The Satyagraha debate is slowly assuming a distinct form and consistency. One by one, fundamental questions are emerging. On the other hand, the decision taken by Prof. Samdhong Rinpoch and the "Akhil Bharat Rachnatimak Samaj" organization of New Delhi to begin "their own" Satyagraha adds a new importance to the debate. I call it "their own" Satyagraha because this is what they have named it, but also because, despite repeated efforts, during which time the invite to discuss and debate upon the content of this nonviolent movement without historical precedent (which includes participation in this debate), we encountered only silence. At this point, even with a profound respect for those who have chosen to further the struggle in this way, we must clearly state that we cannot be a part of it. This is due in part to the fact that we are firmly convinced that, in an international context, the front line of this battle can be nothing other today than the entirety of the democratic nations and international i

nstitutions. More than ever, we must unite our goals of "Freedom for Tibet" and "Democracy for China." We have a vision, a concept, and, more than anything, a profoundly nonviolent and secular practice.

At this point, and with a wish for every possible success for those who have chosen a path different from ours, it is up to each one of us, Tibetan and non-Tibetan, to end chapter and try and understand if we have done everything necessary to understand the reasons of others and to communicate one's convictions. We warmly invite you to do so here in order to provide a new start to this debate and to accelerate time so that we may begin the working transcription of our communal hopes.

(Published by FREEDOM FOR TIBET/DEMOCRACY IN CHINA ! - Number 65 - 3O September, 1997)