China's Controversial Move: Tibetans Forced to Attend 'Fake Panchen Lama' Ceremony Amid Religious Suppression

Oct 15, 2025 08:27 pm CST

Chinese authorities have reportedly compelled thousands of Tibetans to attend a four-day Kalachakra empowerment ceremony led by state-appointed Panchen Lama Gyaltsen Norbu at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. This controversial event, held under heightened security and surveillance, represents China's ongoing efforts to legitimize their chosen religious figure while suppressing Tibetan Buddhism and undermining the Dalai Lama's influence. The legitimate 11th Panchen Lama, recognized by the Dalai Lama, has remained missing since his disappearance in 1995.