By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, October 12: Clocking over 3,000 kms from Bylakuppe to Dharamshala, a group of twelve Tibetans on six motorbikes, arrived here today amidst a warm reception accorded to them by local Tibetan residents and various NGOs.
Organized by the Tibetan People’s Movement for Middle Way, the participants of the bike rally were welcomed by the Tibetan parliament’s Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel at the Martyrs’ memorial near Tsuglakhang.
“Just believing in a stand is not enough. So this bike rally has sent a strong message to China that we are not losing hope and the awareness spread through the campaign is highly appreciative,” said the Speaker.
The campaign has been initiated with three main objectives, urging China to start dialogue with envoys of the Dalai Lama; to put an end to destruction of Tibetan culture, religion and environment; and immediate release of Panchen Lama and all political prisoners.
Rinzin Dorjee, head of the campaign, said that they had organized awareness events in over eight cities and met various leaders, officials and media representatives.
“The support shown to us through out the rally was very pleasing and encouraging. I am glad that we have all reached Dharamshala, the center of Tibetan struggle, without misfortune of any kind,” Rinzin said.
Covering over 500 kms per day the participants, all between 25 and 55, started the journey on October 2 from Bylakuppe coinciding with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, whose non-violent approach they say relates to the Middle Way Approach.
Upon their arrival in Delhi on October 9, they had an event at Jantar Mantar followed by handing over of petition to the Prime Minister’s Office and the UN Office in New Delhi.
However, on approaching the Chinese Consulate, the officials refused to accept the documents on MWA.
“The participants were very dejected with it. However, we feel that the whole trip has been a success and a fruitful one,” said Tenzin Tsundue one of the participants.
The participants also led a candle light vigil in the evening.
