Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh) [India] April 2 (ANI): Chinese authorities have enforced extensive restrictions and heightened security around Lungngn Monastery in Gade County, Golog, during the ongoing memorial prayer ceremonies for the late Tibetan Buddhist leader Tulku Hungkar Dorje Rinpoche, according to Tibet Times, as cited by Phayul.

As per the report, the monastery has been conducting four-day prayer rituals from March 27 to 30 to mark the completion of Rinpoche's death rites. Throughout this period, a significant presence of Chinese police and military personnel has surrounded the monastery, imposing strict surveillance and heavily limiting the movement, gatherings, and activities of local Tibetans and monastic residents.

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On the opening day of the ceremonies, authorities reportedly removed English-language signboards and inscriptions related to memorial offerings displayed at the monastery's entrance. They also issued strict directives banning monks and laypersons from sharing or circulating photographs, videos, or any information about the ceremonies on digital platforms or through other means. These actions have reportedly created a climate of fear and intimidation.

The crackdown has further included arbitrary detention and alleged abuse. On March 27, a monk identified as Ugyen Jangchup was detained without explanation and taken to the Gade County police station, where he was reportedly subjected to severe beatings before being released around midnight. However, he was later instructed to report to a local detention centre, raising concerns of possible extended detention, according to Tibet Times as cited by Phayul.

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Additional reports indicate that authorities forcibly searched his residence, damaging personal belongings and seizing electronic devices, including his phone and computer. During the search, officials reportedly found an image of the Dalai Lama in his possession. His living quarters were thoroughly inspected, and sources suggest he may be held in detention for over a month or longer, increasing anxiety within the local community.

Tulku Hungkar Dorje Rinpoche was a well-known religious leader and social contributor in Tibet. The son of Tulku Pema Thumpo, the founder of Lungngn Monastery, he devoted his life to education, cultural preservation, and community welfare. In 2004, he founded the Gesar Philanthropic Foundation in what is referred to as Qinghai Province, aiming to promote the preservation of Gesar cultural heritage. Starting in 2007, he established the Hungkar Dorje National Vocational School, which educates around a thousand students, along with approximately 14 primary and secondary schools that provide free education to children from rural and nomadic Tibetan communities, the report highlighted. (ANI)

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