[an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive]

Press Release

Contact:
Thubten Samphel (Secretary)
Sonam Dagpo (Secretary)
Department of Information and International Relations
Central Tibetan Administration, Dharamsala
Tel: (+91 1892) 222510,222457,224662

Dharamsala 27 October:"The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) expresses pleasure over the reported release of Geshe Sonam Phuntsok after his prison term of five years", said Kalon Thupten Lungrik, acting Kalon Tripa and Kalon for the Departments of Religion and Culture and Education. "The CTA hopes that other Tibetans, who have been imprisoned for expressing their religious beliefs and rights as enshrined in the Chinese constitution, will also be released soon", he said.

According to the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, Geshe Sonam Phuntsok was arrested by the Chinese authorities on 25th October 1999 for carrying out religious activities and for offering a long life prayer for His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

"We are extremely concerned about the ill health of Geshe Sonam Phuntsok", said Kalon Thupten Lungrik. "We hope that the Chinese authorities will give an opportunity for Geshe Sonam Phuntsok to receive a proper medical treatment."

Geshe Sonam Phuntsok is a highly respected Tibetan spiritual leader and his spiritual activities in Kardze attracted large and growing followers. Geshe Sonam Phuntsok was based at Dhargay Monastery in Rongbatsa District but often travelled to monasteries and remote villages throughout Kardze County to conduct religious ceremonies and teachings. In 1996, Geshe visited India on pilgrimage during which he sought an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Email this article  Email This Article | Printer friendly version  Printer version | Other news  |  Top   |  Home

[an error occurred while processing this directive]