India Rejects China’s Claim Over Dalai Lama’s Reincarnation, Says Only He Can Decide
Dharamshala, 3rd July 2025: In a firm response to China’s assertion that it must approve the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, India on Thursday clarified that the authority to choose the Tibetan spiritual leader’s successor lies solely with the Dalai Lama himself.
Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who is currently in Dharamshala to participate in the 90th birthday celebrations of the Dalai Lama, stressed that the revered Buddhist figure holds global spiritual significance. “The Dalai Lama’s spiritual legacy is not only vital for the Tibetan community but for millions of his followers worldwide. The decision regarding his successor rests entirely with him,” Rijiju stated.
Rijiju is joined by Janata Dal (United) leader Lallan Singh, both attending the commemorative events as official representatives of the Indian government. “This is purely a spiritual and religious event,” Rijiju added, distancing the occasion from political undertones.
The minister’s remarks come in the backdrop of renewed emphasis from the Dalai Lama’s office that the centuries-old institution will continue after his death. According to a statement released by the Gaden Phodrang Trust, the Dalai Lama’s official institution — the responsibility for identifying the 15th Dalai Lama rests solely with the Trust, as outlined in a public declaration issued on September 24, 2011.
Meanwhile, China has once again asserted its authority over the process. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated that the reincarnation must align with Chinese laws and traditions. “The succession of the Dalai Lama must be carried out in accordance with Chinese regulations and historical customs,” she stated, underscoring Beijing’s intent to control the spiritual lineage.
A Legacy of Resistance and Exile
The Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India since 1959 after escaping Tibet during a failed uprising against Chinese rule. While Beijing continues to label him a separatist aiming to divide China, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate is regarded globally as a symbol of peace and the non-violent Tibetan struggle for religious and cultural survival.
Tibetan exiles have long expressed concern that Beijing may install a state-approved successor in a bid to extend its influence and dilute the independence of the spiritual role. Critics warn such a move would erode the legitimacy of the position and further entrench Chinese control over Tibet, which was annexed in 1950.
In 2011, the Dalai Lama stepped down from his political responsibilities, transferring authority to the elected Central Tibetan Administration, which represents roughly 130,000 Tibetans living in exile. At that time, he also voiced apprehension that the sacred reincarnation process could be politically manipulated.
India’s latest position further solidifies its longstanding support for the Dalai Lama’s autonomy and comes as an important reaffirmation of religious freedom in the face of growing Chinese influence.
