MEETING WITH INDIAN COLLEGE STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN THE GURUKUL PROGRAMME:

Meeting with Indian College Students Participating in the Gurukul Programme

On 20th June 2024, the TYC General Secretary, Sonam Tsering la, along with other NGO representatives, met with Indian college students participating in the Gurukul Programme of the Delhi-based Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The meeting, held at the TYC office, included a briefing on TYC and the overall Tibetan freedom movement.

 

The NGO representatives answered a wide range of questions posed by the participants on critical human rights issues in Tibet and the exile freedom movement. At the request of one of the participants, the TYC General Secretary recited two of his poems that portray the challenges faced by Tibetans in exile and their spirit of activism.

 

The organizing representative thanked TYC for providing the venue and expressed their gratitude to the representatives for their time and resources.

 

US DELEATION VISIT IN DHARAMSHALA:


US Delegation Visit in Dharamshala:

On 19th June 2024, the Tibetan Youth Congress General Secretary and Social Service Secretary warmly bid farewell to the U.S. Congress bipartisan delegation, led by Representative Michael McCaul, in Dharamshala. As a token of gratitude for their unwavering support of Tibet’s just cause, TYC presented them with Khataks and a TYC memento.

NEWLY ELECTED EXECUTIVE MEMBERS OF RTYC MINNESOTA

TYC President Gonpo Dhundup formally inducted the newly elected executive members of RTYC Minnesota. He expressed gratitude to the outgoing President, Tenzin Choesang, and the entire team for their contributions. He also congratulated the new President, Tenzin Palsang la, and the team, wishing them a successful tenure.

END TORTURE IN TIBET: JUSTICE FOR TRULKU TENZIN DELEK RINPOCHEY AND ALL TIBETAN POLITICAL PRISONER

End Torture in Tibet: Justice for Trulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche and all Tibetan political prisoners

On this solemn occasion, marking the 37th anniversary of the United Nations Convention Against Torture, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for Free Tibet and Tibetan Women’s Association stand in solidarity with the Tibetan human rights defenders, dissidents, and activists who have endured and continue to endure torture in and outside detention centres and prisons across Tibet.

In Tibet, torture remains a pervasive tool employed by Chinese authorities inside prisons and detention centres with electric shocks, beatings, prolonged solitary confinement, and more used not just to inflict physical pain but also to break the spirit of Tibetan political prisoners. The scars, both physical and psychological, leave a lasting impact even after their release, with a ripple effect on their families and communities.

Through this signature petition campaign, the four CSOs aim to shed light on the case of Trulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, a revered Tibetan religious and community leader who suffered wrongful imprisonment, beatings and torture, ultimately leading to his untimely death in Chinese custody. His case illustrates China’s blatant disregard for international human rights standards, including the right to be free from torture as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention Against Torture.

Your action is crucial now more than ever. By signing this petition, you join us in urging the Chinese government to uphold its commitments under the Convention Against Torture, conduct transparent investigations into custodial deaths like that of Trulku Tenzin Delek, and hold accountable those responsible for such egregious human rights violations. Your signature is a voice for justice and a stand against impunity.

Together, let us honour the memory of those who have suffered and demand an end to the systemic use of torture in Tibet. Sign the petition to ensure their voices are heard and their stories remembered.

Why it is important:

This petition serves as a critical call to action for governments, civil society organisations, and individuals worldwide to hold China accountable for its systematic use of torture and other forms of inhuman treatment in Tibet.

By demanding accountability and transparency, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, alongside the Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for Free Tibet, and Tibetan Women’s Association, strives to seek justice for victims like Trulku Tenzin Delek, prevent future atrocities, and uphold the fundamental principles of human rights for all. Every signature represents a powerful statement supporting justice, dignity, and the rule of law.

THE INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF TORTURE

The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

On June 26, 2024, the Tibetan Youth Congress, in collaboration with the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, Students for a Free Tibet, and the Tibetan Women’s Association, commemorated the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The event featured a panel discussion with former political prisoners, commencing with an introductory address by Miss Tenzin Dawa la, the director of TCHRD, followed by insights from Miss Phurbu Dolma, a researcher at the Centre, who presented 20 case studies of former Tibetan political prisoners. The discussion then shifted to a panel comprising five former political prisoners moderated by TYC General Secretary, Mr. Sonam Tsering la. The panel commenced with a video message from Nyima Lhamo la, the niece of the late Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche.

The five invited political prisoners included Geshi Tsering Dorji, a student of the late Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche; Lobsang Yonten, who endured over 17 years in prison; Gedhun Rinchen; Sherab Gyatso; and Geshe Ngawang Delek. Each shared their harrowing experiences of inhumane torture endured in prison. Following a Q&A session with attendees, the event concluded with words of gratitude from Mrs. Tsering Dolma la, the President of the Tibetan Women’s Association.

 

 

JOINT SECRETARY PARTICIPATE IN A CROSS MOVEMENT ROUNDTABLE IN TAIWAN

Joint Secretary participated in a Cross Movement RoundTable in Taiwan

Mr. Tsering Chomphel, the Joint Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, participated in a five-day Cross Movement 3rd Roundtable in Taiwan organized by Students for a Free Tibet International. The conference brought together youth activists from Tibet, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and East Turkistan. Additionally, during his visit, the Joint Secretary engaged in discussions with members of RTYC Taiwan to explore avenues for enhancing and strengthening  the movement.

TIBETAN YOUTH CONGRESS EXECUTIVE MEMBER SPEAKING TOUR ALL OVER THE INDIA, ENGAGED WITH ALL CHAPTERS IN TIBETAN SETTLEMENTS AND INSTITUTIONS.

Tibetan Youth Congress President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Organizational Secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la conducted a productive official speaking tour of South India, engaging with various chapters in Tibetan settlements and institutions.

Mainpat Tibetan Settlement (April 8, 2024)

President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la commenced their tour in Mainpat Tibetan Settlement on April 8, 2024. RTYC Mainpat organized an internal meeting with the regional executives. The day began with visits to all local monasteries, followed by a public gathering at 10:30 AM. This event was attended by the TSO Mainpat, the President of the Cooperative Society, regional presidents, executives, and members of the public. They engaged with the audience through a Q&A session. Later, they visited old age homes and schools within the settlement.

Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Studies:

At the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Studies, TYC President and the Organizational secretary led interactive sessions with faculty members and students, addressing questions from the audience. Attendees included Tibetan MP Rigzen Lhundup la, Principal Tenzin Passang, and other faculty members and students.

Bangalore (April 13, 2024)

On April 13, RTYC Bangalore hosted a public talk at the Bangalore Tibetan Youth Hostel with president Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la. The centrex executives addressed the audience and responded to queries. This was followed by an internal meeting with RTYC Bangalore executive members. Appreciated they voluntary services and encouraged them to continue their effort.

Hunsur Tibetan Settlement

The TYC leaders visited the Hunsur Tibetan Settlement, meeting with the Settlement Officer and other dignitaries. They delivered a public talk during a Mani prayer gathering in the Settlement Hall. They also met with the abbot of Gyudmed Tantric University and former RTYC member and current Tibetan Parliament member in exile, Kungo Migyur Dorjee, updating him on TYC activities.

Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement (April 17-20, 2024)

From April 17-20, Mr. Gonpo Dhundup la and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel la conducted a successful public speaking tour in the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement. Their activities included meetings with the settlement officer and Tibetan Members of Parliament, talks on the critical situation in Tibet at schools, public engagements, and interactive Q&A sessions. The tour concluded with the successful election of new regional chapter members on April 20, 2024. Former TYC Centrex and current Tibetan MP Chomphel Thupten la and Kunchok Yarphel la attended the election. Eleven executive members were elected, with Thupten Rabten elected as president. The TYC Central Executive extends its best wishes for a successful tenure.

 

Mundgod Tibetan Settlement

President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and Organizational Secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel had a four-day speaking tour in the Mundgod Tibetan Settlement. They visited each village, met with the public, and addressed the critical situation in Tibet. On the final day, they toured the Mundgod RTYC office, where regional working committee members briefed them on their activities. They also visited Mundgod Sambhota School, delivered a talk on the situation in Tibet, and introduced TYC’s campaign activities. This was followed by a Q&A session with students. The school principal, Namgyal la, along with the director and teachers, attended the discussion.

Mangalore:

The TYC President and Organizational Secretary participated in the 35th Birth Anniversary event hosted by RTYC Mangalore. They delivered a speech highlighting the significant contributions of the previous Panchen Rinpoche and discussed the current critical situation in Tibet.

Odisha Tibetan Settlement:

As part of their tour, Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and Mr. Yeshi Chomphel visited the Odisha Settlement, where they delivered a public address focusing on the current situation in Tibet and responding to public inquiries. Attendees included the Tibetan settlement officer, the Speaker of the Local Tibetan Assembly, the President of the Regional Freedom Movement, Katok Tulku, the School Principal, and RTYC Odisha members.

Sambhota Chandragiri School:

The TYC President and organizational secretary visited Sambhota Chandragiri School to discuss the current situation in Tibet and introduce TYC’s campaign activities. The visit included a Q&A session with students. The school principal, Samdup Dorjee, welcomed them with a traditional Tibetan scarf and delivered a thank-you speech.

The chapter visit by TYC President Mr. Gonpo Dhundup and organizational secretary Mr. Yeshi Chomphel was highly successful in raising awareness about the critical situation in Tibet and strengthening the engagement of regional chapters and the general public in the Tibetan freedom movement.

TYC Speaking Tour in North India:

Tibetan Youth Congress Vice President Mr. Tashi Targyal la and Joint Secretary Mr. Tsering Choephel la embarked on a month-long tour of TYC chapters in North India, starting with the Bir Tibetan Settlement.

Bir Tibetan Settlement (April 10, 2024)

On April 10, 2024, the RTYC Bir organized a public meeting with Mr. Targyal Targyal la and Mr. Tsering Choephel la. They discussed the significance of TYC’s political campaign work and raised awareness about the critical situation in Tibet. The meeting concluded with the presentation of appreciation scarves them by the meeting attandees. Notable attandees included former centrex member Mr. Tsewang Rabgyal la , the Tibetan settlement officer, the Speaker of the Local Assembly, the President of the Cooperative Society, and members of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Bir.

 

Shimla (April 11, 2024)

The next day, a public gathering organized by the Regional Chapter Shimla was held. The Vice President and Joint Secretary delivered a public talk, addressing the critical situation in Tibet, particularly the Chinese government’s implementation of policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity by forcefully enrolling Tibetan children in colonial-style boarding schools. This was followed by a Q&A session.

Paonta Tibetan Settlement (April 12, 2024)

On April 12, the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary spoke at a public meeting organized by the Regional Chapter in Paonta Tibetan Settlement. They highlighted the urgent situation in Tibet and emphasized the importance of public involvement in the Tibetan freedom movement. The talk was attended by local dignitaries, and the visit included a tour of the local school, cooperative society, and nearby monastery.

Purwala Tibetan Settlement (April 13, 2024)

On April 13, they visited Purwala Tibetan Settlement and gave a public talk. The discussion focused on the need for public participation in freedom movement activities and encouraged continuous support for regional chapter initiatives. The visit also included short visit to local schools and monasteries.

Herbertpur (April 14, 2024)

In Herbertpur, Mr. Tashi Targyal la and Mr. Tsering Choephel la delivered a public talk attended by a large audience, including former TYC Centrex member and former Health Kalon, Kungo Choekyong Wangchuk. They also visited local old age homes.

Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement (April 15, 2024)

On April 15, a public talk at Dekyiling Tibetan Settlement was hosted by RTYC Dekyiling. The leaders highlighted TYC’s campaign activities and the critical situation in Tibet. Former executive member Tsewang Dolma la and other dignitaries attended alongside TYC members. They also visited Gepheling in Dekyiling and delivered a public talk there.

Rajpur (April 16, 2024)

In Rajpur, Mr. Targyal and Mr. Choephel conducted a public talk and played a crucial role in restoring the 14th term regional chapter by holding elections on April 20, 2024.

TCV Selakui (April 16, 2024)

The same day, they addressed the critical situation in Tibet and TYC’s campaign activities at TCV Selakui. The gathering included teachers and students from TCV Selakui and students from ITI. A Q&A session followed the talk.

Mussouri Tibetan School (April 17, 2024)

On April 17, they gave a talk at Mussouri Tibetan School, attended by staff and students in large numbers. The discussion centered on TYC’s campaign work and the situation in Tibet, especially focusing on the colonial boarding schools. A Q&A session followed.

Nainital (April 19, 2024)

On April 19, the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary delivered a public talk in Nainital. Representatives from regional associations and members of the Nainital Regional Tibetan Youth Congress attended the gathering.

The tour by the TYC Vice President and Joint Secretary highlighted the pressing issues in Tibet and strengthened the engagement and involvement of regional chapters and the general public in the Tibetan freedom movement.

 

Meeting with US Delegation In Dharamshala

TYC President Gonpo Dhundup and Media Manager Tenzin Lobsang had a meeting with Mr. William J. O’Connor and Mr. Robin Bansel of the US Embassy, along with representatives from other NGOs. They discussed TYC’s campaign initiatives, explored future collaboration opportunities, and expressed gratitude for the US’s constant support for Tibet’s just cause.

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