Tibetan Succession: Dalai Lama's Authority Affirmed by Indian Minister

India's Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized the decision on the Dalai Lama's incarnation rests solely with the Dalai Lama and the established institution, following a Chinese statement disputing this. Rijiju reaffirmed the Dalai Lama's pivotal role for Buddhists during the leader's 90th birthday celebrations.

In a move that may strain diplomatic ties, Indian Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju declared that the succession decision of the Dalai Lama rests with the Dalai Lama himself and the established institution, dismissing external interference.

The statement came after China negated the Nobel laureate's future succession plans, demanding any successor receive their endorsement. Rijiju's assertion protects the autonomy of the Gaden Phodrang Trust in recognizing the spiritual leader's reincarnation.

Rijiju, a devout Buddhist, was in Dharamshala to participate in the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations, underscoring the leader's significant influence on the global Buddhist community.

(With inputs from agencies.)