Dharamshala: On 25 December 2025, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang briefed a group of students from Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), led by Prof. Mahesh Deokar and Prof. Lata Deokar, on the current critical situation inside Tibet, the evolution of Tibetan democracy, and the role and initiatives of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile during their visit to the Parliament.
The visiting delegation comprised 64 students and faculty members from the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, SPPU. They are currently in Dharamshala on a field trip coordinated by Parliamentarian Dorjee Tseten and organized in collaboration with the College for Higher Tibetan Studies (CHTS), Sarah.
Prof. Mahesh Deokar introduced the faculty members and students, who come from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and countries. He expressed his gratitude to Parliamentarian Dorjee Tseten and CHTS for their support in coordinating the university’s field trip.
In her address, Deputy Speaker Teykhang shed light on Tibet’s historical background, noting its written history of over 2,000 years and its longstanding civilizational ties with India. She also spoke on Tibet’s occupation by China, debunking China’s claim that Tibet has been part of China since antiquity.
Crediting the success of Tibetan democracy in exile and the preservation of Tibet’s distinct language, culture, and religion to the foresighted vision and blessings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, she provided an overview of the evolution, composition, and functioning of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.
Addressing the critical situation inside Tibet under China’s repressive policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity, the Deputy Speaker highlighted the geopolitical significance of the Tibetan Plateau, emphasizing its strategic location and its role as the source of major rivers flowing into several South Asian countries.
In conclusion, she urged the visitors to speak up for Tibet whenever possible and to raise their voices against the atrocities committed by the Chinese Communist Party.
