Tibetan Exiles Reject China’s Claim on Dalai Lama Reincarnation

Tibetans in exile have strongly condemned remarks by a China-occupied Tibet's official claiming Beijing has the final say over the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation. Leaders, activists, and Central Tibetan Administration officials denounced the statement as Chinese propaganda, asserting the decision lies solely with the Dalai Lama. Activist Tenzin Tsundue called the official a “Chinese puppet,” while Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering challenged China’s legitimacy to control Tibet, citing its 1959 invasion. CTA spokesperson Tenzin Lekshay stressed that an atheist government cannot interfere in religious matters and accused Beijing of using Tibetan officials to gain false legitimacy.