By Ankit K (Institute – Asst Professor in International Relations, National Defence University)
For Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama represents not just a spiritual guide but a living bridge to centuries-old Buddhist wisdom and Tibetan cultural identity. Since its founding in the 16th century, the institution has served as a source of moral clarity, resilience, and hope for millions around the world.
Tension Over Succession
On July 2, 2025, just before his 90th birthday, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, announced that he plans to reincarnate. He declared that only his Gaden Phodrang Trust in exile will have the authority to recognize his successor. He emphasized that the next Dalai Lama will be identified through traditional spiritual methods—visions, oracles, and monastic consultations—and will be born outside Chinese-controlled Tibet.
China’s Interference and Legal Pretext
Beijing immediately dismissed his statement. Under the 2007 “Measures on the Management of the Reincarnation of Living Buddhas,” the Chinese government insists it must approve all reincarnations of high lamas, including the Dalai Lama. Beijing maintains the process must occur within China—following the Golden Urn ritual and require state approval. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning accused the Dalai Lama’s supporters and India of “interference” in China’s internal aƯairs.
A Historical Pattern of Control
This is not the first time China has intruded on Tibetan religious succession. In 1995, the Dalai Lama recognized six-year-old Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the 11th Panchen Lama.
Within days, Chinese authorities detained the boy and his family. They then appointed Gyaltsen Norbu, a government-approved candidate, as Panchen Lama. Since then, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima has remained missing, a stark reminder of Beijing’s political control over Tibetan spiritual institutions.
Ongoing Sinicization and Cultural Erosion
China’s broader campaign to integrate Tibetan Buddhism into Communist ideology has seen monasteries like Larung Gar and Yarchen Gar destroyed or forcibly rebuilt. Thousands of monks and nuns have been evicted, subjected to “patriotic re-education,” and closely monitored.
Displays of Tibetan prayer flags, pottery depicting the Dalai Lama, and even religious schooling for children are now suppressed under heavy surveillance.
Humanitarian and Legal Outcry
Human rights organizations have condemned Beijing’s actions, calling the forced disappearances, state-sanctioned successors, and restrictions on religious symbols a “direct assault on freedom of religion.” They argue that choosing spiritual leaders is a deeply held Tibetan Buddhist tradition—not a policy matter for the Communist Party.
Why Every Buddhist Should Care
This issue transcends Tibetan national concerns—it is a matter of spiritual integrity. When spiritual authority is hijacked for political alignment, the very essence of religious tradition is corrupted. The upcoming succession of the Dalai Lama will determine whether Tibetan Buddhism remains a genuine spiritual path or becomes an extension of state ideology.
The Road Ahead: A Dual Successor Scenario
Observers fear a future split: one Dalai Lama recognized by the global Tibetan Buddhist community, another installed by Beijing. Such a divide would fracture Tibetan unity, confuse followers, and reduce what has long been a unifying spiritual lineage to a tool in political maneuvering.
Global Response and Call to Action
India has voiced support for the Dalai Lama’s exclusive right to determine his successor, while the European Union and United States have endorsed Tibetan religious freedom and urged China to halt its interference. Campaigns calling for the disappearance of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima to be resolved and for state influence over reincarnation to cease are gaining momentum worldwide.
This moment calls for clear spiritual clarity and global solidarity. Supporting Tibetan Buddhists in their right to a legitimate succession is not merely political—it is a defense of the autonomy of religious traditions everywhere. As the Dalai Lama continues to embody compassion and moral leadership, the world must ensure that no political power extinguishes that beacon.
The views expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the organization’s.
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