China on Monday voiced strong objections to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending birthday greetings to the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 90th birthday, as well as to the participation of Indian ministers in the celebrations held at the Tibetan spiritual leader’s residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Reaffirming its firm position on Tibet-related matters, Beijing reiterated its long-standing stance on what it considers a highly sensitive issue.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, addressing a press briefing, emphasised that China’s position on Tibet—referred to as Xizang in China—remains consistent and well-established. Mao described the Dalai Lama as a "political exile" and accused him of engaging in separatist activities under the pretext of religious practice. “India should fully appreciate the great sensitivity of Xizang-related issues,” she stated, urging New Delhi to recognise what China characterises as the anti-separatist nature of the 14th Dalai Lama. She further called upon India to uphold the commitments it has made to China regarding Tibet.
Mao also accused India of using the Dalai Lama issue as a means of interfering in China’s internal affairs and issued a warning to the Indian government to refrain from such actions. In addition, the Chinese Embassy in India objected to the Dalai Lama’s recent comments concerning the continuation of the reincarnation tradition. Beijing asserted that the Dalai Lama lacks the authority to decide whether the centuries-old institution should persist or be abolished.
Also Read: Dalai Lama turns 90, urges compassion and peace over celebration
Despite these objections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media on Sunday to offer his greetings to the Dalai Lama. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Modi praised the Tibetan spiritual leader as a timeless emblem of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline. “His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life,” the Prime Minister wrote.
The birthday event in Dharamshala was attended by prominent Indian political figures, including Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Sikkim minister Sonam Lama. China had previously raised objections last Friday to remarks made by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who stated that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama should be determined according to the spiritual leader’s own wishes. In response, Beijing urged India to approach Tibet-related matters with caution, warning that mishandling the issue could negatively affect the ongoing development of bilateral relations.
On the preceding Wednesday, the Dalai Lama had announced that the institution of the Dalai Lama would continue into the future. He stated that only the Gaden Phodrang Trust would possess the authority to officially recognise his future reincarnation.
Also Read: Leaders offer warm tributes to Dalai Lama on 90th birthday
Follow us
