The Newz Radar
MANDI: The Tibetan community here on Sunday held a gathering to commemorate the 1959 Tibetan uprising, the event observed as the ‘Tibetan Uprising Day’ against the presence of the Chinese in Tibet. The day is commemorated as a protest day against the atrocities committed by the Chinese government against the Tibetan people. 
It was on this day that armed rebellion was quashed by the Chinese army, resulting in a violent crackdown on Tibetan independence movement, resulting in the death of a large number of Tibetans and the escape from China of the temporal and spiritual leader of Tibet, the 14th Dalai Lama, disguised as a soldier, on March 19, 1959.
To mark the day, an event was organised by the members of the Tibetan community. Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virender Bhat Sharma along with councillors Neha Kumari and Vishal Thakur and a large number of members of the Tibetan community were present at this event.
Addressing the gathering, the Mayor expressed empathy towards the suffering of the Tibetan people, likening it to the pain of seeking Independence. “Just as India celebrates the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence today, the people of Tibet will also celebrate their freedom, acknowledging the significant role of India in their struggle for freedom,” he said.
He emphasised the pivotal role of the Indian government in the global recognition of India, paralleling it with its contribution to Tibetan freedom. He strongly condemned the atrocities inflicted by China on the Tibetan people and assured continuous support for their well-being from the Municipal Corporation. He also appealed to the Indian government to confer the Bharat Ratna upon the Dalai Lama.
“China’s cruel crackdown on the religious liberty, cultural heritage and freedom of speech of Tibetan men, women and children remains a challenge to the conscience of the world. Yet, even after decades of outrageous oppression, their faith, hope and persistence continue to empower the Tibetan people in their fight for their fundamental human rights. Their tireless efforts remain an inspiration to all peace-loving people around the world,” said Thupten Hara, a Tibetan refugee.
