As External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar prepares for a pivotal visit to China—the first since the 2020 border clashes—Beijing has conspicuously rebuked India over Tibetan issues, branding Dalai Lama‘s succession dispute a potential “thorn” in bilateral relations.
Chinese Embassy Strikes Hard Tone
On July 13, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in New Delhi told X (formerly Twitter) that “Xizang-related issues are a thorn in China–India relations and have become a burden for India.” The rebuke followed comments supporting the Dalai Lama’s right to manage his own reincarnation, seen in Beijing as direct interference in its internal affairs .
Deputy spokesperson Yu Jing emphasized that succession of the Dalai Lama is “inherently an internal affair of China, brooking no interference of any external forces,” and warned that those making “improper remarks” risked “shooting oneself in the foot” .
Diplomatic Context Ahead of Jaishankar Visit
India and China have been cautiously rebuilding ties—resuming direct flights and Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimages after a multi-year freeze, recently brokered via foreign secretary-level diplomacy . Jaishankar’s planned visit to Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit marks a strategic thaw. However, the Chinese embassy’s comments signal Beijing will not tolerate Indian advocacy on Tibet crossings.
The Dalai Lama Succession Contention
The 14th Dalai Lama, who turns 90 this year, has clearly stated his reincarnation will follow traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices and be determined by his own trust—not Beijing—provoking China’s ire
Former Indian minister Kiren Rijiju—speaking as a Buddhist—echoed this belief, stating that the successor should be chosen by Tibetan religious tradition and the Dalai Lama himself. He later clarified he was not speaking for the government .
India has reaffirmed it has no official policy on the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, despite hosting him since 1959.
Strategic Leverage or Diplomatic Misstep?
The Dalai Lama remains a key advocate for Tibetans in exile, with around 70,000 living in India under the Central Tibetan Administration based in Dharamshala.
Analysts suggest India’s handling of the succession issue may give it limited strategic leverage amid high-altitude border tensions. Yet, it could also provoke Beijing, threatening the cautious progress that has followed the disengagement in Eastern Ladakh .
Tensions remain high. Beijing’s rebuke underscores that any public stance on Tibet could complicate India–China diplomatic efforts.
Stakes and Perspectives
- China’s Warning: Strong stance that Tibet succession is a domestic Chinese issue.
- India’s Delicate Position: Balances diplomatic restraint with a democratic ethos of respecting the Dalai Lama’s religious freedom without officially intervening.
- Bilateral Implications: Any perceived pro-Tibet position by India may hinder ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen best bilateral ties following 2020 hostilities.
- India’s Strategic Leverage: The Tibetan presence in India remains a global human rights issue and strategic counterpoint to Chinese assertions along the Himalayan frontier.
What to Watch During Jaishankar’s Visit
- Diplomatic messaging – Will Jaishankar address Tibet or limit discussions to border and trade?
- China’s response – Will Beijing escalate beyond diplomatic rhetoric if Tibet resurfaces as a talking point?
- Progress on cooperation – Will agreements on direct flights and pilgrimage be reinforced despite tension?
India’s approach will be closely scrutinized by international observers, especially given the rising global focus on Tibet’s cultural and political autonomy. Any shift in tone—either conciliatory or assertive—may redefine not just the Indo-China relationship, but also influence regional geopolitics, especially as India seeks stronger strategic partnerships across Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
Conclusion
As S. Jaishankar heads to China, the Tibetan succession dispute remains a sensitive flashpoint—locked in Beijing’s framing as a “thorn” in the bilateral relationship. India, upholding democratic values and hosting the Dalai Lama, must navigate the tightrope between principled support and diplomatic restraint. The success of the visit may hinge on India’s ability to uphold religious freedoms without disrupting what remains a fragile but essential bilateral rapprochement.
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