The International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) spotlights the enforced disappearance and secret sentencing of Venerable Dhargye, a 63-year-old Tibetan monk, as a stark illustration of China’s escalating campaign of religious repression and judicial secrecy in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) and neighboring Tibetan prefectures. After more than four years of incommunicado detention, Dhargye has, according to credible reports made to ICT, been sentenced to seven years in prison. His case highlights Chinese authorities’ systematic criminalization of peaceful Buddhist religious practices and their routine violation of fundamental due process rights.

Arrest and enforced disappearance

Dhargye’s ordeal began on August 5, 2021, when he was arrested by Chinese police in Lhasa. He was detained alongside a relative named Tsering and a nun named Choekyi. While Tsering and Choekyi were released after several months, Dhargye remained in custody and was subsequently subjected to an enforced disappearance until traces of information began emerging in autumn 2025.

For over four years, Dhargye’s family was kept in the dark about his whereabouts. As soon as he was arrested in 2021, family members began regularly contacting Chinese authorities in Lhasa but they were given false assurances that Dhargye was well and would be released shortly. These false claims gave his family false hope for a speedy return and led them to avoid raising his detention with the international community.

Charges and sentencing

Information about Dhargye’s sentencing emerged in late January 2026. ICT believes he was charged with making traditional Tibetan Buddhist monetary offerings (Kyab-ten སྐྱབས་རྟེན་ and Ngo-ten བསྔོ་རྟེན་) to the Dalai Lama. Authorities also reportedly accused him of assisting Tibetan monks attempting to escape from Tibet.

The legal proceedings were conducted in complete secrecy. Dhargye’s family did not receive official notification of his charges, the date of his trial, the court that would deliver the verdict or the location of his detention. He has been denied all visits, and his current health status remains unknown, causing deep concern among his relatives given his advanced age.

In August 2022, nearly a year after Venerable Dhargye’s arrest, Chinese authorities detained his brother Tsedu along with four other Tibetans in a separate case. The five men were arrested for conducting traditional religious activities including smoke offerings to mountain deities and prayer ceremonies. While one of the five Tibetans died due to severe beatings, the other four were sentenced to two years imprisonment.

Contravention of legal standards

ICT’s analysis clearly shows that Chinese authorities handling of Dhargye’s case clearly violated China’s Criminal Procedure Law (CPL) and international human rights law. Article 85 requires authorities to notify a family of the reasons for arrest and the place of custody within 24 hours. Principle 16 of the UN Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment (adopted by UN General Assembly resolution 43/173 of 9 December 1988), Rule 58 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, and Articles 17 and 18 of the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance require states to provide families with basic information about the fate and whereabouts of a disappeared person without delay. Only narrow and time-limited exceptions are permitted. By holding Dhargye incommunicado for five years, which far exceeds any permissible limits, China is in violation of its own legal frameworks and international law.

Furthermore, the criminalization of traditional Buddhist monetary offerings strikes at the core of Tibetan Buddhist belief. In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, offerings are an essential expression of devotion to religious teachers. Kyabten is an offering made for “taking refuge” dedicated to a religious teacher and Ngoten is a dedicatory offering typically made in the name of deceased persons or those who are seriously ill to generate positive karma for them. Under China’s “stability maintenance” policy, however, such expressions of devotion to exiled spiritual leaders are equated with “inciting separatism” or “subverting state power”.

The non-transparent sentencing of Venerable Dhargye exemplifies Chinese authorities’ egregious violations of religious freedom in Tibet. Through pervasive surveillance and the strategic use of enforced disappearances, the Chinese Communist Party continues to suppress religious freedom and sever the spiritual connections between Tibetans and their exiled leaders. The lack of transparency in the judicial system ensures that many such cases of repression against Tibetans never surface.

Born in 1962 in Serta in Golog, Wulshul (Amdo region), Dhargye is the son of Choephel and Choelha. He is a monk of the Serta Sera Monastery, an institution founded in 1736 that is noted for preserving both old and new Buddhist traditions. Prior to his arrest, he resided in Lhasa, where he was frequently sought by local Tibetan devotees to perform consecration rituals for sacred objects, scriptures and stupas.

Dharamshala: On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, Sikyong Penpa Tsering conveyed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dr. Christian Schwarz-Schilling, a longstanding friend and supporter of the Tibetan cause. He passed away on 6 April 2026 at the age of 95.

Dr. Christian Schwarz-Schilling held key roles in German and international politics, including serving as a member of the German Bundestag for more than two decades and as the Federal Minister for Post and Telecommunications. He also served as an international mediator and was appointed as the High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In a condolence letter addressed to the bereaved daughters of late Dr. Christian Schwarz-Schilling, Sikyong acknowledged, “In addition to these remarkable accomplishments, he was a true and steadfast friend of Tibet, who advocated earnestly for Sino-Tibet dialogue. Over the many years during which I had the honour of engaging with him at numerous roundtable conferences on the Tibetan cause, I came to know him as a man who was not merely a distinguished German statesman but a man of unwavering commitment to peaceful resolution of conflict.”

The letter continued, “As the founder of the Schwarz-Schilling Foundation and a dedicated champion of Tibet, he engaged with Kashag and the Tibetan leadership for many years. In recognition of his enduring contribution, he was presented the ICT Light of Truth Award in 2013, by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, an honor that reflects his legacy. I am especially grateful that our paths crossed one final time last year, where I had the opportunity to thank him for all that he has done for us.”

“We mourn the loss of a cherished friend, a loyal advocate, and a wonderful human being. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched. Please know that our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May he attain a swift rebirth,” the letter concluded.

Dalhousie: The Dalhousie Tibetan Health Clinic, in collaboration with the Tibetan Cancer Society and the Dalhousie Ghoton Committee, successfully organised a Mega Free Medical Health Camp on the occasion of World Health Day, 7 April 2026.

The camp provided a wide range of medical services to the Tibetan community, including consultations with a gynaecologist, cardiologist, radiologist, ophthalmologist, and general physician. A total of 87 patients visited the camp and received medical care and expert advice.

The event concluded successfully with a short thank-you program, during which Tibetan local dignitaries honoured the Indian doctors and nurses by presenting them with traditional scarves and mementos in appreciation of their dedicated service.

-Report filed by TSO Dalhousie

Dharamshala: On World Health Day, 7 April 2026, Tibetan settlements in India marked the occasion with a variety of events, including a hand hygiene exhibit, marathon, basketball tournament, racquet and football competitions, yoga sessions, free health screenings, environmental cleanup drives, and a creative writing competition to promote health awareness.

These campaigns were organised by Tibetan settlement offices, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the doctors and nurses of the respective settlements. People of all ages came together to participate in the events, aiming to improve their health and hygiene.

The initiative was funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (USDOS, SCA).

World Health Day 2026 highlighted the interconnectedness of health, emphasising that the well-being of the planet is inextricably linked to the health of all living beings. It also underscored how scientific advances continue to save millions of lives worldwide.

-Report Filed Department of Health, CTA

Brussels, 07 April: The historic Sint Gerlachus Church in Limburg, the Netherlands, is currently hosting a rare photographic exhibition dedicated to His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama highlighting his teachings, with a specific focus on His Holiness’ historic connection with the orange country dating as far back as 1973.

The exhibition opened with prayers from Pastor Constantijn Dieteren and Geshe Tseten Phuntsok, followed by remarks by the Pastor who made reference to His Holiness’ recent message on peace endorsing His Holiness Pope Leo’s urgent appeal for an immediate ceasefire and the renunciation of violence.

Rigzin Genkhang, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who attended the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest, underscored the profoundly symbolic gesture of a Catholic church hosting an exhibition dedicated to a Buddhist luminary. She championed this collaboration as a testament to interreligious harmony and mutual reverence that His Holiness continues to tirelessly advocate. She also highlighted His Holiness’ profound alignment between His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message of global peace and the recent appeals made by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. Representative Genkhang movingly emphasised that “the boundaries between our religious traditions are secondary to the shared humanity that unites us. At their core, both traditions advocate for the transformative power of infinite love and compassion.”

Representative Genkhang acknowledged the efforts of Tsultem Rinchen Dorjee and the co-organisers (Sint Gerlachus church, Valkenburg aan de Geul, the World Citizenship Platform) commending their efforts to envision this timely tribute.

Following these remarks, the guests lit a candle together. The atmosphere was further enriched by vibrant cultural performances featuring Tibetan artist Namgyal Lhamo and youths. These presentations, including traditional music and dance, served as a showcase of Tibetan heritage.

The inauguration drew cultural figures, supporters of Tibet and members of the Tibetan Community, including President Norbu Tsering. This marked the beginning of the exhibition, which will run until 05 July 2026 in honour of His Holiness’ 90^th birth anniversary observed as the “Year of Compassion”. The event is expected to attract visitors from across the region inspiring individuals through the timeless teachings of His Holiness, while reinforcing a shared global aspiration for peace.

The event was covered by local media.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels

Dharamshala: As part of the Year of Compassion initiative by the Central Tibetan Administration, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Charitable Trust (HHDLCT) extended its support to Government Primary School, Jogiwara. Under this initiative, HHDLCT distributed various educational and essential items, including stationery, notebooks, school bags, water bottles, umbrellas, and lunch boxes. In addition, sports materials such as cricket kits, badminton sets, jumping ropes, and hula hoops were also provided to encourage physical activity and overall development.

This support will benefit 18 students of the school, including local children as well as children of daily wage labourers from other states. Although many students were on vacation at the time of distribution, the materials have been safely handed over and will be distributed to all beneficiaries once they return to school.

This initiative reflects HHDLCT’s continued efforts under the Year of Compassion to support the education of students in the community.

-Report Filed by Department of Finance

Dharamshala: On 7 April 2026, in observance of the World Health Day, the Tibetan Settlement Office of Dharamshala, under the guidance of the Health Department, CTA, organised a public marathon titled “Run for Dharamshala.” The event aimed to promote awareness about public and individual health.

The marathon commenced at 8 AM and saw the enthusiastic participation of 51 Tibetans from a wide range of age groups. The youngest participant was 10-year-old Tenzin Pema from TCV Upper Dharamshala, while the oldest participant was Phurbu Tsering, aged 58.

The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where the Joint Secretary of the Health Department, Pema Youdon, attended as the Chief Guest. She felicitated the winners with cash prizes and certificates.

-Report filed by Department of Heath, CTA

Dharamshala: The 9th Non-sectarian Debate, jointly organised by the Department of Religion and Culture (CTA) and Pal Shenten Menri Ling, commenced in Dolanji on 5 April 2026.

Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture, Dhondul Dorjee, attended the inaugural ceremony as the special guest, alongside the chief guest, the 34th Kyabje Gyalwa Menri Trizin, Lungtok Dawa Dhargyal Rinpoche.

The event began with the ceremonial lighting of a butter lamp by the two distinguished guests, followed by offering of auspicious prayers by the congregation.

Following a welcome address and introductory remarks about the host monastery by the Joint Secretary of Pal Shenten Menri Ling, the 34th Kyabje Gyalwa Menri Trizin Rinpoche formally launched a publication by the Department of Religion and Culture. The publication contains compilations of speeches delivered by His Holiness the Dalai Lama over the course of 15 successive Tibetan Religious Conferences.

The opening ceremony continued with addresses by the chief guest and the special guest.

The 9th Non-sectarian Debate, being held from 5 to 9 April 2026, features the presentation of scholarly papers by 22 Khenpos, Lopons, and Geshes, followed by discussions and debates. A total of 85 monks and nuns from 45 monasteries and nunneries are participating in the event.

Since the 11th Tibetan Religious Conference, under the visionary guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Department of Religion and Culture has organised this series of Non-sectarian Debates at various monasteries. The initiative aims to promote the exchange of knowledge among different traditions and schools of Yungdrung Bön and Tibetan Buddhism, thereby fostering mutual respect and harmony.

The ongoing 9th Non-sectarian Debate is being broadcast live on the official Facebook pages of Tibet TV and Menri Media.

On 6 April, Secretary Dhondul Dorjee called on Shri Chander Prakash Verma, Secretary for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Himachal Pradesh, to discuss matters concerning the Department of Religion and Culture (CTA). As a token of appreciation, he presented Shri Chander Prakash Verma with a thangka of the Buddha. Chief Representative Officer of Shimla, Lhakpa Tsering, accompanied Secretary Dhondul Dorjee during this visit.

– Report filed by Department of Religion and Culture, CTA

Dharamshala: The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) officially commenced its annual general meeting & comprehensive staff training program at Thumi Hall, Administrative Training and Welfare Society (ATWS). The intensive program, scheduled from 6 April  to 20 April, 2026, is designed to equip the auditing staff with advanced skills in modern financial and technological practices.

The opening ceremony began at 9:00 AM. Auditor General Tashi Topgyal formally inaugurated the event by lighting a traditional butter lamp and offering a khatak to the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Following the auspicious opening, Acting Secretary Thinley Chomphel addressed the attendees to provide a comprehensive overview of the upcoming training. He noted that the curriculum covers a wide array of vital subjects, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Tally training, Income Tax & GST, FCRA training, and Construction Audit. He placed special emphasis on the newly introduced AI topics, highlighting the office’s proactive step toward technological integration.

Then Auditor General Tashi Topgyal commended the OAG staff for their continued hard work and high standards. He reminded the attendees that bringing the team together for such extensive training requires a significant investment of both time and financial resources, urging everyone to utilise the sessions wisely. A central focal point of the Auditor General’s speech was the future of auditing technology. Aligning with the training’s curriculum, he strongly encouraged the auditors to actively implement AI tools into their regular workflows to increase efficiency. Furthermore, he opened the floor for ongoing feedback, requesting the staff to provide innovative suggestions on how to further improve and streamline the overall auditing process.

The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note with the serving of traditional tea and Droma dresil (Tibetan sweet rice), symbolising an auspicious and successful start to the program.

-Report filed by Office of Auditor General, CTA