Dharamsala, February 12 – The lathi-charge by the police on Tibetan Freedom March activists has caught the attention of the Vajpayee government and the Union Home Ministry has asked for a detailed report of the incident.
The 80-strong contingent of freedom peace marchers, including monks, and TYC activists, was stopped by the police and lathi-charged. Transport Minister G. S. Bali defused the situation. However, in a joint press briefing, the Prime Minister of the Tibetan Government in Exile, Prof Samdhong Rinpoche, and Mr Bali claimed that no lathi-charge had taken place.
Intelligence Bureau officials stationed here have sent a report which is contrary to the claims made by Prof Rinpoche and Mr Bali Tibet support groups working in Mcleodganj have also sent similar reports to various foreign governments and also to MPs.
The issue has embarrassed the Indian Government as officials on duty claimed that the march was stopped on directions received from the Centre. Later, the protesters were allowed to proceed .
