The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the Indian government does not take a position on matters related to religious practices, responding to recent remarks by the Dalai Lama regarding the selection of his successor. Speaking on Friday, July 4, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the issue is a religious one, and thus outside the purview of official government policy.
This comes two days after the 89-year-old Tibetan spiritual leader declared that the institution of the Dalai Lama would continue after his death and outlined the process for identifying his successor through a trust established by him. His announcement triggered a sharp response from Beijing, which insisted that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama “must be approved” by the Chinese government.
“We have seen reports relating to the statement made by His Holiness the Dalai Lama about the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution,” the MEA statement said.
“Government of India does not take any position or speak on matters concerning beliefs and practices of faith and religion. Government has always upheld freedom of religion for all in India and will continue to do so,” it added.
Jaiswal’s comments appeared to reflect New Delhi’s carefully calibrated stance on the issue, particularly as India continues its efforts to stabilise ties with China while also being mindful of Beijing’s sensitivities. According to people familiar with the matter, the Indian government’s response effectively leaves the decision regarding the Dalai Lama’s successor to the Tibetan Buddhist community.
A day earlier, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju – himself a practising Buddhist – had stated that the authority to choose the next Dalai Lama lies solely with the current Dalai Lama and the institution he represents. Rijiju’s remarks were widely interpreted as aligning with the Indian government’s position on the matter.
