China Opposes Indian Remarks on Dalai Lama Reincarnation, Reaffirms Sole Authority

New Delhi — China has strongly objected to recent comments made by an Indian official regarding the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, labeling the matter as a strictly internal affair of China.

In a statement posted on social media, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong reiterated that Xizang (Tibet) is an “inalienable part of China” and emphasized that Tibetan Buddhism originated and developed within Chinese territory, particularly in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Ambassador Xu firmly stated that the conferment of religious titles — including that of the Dalai Lama — falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the central government in Beijing. He added that no foreign individuals or organizations would be permitted to interfere in or influence the reincarnation process.

“China strictly abides by its national laws in managing the reincarnation of Living Buddhas, including the Dalai Lama,” Xu said, underscoring that the country upholds the principles of religious self-governance and independence.

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The remarks come amid longstanding tensions between China and India over Tibet, border disputes, and the presence of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the 14th Dalai Lama, in India since 1959.