Letter sent to Indian Govt for protection

[Mana]

The letter here is self explantory. What is sad are the Monasteries need protection from the Dalai Lama and entourage. What has happened to come to this?

The Dalai Lama is a symbol of compassion and peace, within the Tibetan communities, it seems he is very much feared. The ban has turned one Tibetan against another. One monk against another. Students to reject their teachers. Schism within the sangha (Serpom, Shar Gaden) where great number of Sangha have been expelled or by no choice leave their monasteries to set up their own. The persecution is extreme. In this day and age religion should bring everyone closer, not become the reason to discriminate.

Mana

[WisdomBeing]

The fact that monks have to call on the secular world - the police and the government of India - for help and protection is quite sad. It reflects on the sheer helplessness of this community who cannot appeal to their so-called government in exile for help.

All those who think that persecution of Shugden practitioners in the Tibetan refugee camps are a figment of their imagination should read this earnest letter and watch the videos of monks who weep because they are told they cannot practice. Watch the videos also of the Dalai Lama who says there is no ban. If there is no ban, there would not be a need for a letter like this. Unfortunately it is very real and people are suffering. Even if you do not believe in Dorje Shugden, even if you are not a Buddhist, if you believe in religious freedom, please spare a thought for those who do believe but are ostracised, physically abused and threatened for it.

[thaimonk]

The fact that monks have to call on the secular world - the police and the government of India - for help and protection is quite sad. It reflects on the sheer helplessness of this community who cannot appeal to their so-called government in exile for help.

All those who think that persecution of Shugden practitioners in the Tibetan refugee camps are a figment of their imagination should read this earnest letter and watch the videos of monks who weep because they are told they cannot practice. Watch the videos also of the Dalai Lama who says there is no ban. If there is no ban, there would not be a need for a letter like this. Unfortunately it is very real and people are suffering. Even if you do not believe in Dorje Shugden, even if you are not a Buddhist, if you believe in religious freedom, please spare a thought for those who do believe but are ostracised, physically abused and threatened for it.

I haven't a single word to add to what is written here. It is so clear and absolutely hits the nail on the head. Discrimination should be stopped immediately.

[DharmaDefender]

The fact that monks have to call on the secular world - the police and the government of India - for help and protection is quite sad. It reflects on the sheer helplessness of this community who cannot appeal to their so-called government in exile for help.

WB, sadder still that they are calling for protection from other Buddhist practitioners.

Do we know what the Indian government's response was?

[LosangKhyentse]

Do we know what the Indian government's response was?

The Indian govt responded very positively. During the recent visit of Dalai Lama in Gaden, they had police stationed in Shar Gaden Monastery. Also high ranking police officers were guests of Shar Gaden Monastery. The high ranking police stayed in Shar Gaden during the whole duration of Dalai lama's visit. Shar Gaden provided room, board and meals for the officers. Because of this protection, there was no incidence that was untowards towards Shar Gaden Monastery. Dalai Lama did not say much against Shugden in Gaden Monastery on this visit. Perhaps the presence of the police so nearby sent strong messages to the Dalai Lama.

TK

[DharmaDefender]

Do we know what the Indian government's response was?

Dalai Lama did not say much against Shugden in Gaden Monastery on this visit. Perhaps the presence of the police so nearby sent strong messages to the Dalai Lama.

TK

I find that quite telling actually because of the timing. Since the visit took place just before the Dalai Lama announced his intention to retire, if he had really been serious about suppressing Dorje Shugden, he could have used that visit for one final push of his message, regardless of what the Indian government does or says. And when I say serious about suppressing, I mean for suppression's sake, and not to promote Dorje Shugden.

Because honestly speaking, what can the police do to him for speaking against Dorje Shugden? Can you imagine the scandal if they arrested him for speaking against Dorje Shugden again? Them, arresting the Dalai Lama? They would look like fools.

But you know, I'm happy to hear the response was positive and the Indian government took Shar Gaden's concerns seriously.