Discerning observers around the world are increasingly alarmed by the growing tendency to equate might with right in shaping global relations. There is a broad consensus that expansionist nations, using oppressive and aggressive tactics to subdue others, must not be allowed to have the last laugh.

Dalai Lama’s Assertion

In this context, millions of people who value justice and freedom have welcomed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s recent assertion that the matter of his reincarnation must be decided according to Tibetan tradition — and not by the Chinese government.

Rejecting Beijing’s claim that it must approve the next Dalai Lama’s selection, His Holiness has made it unequivocally clear that the Gaden Phodrang Trust alone holds the authority to recognize and anoint his successor.

China, unsurprisingly, reacted sharply. The response from a government known for its authoritarian grip over occupied Tibet was expected. What is ironic, however, is that a communist regime run by self-declared atheists is now claiming the right to appoint a religious leader. This only reveals the extent of China’s political manipulation and lack of respect for religious freedom.

A Rare and Firm Stand

This may be the firmest stand His Holiness has taken in recent decades. It sends a clear message: Tibetans will not surrender to Chinese diktats and will continue to fight to preserve their culture, traditions, and identity — and to reclaim their rightful heritage.

Nearly seven decades ago, China invaded Tibet, killed thousands of protestors, and has since maintained a brutal, illegitimate occupation. Despite this, the international community — including India — has largely remained silent and complicit. In the realpolitik of international relations, moral clarity has often been sacrificed for trade interests and economic gain.

Today, countries prioritize economic ties over ethical concerns. This trend shows no sign of reversal. As such, even as the Dalai Lama makes a bold move, many governments are likely to merely observe — and say little or nothing.

India’s reported minister statement - since clarified by the Ministry of External Affairs - that only the Dalai Lama and the tradition he embodies can determine his successor is welcome but belated. In retrospect, India’s recognition of China’s occupation of Tibet was a strategic misstep. Yet, it is unlikely that India will go beyond this verbal support, given its deep trade ties with China, which now accounts for nearly half the world’s manufacturing output in key sectors.

Tibetan Diaspora Must Lead

Despite muted international responses, the Dalai Lama’s declaration is a morale booster for Tibetans worldwide. It marks a turning point, rekindling hope and determination among Tibetans and their supporters.

Today, an estimated 150,000 Tibetans live in India, and many more are scattered across the world, having acquired citizenship in other countries. But no matter where they reside, they must stay united in spirit. Their commitment to Tibetan culture, identity, and the vision articulated by His Holiness must remain unwavering.

Wherever they are, Tibetans must dream of — and work towards — a free, independent Tibet restored to its pristine cultural glory. They must strive to prove that might is not always right. A non-violent, persistent global movement grounded in justice, cultural preservation, and human dignity can achieve what force cannot.

The Tibetan diaspora must now take the lead in mobilizing global opinion. The Dalai Lama has issued a clarion call — not only to uphold Tibet’s spiritual and cultural values, but to defend the right of a people to decide their own destiny.

(The writer is the founder-director of Nandini Consultancy Centre, Chennai, and a commentator on current affairs. Views expressed are personal. He can be reached at nsvenkatchennai@gmail.com.)