Dalai Lama Rebuffs China on Successor Authority

Ahead of his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama affirmed that only his traditional office, the Gaden Phodrang Trust, has the authority to oversee his reincarnation, explicitly rejecting any role for China or other external authorities. This declaration was welcomed by Tibetans as a strong assertion of religious sovereignty. China responded with strong objections, insisting that the Dalai Lama's reincarnation is an internal Chinese affair and warning India against supporting his position. Indian officials emphasized support for religious freedom but reiterated that the government does not take a stance on religious succession matters. Experts warn that the dispute could result in rival Dalai Lamas—one chosen by Beijing and another by the Tibetan exile community. The situation underscores heightened diplomatic tension between China, India, and the Tibetan diaspora, with significant implications for regional stability and Tibetan cultural identity.