China Protests Modi’s Dalai Lama Birthday Greetings
China has lodged a diplomatic protest with India after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday greetings to the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Beijing considers such gestures as a violation of its internal affairs and accused the Indian government of sending “wrong signals” to the world regarding the status of Tibet. Chinese officials have repeatedly maintained that the Dalai Lama is a separatist and warned against political recognition of him in any form.
Beijing Warns Against Interference in Tibet Affairs
China’s foreign ministry condemned the public celebrations and accused India of meddling in Tibet-related issues. Beijing emphasized that the Dalai Lama is not just a religious figure but a political exile engaging in activities to split China. The protest also pointed at the presence of Indian ministers during the birthday commemorations, which China interpreted as a state-backed endorsement of the Tibetan cause.
India Firm on Its Position Regarding the Dalai Lama
Indian officials stood by the Prime Minister’s gesture, describing it as a personal message of goodwill to a globally respected spiritual leader. Political leaders reiterated that the Dalai Lama enjoys widespread admiration in India and that any decisions about his succession or role are solely for the Tibetan people and religious community to determine. India has consistently stated that it considers the Dalai Lama a revered guest, and there has been no change in this position.
Tensions Add to Ongoing Diplomatic Strain
The protest comes amid already tense relations between India and China, especially in the backdrop of border standoffs and increasing Indian engagement with the Tibetan issue. China’s reaction reflects its long-standing policy of rigid control over Tibetan religious and political matters. While India has treaded cautiously in the past, recent developments suggest a willingness to take a more assertive stand, even if it draws Beijing’s ire.
What Lies Ahead
The strong reaction from China once again highlights the sensitive nature of Tibet in its foreign policy. Whether India continues to engage more visibly with the Tibetan leadership and reinforces its democratic support for Tibetan autonomy could determine the next phase of its bilateral relations with China. For now, the diplomatic standoff over a birthday wish is a reminder that in geopolitics, even symbolic gestures carry weight.
