Gangtok: A fervent appeal to bestow India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, upon the 14th Dalai Lama is gaining significant traction within the Indian Parliament. This renewed momentum follows the Tibetan spiritual leader’s 90th birthday celebrations held recently in Dharamshala on July 6. More than 80 Members of Parliament have already thrown their weight behind this significant proposal.
The charge is being led by the All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet (APIPFT), an eclectic group featuring MPs from across the political spectrum, including the BJP, BJD, Congress, and JD(U). Senior parliamentarians Bhartruhari Mahtab and Sujeet Kumar are spearheading the initiative, aiming to secure 100 signatures on a formal petition before submitting it to either the Prime Minister or the President of India.
The campaign has found particularly strong resonance in Sikkim, a state where Buddhist traditions are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric. While Sikkim’s Lok Sabha MP, Indra Hang Subba, was unable to attend the latest APIPFT meeting, he has reiterated his unwavering support for the cause. Speaking to India Today NE, Subba stated, “Though in recent past the issue was not discussed during All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet, I have attended several similar meetings in the past. I will always support the call for conferring the Bharat Ratna on His Holiness the Dalai Lama in future if any proposal comes. As a citizen of Sikkim and a Member of Parliament, I firmly stand in favour of this honour being bestowed upon him.” In Sikkim, the Dalai Lama is seen not just as a spiritual beacon but also as a profound symbol of peace, compassion, and resilience, with many believing the award would acknowledge the deep-seated cultural ties between Sikkim and the Tibetan people.
While debates persist regarding the Dalai Lama’s eligibility due to his non-Indian citizenship, proponents strongly assert that his immense contributions to global peace, spirituality, and human rights transcend national borders. The campaign has also witnessed considerable traction on social media, further boosted by a recent U.S. bill recognizing Tibet as an occupied territory, which has undeniably galvanised sentiment in India. With the APIPFT inching closer to its target of 100 signatories, anticipation is now mounting over the Indian government’s forthcoming response to this growing demand.
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