India has clarified that it will not take a position on the succession of the Dalai Lama, calling it a matter of faith. The statement came after the Tibetan spiritual leader confirmed that there will be a 15th Dalai Lama, countering China&rsquo;s claim over authority in the reincarnation process.
&ldquo;We have seen the reports. India does not comment on religious beliefs or practices. The government upholds freedom of religion and will continue to do so,&rdquo; said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
The Dalai Lama, turning 90 on July 6, said his reincarnation will be decided by the Gaden Phodrang Trust, not China. His statement reassured followers globally about the continuation of the 600-year-old institution.
China, however, insisted that the reincarnation must be approved by Beijing and comply with Chinese laws. In response, the Central Tibetan Administration&rsquo;s spokesperson Tenzin Lakshey said China has no role in religious decisions and is &ldquo;an offender of the faith.&rdquo;
The Dalai Lama reaffirmed that the decision about the future of his institution was long considered and backed by Tibetan communities across the world, including Tibetans living in Chinese-ruled Tibet.
Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

India Takes No Stand on Dalai Lama Reincarnation Debate

MEA says India respects freedom of religion, won’t comment on faith-related matters.

India Takes No Stand on Dalai Lama Reincarnation Debate

MEA says India respects freedom of religion, won’t comment on faith-related matters.

July 5, 2025 | 01:48 IST