How the next Dalai Lama will be chosen — and where India stands

10 months ago

The Dalai Lama earlier this week affirmed that his institution will continue beyond his lifetime and stated unequivocally that the sole authority of choosing a successor lies with his private office. An endorsement of this statement by a senior Indian minister has ruffled feathers in India-China relations. India's external affairs ministry has since clarified that the country does not hold an official position on the Dalai Lama's succession, viewing it as a religious matter.

India's minority affairs minister Kiren Rijiju, who backed the Dalai Lama's decision on succession, attended the lifelong offering ceremony for the spiritual leader on the eve of his birthday on Saturday (July 5), a day before he turned 90. Rijiju’s support drew a stern warning from China, which said any interference by India in matters related to Tibet and the Dalai Lama could strain bilateral ties.

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