From: Australia Tibet Council 11 December 1995

Published by: World Tibet Network News, Sunday - December 17, 1995

MELBOURNE, Australia, (Herald-Sun, 11 December 1995) - Melbourne's Tibetan community marked yesterday's International Human Rights Day by protesting against the disappearance of one of its state's most important religious and political leaders. About 50 people gathered outside the Chinese Consulate in Toorak, alleging the Chinese Government was responsible for kidnapping a six-year old boy nominated as the reincarnation of the Panchen Lama, who is second only to the Dalai Lama in religious importance.

The boy, Gendun Choekyi Nyima, was last seen in Tibet in May. "This interference by the Chinese Government is not because they are concerned about the Panchen Lama ... this is just part of their policy to wipe out the Tibetan race, culture and religion," Victorian Tibetan community leader Sandup Tsering said. "I demand the Chinese Government immediately release the six-year-old by and let him take the seat of his monastery as soon as possible."

The Dalai Lama, who is in exile in India, said in a statement: "I appeal to all governments, religious and human rights organisations for their intervention in ensuring the safety and freedom of the young Panchen Lama." 9Other events organised by the Australia Tibet Council as part of its nationwide campaign for the Panchen Lama's release included a demonstration in the nation's capital, Canberra, and an interfaith service for freedom of religion and the people of Tibet in Sydney. Events were also held in Adelaide, Brisbane and Hobart.)