New Delhi, Jul 6 (PTI) The Congress on Monday greeted the Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday and took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he may have had "compulsions for not doing so".

"We waited for Hon'ble @PMOIndia to lead the nation in wishing HE the Dalai Lama a very Happy Birthday. Modi ji may have had his compulsions for not doing so. On behalf of the entire Nation, we wish HE @DalaiLama a long and healthy life. We are privileged for your blessings," Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu Shocker: Burnt Body of Teenage Girl Found in Trichy's Ettari Village, Police Begin Probe.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju earlier in the day conveyed his greetings to the Tibetan spiritual leader and said his values and ideals are the guiding light towards love and peace for entire humanity.

Rijiju is the only minister in the Narendra Modi government to have wished the Dalai Lama publicly on his birthday.

Also Read | Realme Narzo 10 Online Sale Tomorrow at 12 PM IST Via Flipkart & Official Website; Prices, Offers, Features & Specifications.

The Union sports minister's birthday greetings came amidst India's ongoing border standoff with China.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)