Threats to the Dalai Lama's life being taken seriously: CTA

In a statement after the Kashag (Tibetan cabinet) met in the wake of the spiritual leader's remarks on threat to his life from Chinese agents, spokesman of the Central Tibetan Administration said "the security of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a matter of great concern".

Accusing the Chinese government of launching an "unprecedented offencive campaign" against the Dalai Lama in Tibet and during his visits outside India, the Tibetan authority said although the Dalai Lama "takes security threat to his person lightly, there are a variety of threats to his well-being that the security agencies are obliged to take it seriously.

 

"According to reports received from Tibet in June 2010, Chinese intelligence agencies are making concrete plans to harm His Holiness by employing well-trained agents, particularly females.

"It is also learnt that they are exploring the possibility of harming him by using ultra-modern and highly sophisticated drugs and poisonous chemicals.

"In another report received in October 2011, it is also learnt that Chinese intelligence agencies have stepped up their clandestine efforts to collect intelligence on the status of His Holiness' health, as well as collecting physical samples of his blood, urine and hair.

"They are reportedly co-opting Tibetans inside Tibet to visit India with the intention of seeking an audience with him to this end," said Tashi, Secretary for Information, Spokesman of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Minister for Security Ngodup Dongchung said that steps are being taken to counter these threats including using chemical detectors in the Dalai Lama's security.

The administration said it "is grateful to Government of India for the efficient security arrangements" provided to the Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule.