DHARAMSHALA, March 28: The 9th session of the 15th Tibetan Parliament in exile concluded today with an appeal to all the Tibetans to work towards the cause of Tibet in their own capacities, and contribute towards functioning of the Tibetan administration.
The session mainly discussed the 2015-2016 Budget for the Central Tibetan administration, and passed a budget of Rupees 2018 Million against estimated income cited by the expected income of 1900 Million Rupees. The Kashag has expressed confidence to raise the deficit of 117 Million Rupees.
Besides, the session also saw the allotment of a new parliament seat for Australasia region. However, supporters of 2 seats under sects for Jhonang were not so lucky as it had to be dropped due to lack of required votes for the amendment.
In his closing address, Speaker Penpa Tsering expressed hope in the Tibetan cabinet headed by Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay to financially secure the Tibetan administration, while also urging the Tibetan people to contribute to the administration’s exchequer by paying their voluntary green-book contribution.
Speaker Penpa Tsering also urged the Tibetan people maintain harmony among various organizations, especially during political campaigns. He also said that the Tibetan people, at a time when the Tibet issue is enjoying substantial media coverage and international attention, should also try to promote things that benefit the cause and avoid those that harm it.
The parliament will meet next in September to discuss the annual reports submitted by the seven departments of the Central Tibetan Administration which renounced the name “Tibetan Government in Exile” after a national level gathering called in 2011, in an attempt to improve climate for negotiations with China.
Meanwhile, around 30 people gathered outside the Tibetan parliament to express their protest against the voting out of 2 seats for Jhonang sect in the parliament.
