Reincarnated Rivalry? India Navigates China's Fury Over Dalai Lama’s Successor

As the 14th Dalai Lama marks his 90th birthday, his declaration that the Gaden Phodrang Trust will solely determine his successor has reignited tensions between India and China. The spiritual leader’s statement, made in Dharamshala, challenges Beijing’s long-standing claim to control Tibetan reincarnations and places New Delhi in a precarious diplomatic position.

 

Key Developments:

 

- The Dalai Lama affirmed that his reincarnation will be decided by the India-based Gaden Phodrang Trust, not by any external authority.

 

- China responded sharply, reiterating its 2007 legislation mandating state approval for Tibetan Buddhist reincarnations.

 

- Indian Minister Kiren Rijiju endorsed the Dalai Lama’s right to choose his successor, prompting Beijing to accuse India of interfering in its internal affairs.

 

- India’s Ministry of External Affairs clarified that it does not comment on religious matters, emphasizing its commitment to religious freedom.

 

Strategic Implications:

 

- India’s historical stance has been one of cautious neutrality, recognizing Tibet as part of China while hosting the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile.

 

- The Modi government has occasionally used the “Tibet card” for diplomatic leverage but avoids crossing Beijing’s red lines.

 

- Rising Tibetan nationalism and potential unrest could strain India-China border dynamics, especially in sensitive regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.

 

- China may intensify surveillance and pressure in Dharamshala, while India faces domestic criticism if perceived as appeasing Beijing.

 

Outlook:

 

New Delhi must now balance its strategic interests with moral support for Tibetan autonomy, navigating a complex web of faith, geopolitics, and regional stability.

 

Sources: The Diplomat, The Hindu, Times of India, Al Jazeera, The Week, New Indian Express.