New Delhi, 31st January: Nobel laureate and South African anti-apartheid struggle hero Desmond Tutu today caught the Indian leadership unaware by strongly advocating independence for Tibet soon after receiving the coveted Gandhi Peace Prize.
“We thank you for giving refuge to one of greatest human beings Dalai Lama (Tibetan spiritual leader) and pray that your help bring about freedom of his Tibet,” the 76-years-old human rights activist from South Africa said after President Abdul Kalam presented the Rs 1-crore award to him at a function in the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and a galaxy of dignitaries were present.
Keeping in mind the sensitivity of ties between India and China, PMO sources were quick to point out that India recognised only one China and termed the remarks by Tutu as his personal views.
Tutu, who rose to fame as an opponent of apartheid, has also sought India’s help in bringing about the “freedom” of Burma and release of pro-democracy leader Aung Sans Suu Kyi.
The South African leader said, “I dedicate the award to the people of South Africa, to the freedom of Darfur and to Aung Sans Suu Kyi”.
The Prime Minister said Tutu and his comrade-in-arms Nelson Mandela fought for the end to apartheid and the right to live in peace with all races, all religions and all communities.
“Today, in conferring the Gandhi Peace Prize, we are only adding our own voice to the global recognition of Bishop Tutu’s Gandhism”, he said.
