Fake Panchen Lama controlled by Xi
The upcoming visit of Gyaltsen Norbu, the Chinese-appointed 11th Panchen Lama, to Nepal has triggered significant debate over China’s strategic use of Tibetan Buddhism to exert influence in the region. Norbu, whose legitimacy as a religious leader is widely contested, is attending the South China Sea Buddhism Roundtable Conference in Lumbini from December 12 to December 15. This visit underlines China’s increasing efforts to weaponize Buddhism as a soft power tool while eroding the religious and cultural autonomy of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Real Panchen Lama: A Captive Since Childhood
The Panchen Lama, traditionally the second-highest spiritual authority in Tibetan Buddhism, holds great religious significance. In 1995, the Dalai Lama identified a six-year-old boy, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, as the 11th Panchen Lama. However, shortly after this announcement, the Chinese government abducted Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and his family. Despite global calls for his release, including statements from the United Nations, the Chinese government has refused to disclose their whereabouts or provide proof of their well-being. Gedhun Choekyi Nyima remains the world’s youngest political prisoner, symbolizing China’s authoritarian suppression of Tibetan identity.
In his place, China appointed Gyaltsen Norbu, a figure largely seen as a puppet of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). By grooming and promoting Norbu, Beijing seeks to undermine the Dalai Lama’s authority and control the future leadership of Tibetan Buddhism.
China’s Geopolitical Buddhism: Weaponizing Faith
China’s decision to send Norbu to Nepal is part of its broader strategy to use Buddhism as a diplomatic and cultural weapon. Hosting the “South China Sea Buddhism Roundtable Conference” in Lumbini—a site revered as the birthplace of Buddha—raises questions about Nepal’s neutrality in the China-India rivalry. Critics, including Nepali author Amish Mulmi, have pointed out the absurdity of hosting a conference on the South China Sea in a landlocked Himalayan nation. This event symbolizes Beijing’s attempt to extend its cultural and religious influence far beyond its borders.
China’s engagement in Nepal through such initiatives also aligns with its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as the two countries have signed agreements to enhance economic cooperation. By intertwining religious diplomacy with its economic ambitions, Beijing seeks to consolidate its influence in Nepal, a nation traditionally balanced between China and India.
The Dalai Lama: A Target of Beijing’s Policies
China has consistently targeted the Dalai Lama, labeling him a “separatist” and accusing him of undermining Chinese sovereignty. Despite these accusations, the Dalai Lama has maintained his position of seeking “meaningful autonomy” for Tibet rather than outright independence. However, Beijing’s fears extend beyond the Dalai Lama’s activism; they are rooted in his role as the spiritual leader of millions of Tibetans.
Beijing has enshrined in its laws the right to appoint the next Dalai Lama, an attempt to institutionalize its control over Tibetan Buddhism. However, Tibetan leaders in exile, including Penpa Tsering, President of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, have categorically rejected China’s interference, asserting that an atheist government cannot dictate religious matters.
Nepal’s Role in China’s Strategy
Nepal’s decision to host Norbu while keeping the Dalai Lama at arm’s length highlights its shifting geopolitical priorities. The Oli government has deepened ties with Beijing, from endorsing the BRI to refraining from actions that might upset China. This alignment comes at a time when Nepal’s historical military and cultural connections with India are waning, exemplified by the country’s ban on Nepali citizens joining the Indian Army under its Agnipath scheme.
By welcoming Norbu, Nepal not only risks alienating Tibetan refugees within its borders but also positions itself as a facilitator of China’s geopolitical objectives. For India, which hosts the largest population of Tibetan refugees and regards the Dalai Lama as a revered spiritual leader, this development will be closely monitored.
Conclusion
The visit of China’s Panchen Lama to Nepal is more than a religious event-it is a calculated geopolitical move. While the real Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, remains a captive symbol of China’s repression, Beijing is leveraging his replacement to consolidate control over Tibetan Buddhism. Nepal’s participation in these efforts underscores the shifting power dynamics in South Asia, with Buddhism increasingly becoming a battleground for influence.
As the Dalai Lama ages, the stakes are higher than ever for the Tibetan community. The prospect of two rival successors-one chosen by Tibetans and the other by Beijing-threatens to deepen divisions and intensify the struggle for Tibet’s cultural and spiritual survival.