By Tenzin Choephel
Phayul Correspondent
Kathmandu : Many Tibetans in Nepal expressed serious concerns over the proposed cut in budget by the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG) on 5th February for Tibetan media under the US Government namely the VOA (Voice of America) and RFA (Radio Free Asia) Tibetan language radio and television service.
Since the inception of these broadcast services, they have gained much popularity among Tibetan audience worldwide and have succeeded in disseminating quality and true news to Tibetans inside and outside of Tibet. Particularly for Tibetans inside Tibet it is an source of inspiration for freedom and independence that are void for them in Tibet under the Chinese rule since 1959 when China occupied Tibet.
Phayul asked some important Tibetan officials here in Kathmandu about their views on the proposed budget cut in Tibetan media and all expressed serious concerns over it.
Following are some of their opinions and concerns. Jigme La, secretary of the Tibet Office in Kathmandu feels, “I think it is wrong and a sad situation because Tibetans live under repression. It is known to the world that there is no freedom of speech or access to free and fair information in our country. The two radio channels are very effective in Tibet and I think it is extremely important that all the concerned authorities should try to maintain these two radio channels because they are disseminating factual news and not using it for any propaganda. So I think the US Government should continue their support.”
Sonam Tsering of Snow Lion Foundation from Jwalakhel says, “I think it is great loss for the world and not just Tibetans because language is not just language but it has a rich historical background and it is related to a religion and culture that has major impact on world peace. These radio stations promote Tibetan culture outside Tibet when it is repressed inside Tibet. Since the US Government has been protecting and supporting the cause of Tibetans, I think they should continue their support.”
Norbu La, head of City and Swoyambu area of Kathmandu told phayul that, “I work for people and I think current situation of Tibetan media is growing very well according to modern techniques. So when it is working well why should they cut down the budget. There should be some reason for that and we have plans to inform the US Embassy here about our concern for the proposed cut in budget for Tibetan media.”
Some people are of opinion that the budget cuts proposed by the BBG will not be realized and it is not yet known how this would impact the work of Tibetan media personnel working for RFA and VOA and the growth of Tibetan media outside Tibet.
