Parliament holds solidarity vigil on situation in Tibet/eng

2012. február 3./CTA/TibetPress

DHARAMSHALA: The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile issued a statement today expressing solidarity with the sufferings of the Tibetan people inside Tibet after the recent clampdown by Chinese security forces in Ngaba, Tawu, Chamdo, Karze, Golog Darlag and other Tibetan areas.

A Tibetan parliamentary delegation had visited many foreign embassies in New Delhi. They briefed the ambassadors about the critical situation inside Tibet and urged their respective parliaments to make urgent representations to the Chinese government.

The Tibetan Parliament has also called on Tibetans to shun the New Year celebrations on 22 February  as a mark of respect and solidarity with those who sacrificed their lives in Tibet.

‘We ask the Tibetans not to celebrate the New Year on 22 February. We request everyone to pray for those departed souls who passed away as a result of the self-immolations and the brutal Chinese heavy handedness’ the statement said.

“Members of the Tibetan Parliament from the Dharamshala area will observe a fast till 5.00pm at Tsuklakhang on the first day of the New Year to express their solidarity with Tibetans in Tibet,” the statement further added.

Sixteen Tibetans have set themselves on fire in Tibet protesting the Chinese government since March 16 last year. Twelve have died, while the whereabouts and well-being of the remaining four are still unknown.

In 2009, Tapey, a monk of Kirti Monastery, set himself on fire in protest against the wrong policies of the Chinese government. His whereabouts is still unknown.