Guwahati, Aug 8 (IANS) Members of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress (RTYC) in Gangtok on Saturday organised a peaceful rally in Sikkim’s capital as part of a global chain of protests led by the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), voicing concerns over the situation in Tibet and opposing China’s controversial ‘Ethnic Unity Law’.
The demonstration brought together members of the RTYC and local supporters, who raised slogans and carried messages highlighting their concerns over what they described as increasing political and cultural repression in Tibet.
The protesters also paid tribute to Martyr Lobga Rangzen, who, according to the organisers, self-immolated in front of the United Nations Headquarters to draw international attention to the situation in Tibet.
Remembering Rangzen’s sacrifice, the participants reiterated their demands for justice, freedom and greater international attention to the concerns of Tibetans.
During the rally, the protesters criticised China’s ‘Ethnic Unity Law’, alleging that the legislation could further accelerate the assimilation of ethnic communities living under Chinese rule.
They claimed that such measures could pose a threat to the preservation of Tibetans’ distinct national identity, language, religious practices and cultural heritage.
The RTYC members urged the international community, particularly the United Nations, to take greater cognisance of what they described as a continuing human rights crisis in Tibet.
The protesters also called for accountability for alleged political repression and demanded the release of political prisoners.
They reiterated their call for the protection of Tibetans’ fundamental rights and freedoms, while urging governments and international organisations to maintain focus on developments in Tibet.
The Gangtok rally was part of a wider series of demonstrations organised by Tibetan groups in different parts of the world.
The protests are aimed at highlighting concerns over China’s policies in Tibet and seeking greater international support for the Tibetan cause.
The organisers said the peaceful nature of the demonstration reflected their commitment to raising awareness through democratic and non-violent means.
Participants maintained that the global movement for justice, freedom and the protection of Tibetan identity remains united, and urged the international community to continue supporting efforts to safeguard Tibet’s cultural and political rights.
–IANS
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