On May 30, 2024, Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a Member of Parliament from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and a prominent supporter of the Tibetan cause, paid a significant visit to the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile in Dharamshala. Dr. Shashi Tharoor, known for his distinguished career as a former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and former Under Secretary General for the UN, led a delegation that met with key figures of the Tibetan parliament.
Warm Reception and Guided Tour:
The delegation, led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor, was warmly welcomed by Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, members of the Standing Committee, and the Public Accounts Committee upon their arrival. Accompanied by parliamentarian Youdon Aukatsang, Dr. Tharoor received a guided tour of the parliament hall. This tour provided an insightful glimpse into the workings of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.
Dr. Shashi Tharoor Meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama:
Earlier in the day, Dr. Tharoor and his delegation were honored with an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. During this meeting, the Dalai Lama emphasized the importance of religious harmony. Dr. Tharoor highlighted the diversity of his delegation, which included individuals from Hindu, Muslim, and Christian backgrounds, underscoring a shared commitment to religious tolerance and unity.
Dr. Shashi Tharoor Acknowledgement of Support:
In a welcoming address, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Tharoor’s unwavering support for the Tibetan cause. She acknowledged his active involvement in meeting delegations from the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile during their advocacy visits to Delhi. The Deputy Speaker urged Dr. Tharoor to continue his support with the same vigor, recalling his valuable presence at the 8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet in Washington DC in 2022. She also encouraged his participation in the upcoming 9th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet.
Advocacy and Environmental Significance:
Deputy Speaker Tsering Teykhang briefed the delegation on the Tibetan Parliament’s advocacy program across various Indian states. She highlighted the critical significance of Tibet in the context of environmental conservation national stability, and water resource management. Her remarks underscored the broader implications of the Tibetan cause, extending beyond political dimensions to include ecological and humanitarian concerns.
Dr. Shashi Tharoor’s Commitment:
Dr. Shashi Tharoor reiterated the enduring support that Tibet and its people have received from the Indian government and its citizens, transcending political affiliations. He reflected on the historical context of India’s reception of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees in 1959, noting how the Dalai Lama has since spread messages of love and compassion globally. Dr. Tharoor’s involvement as a member of the International Network of Parliamentarians on Tibet (INPaT) further solidifies his commitment to advocating for the Tibetan cause.
Conclusion:
Dr. Shashi Tharoor’s visit to the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile highlights his steadfast support for the Tibetan cause and his dedication to fostering a deeper understanding and solidarity between India and Tibet. His engagement with Tibetan leaders and His Holiness the Dalai Lama reinforces the importance of religious harmony, environmental conservation, and continued advocacy for Tibetan rights and freedoms. This visit serves as a testament to the enduring bonds between the Indian and Tibetan communities and their shared commitment to peace and compassion.
