The New York Times

Friday, July 2, 1999

Dalai Lama Cancels Birthday Plans

By The Associated Press

NEW DELHI, India (AP) -- Celebrations of the Dalai Lama's 64th birthday have been canceled in sympathy with the Indian armed forces fighting intruders in Kashmir.

A July 6 reception in New Delhi has been canceled, as well as other celebrations, according to the announcement Friday from Tashi N. Phuntsok, a spokesman for the exiled Tibetan religious and political leader.

``By not holding any festivities or receptions on this day, the Tibetan people wish to express their sympathy and solidarity with the government and people of India,'' said Phuntsok. He said there was special sympathy ``for the Indian armed forces who are sacrificing their lives ... to regain and protect India's territory.''

The Dalai Lama and more than 100,000 Tibetans fled into India in 1959 after a crackdown in Tibet by the Chinese. The Tibetans live in the northern Indian town of Dharmsala.