As the world commemorates 65 years since the Tibetan rebellion on March 10th, demonstrations across global capitals, from Delhi to Dharamshala, underscore the enduring spirit of resistance against China’s repressive regime.
A growing movement has started within the Chinese-occupied Tibet region. Triggered by China’s plans to erect a dam in Wongpo Tok city of Dige County, protestors rally against the impending demolition of the region’s historic and sacred monasteries.
Recently, approximately 1000 Tibetan citizens staged a demonstration outside the Eastern Tibet (Sichuan Province) headquarters of the Dige Administration. In response, Chinese authorities ruthlessly dispersed the protesters, leading to the arrest of nearly 100 individuals, including religious leaders from the Vonto Monastery. Alarming footage depicting Chinese officers clad in black are seen forcibly subduing demonstrators surfaced, amplifying global attention on the escalating tensions.
Reports in the public domain reveal that while 40 detainees have been released under strict conditions, forbidding any involvement in future protests or dissemination of protest-related materials, a pervasive atmosphere of surveillance looms over Tibetan social media platforms and communities.
This resurgence of Tibetan dissent against the Chinese Communist government stems from mounting grievances surrounding stringent security measures and pervasive surveillance policies enforced by Xi Jinping’s administration. Unlike previous sporadic movements, notably the 2021 protests following the suspicious death of a Tibetan youth, this current wave of unrest exhibits remarkable resilience and international solidarity.
Central to the discord is China’s relentless exploitation of Tibet’s abundant natural resources, epitomized by the construction of colossal infrastructure projects like the 13-story, 13900 MW Kamtok (Kham Dige) Dam on the Drichu (Yangtse) river. Local Tibetans fear not only displacement but also the imminent threat of flooding to cherished landmarks, including the 13th-century Wonto Monastery, revered for its profound historical and religious significance.
Beyond Tibet’s borders, Tibetan diaspora communities, including those in India, mobilize in solidarity, amplifying the global outcry against CCP’s oppressive policies. With protests coinciding with the upcoming anniversary of the Tibetan uprising, the Chinese administration intensifies efforts to suppress dissent, reflecting on their historical tactics to quell resistance.
