China Bars Tibetans From Attending A Buddhist Event In India To ‘Battle Terrorism And Separatism’

Denying the fundamental right to unrestricted travel, the Chinese government has blocked Tibetans from participating in a Buddhist event in Bodh Gaya which is being attended by Dalai Lama, the most venerated religious and political figures in Tibetan Buddhism.

China, that not so long ago vetoed India's bid for a UN ban on Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar, has always accused the Dalai Lama of fueling separatism and terrorism in Tibet.

According to the Global Times, the mouthpiece of the Chinese communist party, the government has banned Tibetans from travelling to India to “battle terrorism and separatism.” Nepali media reported that "China has issued a temporary travel restriction on its citizens visiting Nepal and asked its travel agencies and airlines to cancel all travel plans and bookings made until January 10 with immediate effect".

A Tibetan pilgrim, talking to Times of India, said that those already outside the country have been asked to come back before the Dali Lama begins his teachings.

Since 2012, Tibetans have faced universal passport confiscations. Further restrictions imposed in 2014 have prevented Tibetans from travelling to religious ceremonies and sacred sites.