‘No one has right to interfere’: Kiren Rijiju on China’s objections to Dalai Lama succession plans

New Delhi, July 3, 2025 — In a strong rebuttal to China’s recent objections over the succession plans of the 14th Dalai Lama, Union Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju asserted that no foreign country has the right to interfere in religious matters intrinsic to Tibetan Buddhism. The statement marks a significant diplomatic stance by India amidst rising geopolitical sensitivities in the region.

China's Remarks on Succession Trigger Diplomatic Response

Beijing, earlier this week, reiterated its long-standing claim that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must adhere to Chinese laws and administrative procedures. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson labeled any external involvement in the selection of the Tibetan spiritual leader as “illegal and invalid.”

In response, Rijiju, a prominent leader from Arunachal Pradesh and former Law Minister, stated, “The reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a deeply spiritual and religious process rooted in Tibetan Buddhist traditions. No government or country has the right to interfere.”

Rijiju emphasized that the matter should be left entirely to the Buddhist community and the Dalai Lama’s own wishes. “India respects all faiths and traditions. Attempts to politicize religious succession undermine spiritual freedoms,” he added.

Historical and Geopolitical Context

The Dalai Lama, currently based in Dharamshala, India, fled Tibet in 1959 following the Chinese occupation. Since then, China has consistently viewed the Nobel Peace laureate as a separatist, despite his long-standing commitment to peaceful resolution and autonomy within the Chinese framework.

China's assertion that it must approve the next Dalai Lama is rooted in its 2007 regulations on reincarnations, which require government permission for any tulku (reincarnated lama) to be recognized. However, Tibetan Buddhist leaders and global rights groups have condemned these rules as a gross overreach into spiritual matters.

Analysts Weigh In: Religious Freedom vs. State Control

Commenting on the issue, Dr. Tenzin Norbu, a political analyst specializing in Tibetan affairs at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said, “The reincarnation issue is symbolic of China’s broader control over Tibetan culture and religious institutions. Rijiju’s statement sends a clear message of India’s non-negotiable stand on spiritual freedom.”

He added, “India’s public backing of the Dalai Lama is significant diplomatically, especially given the backdrop of strained Sino-Indian relations following border skirmishes and security concerns.”

Implications for India-China Relations

The issue of Dalai Lama’s succession is not merely spiritual; it carries significant geopolitical weight. China has tried to gain global legitimacy for its chosen Panchen Lama—who traditionally identifies the Dalai Lama's reincarnation—while the legitimate Panchen Lama, selected by the Dalai Lama in 1995, remains missing since his detention by Chinese authorities.

India’s response underscores its strategic pivot. By defending the Dalai Lama’s autonomy, New Delhi subtly challenges Beijing’s narrative and reaffirms support for the Tibetan cause—without overtly altering its One-China policy.

A senior MEA official, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted, “While India maintains formal adherence to the One-China policy, it reserves the right to speak against coercive tactics infringing upon religious and cultural freedoms.”

Market Context and Investor Outlook

Although this diplomatic tension doesn’t directly impact markets in the short term, analysts suggest that geopolitical developments could influence foreign direct investment (FDI) sentiment, especially in sectors with China exposure.

Ajay Kedia, Head of Research at Kedia Advisory, said, “Geopolitical flashpoints involving China always cast a shadow on investor sentiment, particularly in emerging markets. However, India’s firm yet balanced stance reassures global investors of its commitment to democratic values.”

The broader market has shown resilience, with the Nifty 50 holding above 24,000 and the Sensex nearing record highs. Sectors like defense, infrastructure, and semiconductors—areas where India seeks strategic autonomy—may see increased investor interest if tensions persist.

The Road Ahead: Autonomy, Identity, and Diplomacy

As the Dalai Lama, now 90, continues to travel and preach globally, the question of his successor becomes increasingly urgent. The spiritual leader himself has stated he may not reincarnate or could do so outside of Chinese-controlled territory.

India’s vocal defense of Tibetan autonomy—especially from a minister hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, a state China claims as “South Tibet”—adds another layer to the complex puzzle of Himalayan geopolitics.

With global eyes watching the eventual succession process, India’s latest stand may not only define its Tibet policy but also shape regional diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific.