Itanagar, April 24: The Dalai Lama is expected to visit Arunachal Pradesh in October-November this year, according to Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
In a tweet, Khandu expressed his gratitude to have met with the spiritual leader and his family members and sought the Dalai Lama’s blessings for the state and its people. However, the venue of the meeting was not disclosed.
Blessed to have audience with the apostle of peace; embodiment of compassion; ocean of wisdom, His Holiness the 14th @DalaiLama along with my family members today morning. Happy that His Holiness has reiterated his assurance to visit Arunachal by October/November this year.… pic.twitter.com/FwcK2w8iwo
— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) April 22, 2023
In response to a recent video shared on social media that targeted the Dalai Lama, local residents organised a demonstration in Tawang. They spoke out against the “malicious propaganda” that was used to defame the spiritual leader.
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China has previously opposed the Dalai Lama’s visits to India, including his 12-day visit to Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in April 2017.
The Chinese government also expressed anger over Indian Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh in April 2022, during which he launched the Vibrant Villages Programme in Kibithoo village. The region shares borders with China and Myanmar.
In response, Indian ministers and political leaders criticised China for its opposition to Shah’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the country’s support for India’s territorial integrity. The Dalai Lama’s upcoming visit to the region is expected to be similarly contentious.
