MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on Friday that the Government of India “does not take any position or speak on matters concerning beliefs and practices of faith and religion.” This statement followed the recent assertion by the Dalai Lama’s that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, established by him, would be the sole authority in recognising his future reincarnation.
The clarification from New Delhi came after Beijing issued a sharp warning against any external involvement in the selection of the Tibetan spiritual leader’s successor, following recent statements by an Indian Union Minister.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs, in its statement, said, “We have seen reports relating to the statement made by His Holiness the Dalai Lama about the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution. Government of India does not take any position or speak on matters concerning beliefs and practices of faith and religion. Government has always upheld freedom of religion for all in India and will continue to do so.” This statement came after China’s reaction stating that India should tread carefully in matters related to Tibet.
What did the Dalai Lama say?
The Dalai Lama announced on July 2, 2025, from his office in Dharamshala that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue after his death. He stated that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the sole authority to recognise his future reincarnation and that no other entity has the right to interfere in this matter. He affirmed that the search and recognition process would be carried out “in accordance with past tradition”
How did China react, and what triggered their warning?
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, on Friday, cautioned India to “handle Tibet-related issues with caution,” indicating that continued involvement could hinder efforts to improve bilateral relations. Beijing urged India to “clearly recognise the anti-China separatist stance of the 14th Dalai Lama” and to “respect its commitments on Tibet-related matters.” This strong reaction was prompted by earlier remarks from Indian Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
What exactly did Union Minister Kiren Rijiju say about the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation?
On Thursday, July 3, 2025, Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, publicly stated that the decision regarding the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation should rest with the incumbent and the established institution, not with any external entity. Rijiju, a practicing Buddhist, highlighted the global belief among followers that the spiritual leader himself should choose his successor. While he clarified he was speaking as a devotee and not on behalf of the government, his comments were widely perceived as aligning with the Dalai Lama’s position and indirectly challenging China’s claims.
What is the long-standing background to the Dalai Lama’s succession issue?
The question of the Dalai Lama’s succession is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhist tradition and the geopolitical struggle over Tibet. Tibetan Buddhists believe the Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara and that he can choose his next rebirth. The current 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has lived in exile in India since 1959.
China, however, insists that the reincarnation process, particularly for high-ranking lamas like the Dalai Lama, must be approved by the Chinese government, often referencing the “Golden Urn” system. This 18th-century practice involves drawing lots from a golden urn for selection, followed by central government endorsement.
The 14th Dalai Lama has consistently rejected China’s claim, asserting that his reincarnation will be born outside of Chinese control and that the Gaden Phodrang Trust will have the exclusive authority to recognize his successor. This fundamental disagreement sets the stage for a potential dual Dalai Lama scenario, reflecting the ongoing clash between religious autonomy and state control, with significant implications for both the future of Tibetan Buddhism and the volatile India-China relationship.