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Tibetans Born in India After 1987 Can Vote, Confirms Himachal Assembly Speaker

In a significant affirmation of Tibetan rights in India, Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania stated that Tibetans born in India after 1987 are eligible to vote in Indian elections. He made this remark while meeting a delegation from the Tibetan Government-in-Exile at his office today.

A Visit of Gratitude

The Tibetan parliamentary delegation, comprising MPs Dondup Tashi and Tsering Yangchen, was accompanied by Sewang Phingchok, Chief Representative Officer of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile in Shimla, and Secretary Palden. Their visit was a gesture of appreciation for India’s unwavering support to the Tibetan community, particularly from the Himachal Pradesh government.

During the meeting, the Tibetan MPs expressed gratitude for India’s long-standing hospitality, which has enabled the Tibetan Government-in-Exile to function smoothly from its headquarters in Dharamshala. They reaffirmed their commitment to the Tibetan independence movement and emphasized their determination to continue their struggle.

MP Tsering Yangchen highlighted the importance of India’s role in supporting Tibetan refugees.

“Our primary responsibility is to express our deep appreciation for the protection and assistance provided by India and the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Continued cooperation is crucial for the well-being and governance of the Tibetan community,” she said.

India-Tibet Ties: A Relationship Rooted in History and Culture

Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania acknowledged the historical and cultural ties between India and Tibet, emphasizing that Tibetans have been living in India for over 65 years. He noted that Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, remains the heart of the Tibetan struggle.

He also reiterated India’s commitment to religious freedom, highlighting that millions of Indians follow Buddhism and deeply respect Tibetan spiritual traditions.

“The Indian government has always stood by the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, and our support will continue without hesitation,” he stated.

In a significant personal gesture, Pathania expressed his reverence for the Dalai Lama and announced his plans to visit Dharamshala soon to meet the Tibetan spiritual leader.

With this renewed assurance of support, the Tibetan community in Himachal Pradesh remains hopeful for continued cooperation and recognition of their rights in India.

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