By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, June 17: The Tibetan settlement office (tib:dhedhoen lekhung) and the people of Dharamshala today formally welcomed the newly elected Tibetan Settlement Officer of Dharamshala (Dedhoen) Dawa Rinchen at a reception at Hotel Tibet here.
Ajay Singh Mankotia, President of Indo-Tibet Friendship Association (ITFA), attended as the chief guest at the function. The Department of Home was represented by Palden Dhondup, Additional Secretary of Department of Home. Tibetan Parliamentarians, members of ITFA, members of various NGOs and monasteries also were present to wish the new TSO.
Speaking at his maiden public event as the new Dedhoen, Rinchen said that he pledges to work in his full capacity for the welfare of the people and expressed hope for full cooperation from all the sections of the Dharamshala Tibetan society to sort out any differences and issues. He also added that he would not make any tall promises as well.
“The main issue of Dharamshala is its dirty environment due to the increasing footfall of tourists. So our priority is to enhance the efforts of the existing programs laid out by the local administration and with the assistance of every Indian and Tibetan organizations and associations,” he said.
The new TSO also said that he would personally approach those alcoholic Tibetans and those under the influence of drugs around the town to eliminate the menace.
Palden Dhundup from DOH said, “The main aim behind the formation of Dedhoen is to be the bridge in between the central administration and the people and to look after the welfare of people. Since he has been elected by the people, I can be certain that he will do his duties very well.”
Sri Ajay Singh Mankotia said, “Lately, the relationship between the local Tibetan and Indian residents has soured due to the unfortunate event last year, involving a death of a young Tibetan. So, let’s take this auspicious day as a new day in working towards ironing out our differences in an amicable way.”
He urged everyone to work in unison to keep Dharamshala, abode of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, clean environmentally and socially. He also appealed all the organizations to cooperate with the new TSO.
The New TSO is the fourth directly elected settlement officer of Dharamshala and will hold the office for three years.
