tibetan Buddhism: Who has the authority to decide the Dalai Lama's spiritual successor?

The Gaden Phodrang Trust

• The Dalai Lama established the Gaden Phodrang Trust to oversee his reincarnation, challenging Beijing's attempts to control this process.
• This decision signifies a defense of spiritual tradition against authoritarian control.

China's Role and Miscalculations

• China has historically sought control over Tibet, as evidenced by events like the 1959 Tibetan uprising and the abduction of the Panchen Lama in 1995.
• Efforts by Beijing to appoint the next Dalai Lama are viewed as coercive and lack legitimacy.
• The Dalai Lama's reincarnation is a deeply spiritual and introspective process, not subject to political imposition.

India's Position and Responsibility

• India has a historic responsibility, having given refuge to the Dalai Lama in 1959.
• There is a need for India to publicly support the Tibetan people's spiritual autonomy, ending a history of strategic ambiguity.
• Supporting Tibet aligns with India's ethical principles and strategic interests.

Conclusion

The future of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation must be decided by the Tibetan people, preserving their spiritual traditions. The global community, especially India, must support this stance to honor the legacy of His Holiness and ensure the meaningful use of time and moral authority.