to Dege county. Photo via RFA
In Kham Derge of Tibet, province officials have instructed ethnic Tibetans and monastery leaders to keep the peace after arresting over a thousand people for protesting against a proposed hydropower dam, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reports. The Gangtuo Dam, if constructed on the Drichu River, threatens to flood monasteries and displace villagers in Derge County’s Wangbuding township.
A source from Derge, now living in exile, shared with RFA that Chinese officials demanded compliance with the government’s plans during meetings in Wonto village. Derge County Party Secretary Baima Zhaxi emphasized the need for “stability” and legal compliance in meetings with Buddhist leaders and villagers.
As China’s major political sessions, known as the Two Sessions, convene in Beijing, Zhaxi’s message underscores the government’s priority on harmony and stability, especially before Tibetan Uprising Day on March 10. This date marks the anniversary of the 1959 uprising against China’s rule and the Dalai Lama’s exile.
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During his visit to the dam site, Zhaxi advised the coordination team to continue their work and highlighted the dam’s significance. He urged locals to express their demands lawfully, warning of legal action against those crossing the line.
The February 23 police crackdown on dam protesters has led to heightened security in Derge and surrounding areas. Sources in exile report strict surveillance and communication bans in the region. This follows rare footage of police violence against Tibetan monks, sparking international outcry and solidarity rallies worldwide.
Despite some monks’ recent release, the situation remains tense, with global leaders and advocacy groups demanding the release of all detained protesters.
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