Published by: World Tibet Network News, Monday, March 11, 1996

Submitted by: sdargyay@tibetnet.ernet.in (TibetNet Project)

New Delhi, March 11, 1996, (TYC) -- On 11th March 1996, Tibetan Youth Congress members representing 17 regional Tibetan Youth Congress chapters participated in today's hunger strike organized by Tibetan Youth Congress Centrex. There were a total of over 400 participants including from Nepal. Some of the banners read like, Respect human right in Tibet, Cheers to Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the youngest political prisoner of Tibet, Long live 11th Panchen Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, Tibet belongs to Tibetans. Our major issue which has been prominent portrait of young Panchen Lama as "Release Panchen Lama".

The hunger strike was started by praying Dentsik Monlam (meaning word of truth) followed by an address by Mr. Tseten Norbu, President, Tibetan Youth Congress. He said "the development in occupied Tibet regarding imposing of fake Panchen is a calculated move by the Chinese with ultimate aim on the institution of Dalai Lama itself". He further added that if they were successful in imposing a fake Panchen Lama the consequences consider the institution of Dalai Lama. As such Mr. Pema Lhundup read the memorandum sent to United Nation Human Right Commissioner, Geneva, Switzerland.

In the afternoon Indian journalist, Indian leaders and representatives of Indian organizations supporting Tibetan issue represented and address the gathering.

Mr.Von. Sponeck, resident representative, United Nations Development Programme has said "I respect the Tibetan people and will forward your memorandum to the commissioner, UN human right commission, Geneva and I will work as bridge between UN and you". He further added that you are protesting the human right violations and not working for personal gains, therefore I support your course but I cannot guarantee anything except forwarding your petition to Geneva. He said he wished good luck to everyone.

The one day hunger strike was ended with kind presence of Shri Mohan Singh MP, offering cold drinks to Mr. Tseten Norbu, President Tibetan Youth Congress. He said "Tibetans and Indians are brothers and as such it is the duty of Indians to help the Tibetan brothers who are in need. He further said that, if the parliament is not in session we would have joint the Tibetan hunger strike for the whole day.

Tseten Norbu

PRESIDENT