Arunachal Pradesh CM’s Views on the Next Dalai Lama
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently shared his thoughts on the succession of the next Dalai Lama, emphasizing that the future spiritual leader will not be from China but from a free and democratic nation.
Selection Process and Hope for the Current Dalai Lama
Khandu mentioned that the selection process for the next Dalai Lama commences after the current one passes away. He expressed his prayers for the 14th Dalai Lama’s longevity, stating that His Holiness predicted he would live up to 130 years during his 90th birthday celebration.
Uncertainty Regarding Selection Details
As a follower of the Dalai Lama and a Buddhist himself, Khandu admitted not knowing the specifics of how the next Dalai Lama will be chosen. He highlighted an established procedure for the selection but refrained from speculating on the birth region or location.
He asserted that the next Dalai Lama will be born in a world that respects freedom and democracy, ruling out the possibility of it being from China due to the lack of democracy in the country.
Search for the 15th Dalai Lama
The Gaden Phodrang Trust, as mentioned by the chief minister, will be responsible for conducting the search for the 15th Dalai Lama. However, Khandu clarified that this process will only begin after the current Dalai Lama’s passing, indicating no rush in the succession procedure.
China’s Stance and Institution Continuation
Khandu addressed China’s objections to the Dalai Lama’s succession issue, mentioning the lack of a Dalai Lama institution in the country. He noted that the institution has a long history of over 600 years, dominated by Tibetan Buddhists in the Himalayan region.
Despite speculations on the institution’s continuity and the gender of the next Dalai Lama, Khandu reassured that the heads of Buddhist traditions have confirmed the institution will persist post the 90th birthday of the current Dalai Lama.
