NEW DELHI: Amid the tension between China and the Dalai Lama over the next successor, Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday stated that the next spiritual leader will be born in a free world. While talking with PTI, Khandu noted that the selection of a new Dalai Lama begins only after the current one passes away. He expressed hope and offered prayers for the 14th Dalai Lama to live for another 40 years.“In fact, as I said, His Holiness’ health is very good. And this time too — on the occasion of his 90th birthday celebration — His Holiness said that he will live to be around 130 years old. So we all pray and I am very hopeful that he will live to be 130,” Khandu told PTI Videos on Tuesday.As a Buddhist and follower of the Dalai Lama, Khandu acknowledged his limited knowledge of the selection process but confirmed established procedures exist.He clarified that while the specific birthplace remains uncertain, the next spiritual leader will emerge from a free society. When questioned about China’s exclusion, Khandu confirmed this, citing the country’s lack of democratic values.Regarding Tibet’s Chinese governance, Khandu remained diplomatic, emphasising that the future Dalai Lama would originate from a nation valuing freedom of expression and democratic principles.Khandu said, “I don’t know why China is objecting to it. They must have their own policy. There is no Dalai Lama institution in China. The Dalai Lama institution is recognised mainly in the Himalayan belt and by the Tibetan Buddhists. China has no role in it.”The chief minister said the Dalai Lama institution has been continuing for over 600 years, from the first Dalai Lama to the current 14th.