China Expresses Strong Anger Over 6th Dalai Lama Conference in India's Tawang

International Conference on 6th Dalai Lama Concludes in Tawang

An international conference focusing on the cultural and historical significance of the 6th Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso, concluded in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India, on December 6, 2025. The four-day event, which commenced on December 3, brought together scholars, monks, and researchers from around the world to delve into the legacy of the 6th Dalai Lama, who was born in Tawang in 1683.

The conference was jointly organized by a coalition of academic and governmental bodies, including the Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the Thubten Shedrubling Foundation, and the Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation (CCRD). Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the event, emphasizing Tawang's profound historical and spiritual connection to the Dalai Lamas. He noted that not only was the 6th Dalai Lama born in Tawang, but the 14th Dalai Lama also entered India through Tawang when he fled Chinese-occupied Tibet in 1959.

China's Vehement Opposition

Following the conference, China reacted with strong anger, viewing the event as a direct challenge to its territorial claims over the region. Beijing posted its official reaction on its 'China Tibet Online' site under the aggressive title, 'Erosion of Sovereignty Under the Guise of Culture: Debunking India's Absurd Face in Zangnan, Southern Part of Xizang.' China considers Arunachal Pradesh, including Tawang, as 'Zangnan' or 'South Tibet' and views any activity involving the Dalai Lama in this area as an infringement on its sovereignty.

China's long-standing claim over Arunachal Pradesh is rooted in its assertion that the region is historically part of Tibet, which it annexed in 1950. This perspective leads China to object to any official or semi-official engagement with the Dalai Lama, whom it labels a 'dangerous separatist,' particularly in areas it considers disputed.

India's Stance on Tawang and the Dalai Lama

India, on the other hand, firmly maintains that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of its territory. India's claim is based on the McMahon Line, established during the 1914 Simla Treaty. Indian officials have consistently dismissed China's objections to the Dalai Lama's visits to the region, characterizing them as purely religious and spiritual in nature.

The conference in Tawang aimed to highlight the unique contribution of the 6th Dalai Lama to Tibetan literature and spirituality, and to reaffirm Tawang's significance as a center of trans-Himalayan Buddhist heritage. The event also served to foster academic and cultural engagement, with participants from institutions such as Florida State University, University of Virginia, University of Michigan, and Harvard University.

Historical Context of the Dispute

The dispute over Tawang and Arunachal Pradesh is a significant point of contention in India-China relations. China's claims have expanded over the years, initially focusing on Tawang and later encompassing the entire state of Arunachal Pradesh. The presence of the Tawang Monastery, the second-most important Tibetan Buddhist monastery, and the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama are key elements China cites in its territorial assertions. India, however, has consistently rejected these claims, emphasizing its administrative control and the democratic will of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.