SRINAGAR: BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh on Tuesday met Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Ladakh, highlighting the region’s “significance not just as a strategic frontier but as a sacred region where Buddhist wisdom, Indian civilisation, and national pride converge”.In his talks, Chugh stressed that India’s commitment to spiritual freedom and cultural preservation is not a matter of policy but a civilisational dharma. The Dalai Lama had arrived in Ladakh over the weekend for a month-long visit.A BJP statement mentioned that the meeting reflected a deep spiritual connection and mutual reverence for India’s civilisational responsibility in promoting peace, compassion, and religious freedom.The statement quoted the Dalai Lama as saying that “since coming into exile from Tibet in 1959, we have received immense support and assistance from the Govt of India”. “It is thanks to India’s generosity that we have been able to preserve our unique identity, language, and cultural heritage, deeply rooted in the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and karuna (compassion),” the Dalai Lama was quoted as saying.Chugh described the Dalai Lama as not just a spiritual leader but also a living embodiment of India’s civilisational values. “His message of compassion, universal brotherhood, and spiritual strength resonates with the soul of India,” Chugh said.The BJP national general secretary highlighted India’s firm commitment to being a sanctuary for seekers of truth and justice during PM Narendra Modi’s leadership. “India is the land of Buddha, and PM Modi is making every possible effort to protect and preserve the legacy of Bhagwan Buddha, not just for India, but for the world,” Chugh said.According to Chugh, the meeting with the Dalai Lama was not just a political gesture but also a reaffirmation of India’s timeless duty to protect torchbearers of truth, ahimsa, and dharma in a turbulent world.