With elections looming for more than half of the world’s population, the political landscape is in a state of flux. However, Tibet remains under the occupation of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), with the latest Freedom House report ranking it as the least free country/region in the world, scoring 0 out of 100. India, home to the largest Tibetan diaspora, is also gearing up for general elections, with various political parties announcing their candidates and 19th April being the day when the elections begin.
In response, the Foundation for Non-Violent Alternatives has come out Policy Briefs titled “2024 Election: Tibet in the Election Manifesto” for India’s two major national political parties, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC), along with Key Takeaway points applicable to all major Political Parties of India.
These policy briefs urge political parties to include Tibet in their election campaign manifestos, building on past efforts.
Key Points highlighted in the briefs are:
I. Recognize Tibet’s strategic importance for India’s defense posture.
II. Encourage global cooperation on Tibet-related issues. Including dialogue between the two.
III. Advocate for the reestablishment of India’s mission in Lhasa; make the opening of Chinese offices in India conditional.
IV. Emphasize Tibet and the Himalayan region as India’s core interest.
V. Urge China for comprehensive information on hydropower projects, collaborative initiatives, and transparent environmental impact assessments.
VI. Demand a water-sharing agreement and the creation of an India-China Commission on Brahmaputra.
VII. Assert willingness to take the Brahmaputra water issue to international fora if necessary.
VIII. Reiterate India’s commitment to safeguarding Tibet’s religious and cultural identity.
IX. Pledge collaborative efforts to protect and promote Tibetan Buddhism.
X. Oppose outside interference in the Dalai Lama’s succession; offer support to the 15th Dalai Lama if in India.
XI. Promote interconnectivity and exchange along the Buddhist Himalayas.
XII. Work towards opening pilgrimage tourist routes, including Kailash-Mansarovar via Nathu-La and Demchok, and propose air and rail connections to Buddhist pilgrimage sites for the establishment of a Buddhist Circuit.
These points encapsulate central themes such as National Security, Policy for Himalayan States, Climate Change and Cultural Heritage, Buddhism, and the Succession of the 14th Dalai Lama.
We urge all stakeholders to utilize these policy briefs and key takeaways, urging political parties to prioritize Tibet’s issues on their election manifestos. Let’s bring Tibet to the forefront of discussions.
We thank all those who provided us valuable insights for the Policy Briefs.
Read/Download the key takeaway file
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