Tibetans in Exile: Democracy and Activism

By Tenzin Lekshay

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Dr. Lobsang Sangay
(Courtesy:Harish Tyagi/EPA) 

Since the devolution of political leadership by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2011, Dr. Lobsang Sangay, then the newly elected Kalon Tripa was bestowed with the authority that the former inherited from Tagdra Rinpoche. However, in 2012, the Tibetan parliament decided upon changing the title of Kalon Tripa to Sikyong, which literarily means political leader. Some amongst the Tibetan critics raised skeptic questions about the legitimacy of change in title, which they fear are misleading and undemocratic.  It is therefore, important to understand the all over democratic process in exile, that emanated such transfer of power.

Assessment on Ladakh Incursion: Ignoring Tibet

By Tenzin Lekshay

Courtesy: Manjul

A month ahead of Li Keqiang, the new Chinese premier's planned visit to India, Chinese troops yet again played their game by sneaking into Indian territory. This time, unlike earlier incursions, they pitched tents in Depsang Bulge area of Ladakh. It is now confirmed that supply lines are on their way, which somehow gives a clue that they are not planning to retreat from their newest found base in India. The government of India initially downplay the recent incursion by calling it an acne. Such may be because, India wants to prepare for a grand red carpet reception for the visiting Li. But, now, with the seriousness of what is happening in Depsang Bulge, and its future implications on India's security, both the civilian and the military leaders are on their feet to discuss about the possible way out to push back the intruding Chinese troops.