The Tension Over the Dalai Lama's Successor

The potential successor to the Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists, is a matter of global interest. His succession, governed by Tibetan traditions, faces interference from China and evokes strategic implications involving India and the U.S. Tensions lie over China's desire to control the succession process.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 30-06-2025 09:02 IST | Created: 30-06-2025 09:02 IST
The Tension Over the Dalai Lama's Successor
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The impending choice of the Dalai Lama's successor holds significant global implications, particularly for China, India, and the United States. The spiritual leader's matter extends beyond religion into strategic geopolitics.

Historically, Tibetan Buddhists select a new Dalai Lama based on reincarnation traditions. However, Chinese authorities assert their right to approve the choice, aiming to influence the process, a claim resisted by both Tibetans and international allies like the U.S.

India, hosting the exiled Dalai Lama and over 100,000 Tibetan Buddhists, plays a crucial role. The United States has indicated its support for Tibetan autonomy, complicating its rivalry with China and supporting Tibetans' human rights amid these unfolding geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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