Dharamshala, 26 October 2026: The 15th Regional Tibetan Women’s Association (RTWA) of Dharamshala inaugurated a 6.5-foot statue honouring Tibetan martyr Lobga Rangzen at Lhagyal-ri on the morning of 26 October 2026.

Parliamentarian Lopon Thubten Gyaltsen as the Chief Guest inaugurated the statue dedicated to Tibetan activist Lobga Rangzen who self-immolated in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York on 2 July 2026.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Parliamentarian Lopon Thubten Gyaltsen, representing the Standing Committee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, expressed his appreciation for the RTWA’s initiative. He commended the motivation and objectives behind dedicating the statue in honour of Tibetan martyr Lobga Rangzen.

The parliamentarian noted that the Sino-Tibetan conflict remains unresolved and paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Tibetan martyrs, including those who have given their lives for the cause of Tibet. He recalled that Martyr Thupten Ngodup was the first Tibetan to self-immolate for the cause of Tibet in 1998. He also referred to subsequent self-immolations by Tibetans inside and outside Tibet since 2008, with the total number almost to 170.

He further highlighted the responsibility entrusted to every Tibetan, regardless of background, to carry forward the legacy of those who have sacrificed their lives and work towards fulfilling their aspirations through the resolution of the Sino-Tibetan conflict.

Emphasizing the importance of introducing Tibet’s struggle to the international community, the parliamentarian underscored the need to raise awareness of the sacrifices made by Tibetan martyrs, particularly those who have self-immolated. He encouraged Tibetans to contribute to the cause in whatever capacity they could, whether individually or through organizations and governmental institutions.

Concluding his remarks, Parliamentarian Lopon Thubten Gyaltsen, on behalf of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, expressed gratitude and appreciation to the RTWA for its initiative. He also offered prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the swift resolution of the Sino-Tibetan conflict, and the reunion of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet.