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Time of India

Bodh Gaya Buddhists slam China's ‘control tactics'

Patna: The sacred land of Bodh Gaya is seething with anger. Members of the Buddhist community have expressed deep outrage over China's attempt to dictate terms on the succession of the 14th Dalai Lama, considered both a spiritual and political leader by Tibetans. The controversy erupted after Beijing rejected the Dalai Lama's declaration that his reincarnation would be recognised solely by the trust he founded. China insisted any future Dalai Lama must be chosen through its own state-sanctioned processes, including the archaic "Golden Urn" method. Bhante Priyapal, chief priest of Chakma Temple and a member of the International Buddhist Council, described China's actions as "totally unfair" and an extension of its expansionist policy. "Only the Dalai Lama should have the authority to name his successor," he said. Bhante Anand, general secretary of the Bhartiya Sangharaj Bhikkuu Mahasabha, voiced unanimous support. "The Dalai Lama is not just a spiritual leader but the King of Tibet. Only he has the right to choose his successor," he said. Tibetan Lama Tashi Guruji added, "We will only go by the Dalai Lama's decision. China must not meddle in our spiritual affairs." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tecno Pova 7 Series: Making Your Phone Feel Ancient. TECNO Mobile Buy Now Undo Bhante Prajanasheel, chief advisor of the All India Buddhist Forum, said most Buddhists don't believe in reincarnation as Buddha preached liberation from the cycle of birth and death. "Still, the community stands firmly with the Dalai Lama," he said. China affairs expert Ajay Jha cautioned that the issue could further strain Sino-Indian relations. "India must tread carefully," he added.