Tibetans and human rights organisations are once again demanding the release of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama, on the 30th anniversary of his disappearance. He was taken by Chinese authorities in May 1995, shortly after the Dalai Lama officially recognised him as the second-highest spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism.The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), based in India, said his abduction is one of the clearest examples of China’s human rights violations. “Kidnapped by Chinese authorities at the age of six, his abduction is one of the clearest examples of China’s severe human rights abuses,” said CTA spokesperson Tenzin Lekshay.US and international human rights officials also condemn China’s actions. “China vanished a six-year-old boy because he symbolised freedom for Tibetan Buddhists enduring severe oppression,” said Asif Mahmood of the US commission on international religious freedom. The Washington-based International Campaign for Tibet called on governments worldwide to pressure China to reveal the Panchen Lama’s location and condition.China has not shared any public information about his status, which has raised ongoing concerns about transparency and religious freedom in Tibet. The situation reflects Beijing’s strong involvement in Tibetan religious matters and its efforts to manage leadership roles within the region.
Who is Panchen Lama?
- The Panchen Lama is the second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism, after the Dalai Lama.
- He plays a key role in identifying the next Dalai Lama, and the two have traditionally recognised each other’s reincarnations.
- Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was declared the 11th Panchen Lama by the Dalai Lama in May 1995.
- Just days later, he and his family were taken by Chinese authorities.
- In his place, China installed another boy, Gyaltsen Norbu, whom many Tibetans do not recognise.
- The Panchen Lama’s disappearance remains a deeply emotional and political issue for Tibetans worldwide.