Dalai Lama's Reincarnation Statement Sparks International Debate
Indian Government's Stance on Religious Matters
New Delhi: On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India clarified that the government maintains a neutral stance regarding religious practices. This statement came shortly after the Dalai Lama declared that a specific Tibetan Buddhist trust would hold exclusive rights to identify his future reincarnation.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the Indian government has consistently supported religious freedom for all citizens and intends to uphold this principle.
"We have noted the reports concerning the remarks made by His Holiness the Dalai Lama regarding the future of the Dalai Lama institution," he stated.
"The Indian government does not engage in discussions or take positions on matters related to faith and religious practices," Jaiswal added.
This response was prompted by inquiries from the media regarding the Dalai Lama's comments as he approaches his 90th birthday on July 6.
In his statement on Wednesday, the Dalai Lama asserted that the Gaden Phodrang Trust is the only entity authorized to recognize his future reincarnation.
"I want to reaffirm that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the exclusive authority to acknowledge the future reincarnation; no other party has the right to intervene in this matter," he remarked.
Established in 2015 by the Dalai Lama, the trust is responsible for overseeing issues related to the Dalai Lama's institution.
In response to his comments, China reacted strongly, asserting that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must receive approval from the Chinese government.
"The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, the Panchen Lama, and other significant Buddhist figures must be determined by drawing lots from a golden urn and sanctioned by the central government," stated Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.
"While the Chinese government promotes freedom of religious belief, it also enforces regulations on religious affairs and the management of Tibetan living Buddhas' reincarnations," she added.