May 20, 2024
Tenzin (L), senior administrator of Wonto Monastery and village official
Tamdrin (R), both from Wangbuding township, Dege county. Photo RFA

Two Tibetan figures, a monastery leader and a village official, have been moved to a larger detention center in Sichuan, China, after protesting against a controversial dam project.

Radio Free Asia reports that Tenzin, from Wonto Monastery, and village official Tamdrin were among over a thousand people arrested for opposing the dam on the Drichu River.

The arrests on February 23 followed peaceful appeals to stop the construction, threatening the displacement of villages and destruction of monasteries.

ALSO READ: Around 40 Tibetans Released After Protests Against Dam Project

Despite the release of some detainees on February 27, severe movement restrictions remain, and communication with the outside world is heavily monitored.

Chinese authorities are intensifying their efforts to suppress dissent, regularly inspecting residents’ social media for any shared footage of the protests. The situation in Dege County has been described as an “open prison” by sources, with locals facing daily searches and interrogations.

The Gangtuo Dam, part of a larger hydropower complex, continues to face opposition from Tibetans and international advocates calling for the immediate release of those detained. This situation has prompted solidarity rallies globally, highlighting ongoing repression in Tibet.

This development signals a pressing need for dialogue and respect for the rights and heritage of the Tibetan people.

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