One possible way for India to recognise the office of the Dalai Lama as a religious entity is to invoke the principle of freedom of religion.
The Government of India has a consistent policy of treating the Dalai Lama as a respected religious leader and an honoured guest of the country. India does recognise Tibet as a part of China, and has allowed the Dalai Lama and his followers to establish a government-in-exile in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. India also supports the Dalai Lama’s efforts to seek autonomy for Tibet within China through peaceful dialogue.
However, India has not officially recognised the office of the Dalai Lama as a religious entity, as this could provoke a strong reaction from China, which considers the Dalai Lama as a separatist and a threat to its sovereignty over Tibet. China has also warned India against interfering in its internal affairs and allowing the Dalai Lama to engage in political activities on Indian soil. India has tried to balance its relations with China and its commitment to the Tibetan cause, by avoiding public endorsement of the Dalai Lama’s political status, while maintaining cultural and humanitarian ties with him and his followers.
One possible way for India to recognise the office of the Dalai Lama as a religious entity is to invoke the principle of freedom of religion, which is enshrined in the Indian Constitution. India could argue that the Dalai Lama is not only a spiritual leader, but also a representative of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, which has a long and rich history in India and is an integral part of the country’s cultural diversity. India could also cite the Dalai Lama’s contributions to the promotion of peace, harmony, and interfaith dialogue in the world, and his recognition as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. By doing so, India could assert its sovereignty and democratic values, while respecting the Dalai Lama’s wishes and aspirations for his people.
However, such a move would also entail significant risks and challenges for India, as it could escalate the tensions and conflicts with China, which is a major economic and strategic partner for India. China could retaliate by increasing its military and diplomatic pressure on India, especially along the disputed border areas, where several clashes have occurred in recent years.
China could also seek to undermine India’s interests and influence in the region and beyond, by strengthening its ties with Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other countries. Moreover, India could face criticism and opposition from some of its own political and religious groups, who may view the recognition of the Dalai Lama’s office as a violation of the principle of secularism, or as a favouritism towards a particular community.
Therefore, the question of how and why the Government of India can recognise the office of the Dalai Lama as a religious entity is not a simple one, but rather a complex and sensitive issue, that requires careful consideration and deliberation, taking into account the historical, political, and religious factors involved, as well as the potential implications and consequences for India’s national security and foreign policy.
Khedroob Thondup is the son of Gyalo Thondup, elder brother of the Dalai Lama. Educated at St Stephens College, Delhi University and the University of San Francisco, Khedroob Thondup was Personal Assistant to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and accompanied him on his first trip in 1979 to the U.S. He was sent by the Dalai Lama to Beijing from 1980 till 1993 in dialogue talks. He interacted with Xi Jinping’s father Xi Zhongxun and Hu Jintao. He is President of the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, Darjeeling since 1987.