New Delhi, July 7, 2025 — A significant cross-party initiative is gaining momentum in India as Members of Parliament from various political affiliations have urged the Central government to award the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The move coincides with the Tibetan spiritual leader’s 90th birthday, celebrated in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh, where thousands of devotees and dignitaries gathered to honor him.

All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet Leads the Charge

The appeal comes from the All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet, which includes members from key political groups like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Janata Dal (United). The forum convened earlier this month, where it unanimously passed a resolution calling for the Bharat Ratna to be conferred upon the Dalai Lama and proposed that he be invited to address a joint session of Parliament—a potentially historic gesture.

The forum’s initiative is viewed as a powerful act of solidarity with the Tibetan cause and could draw a strong reaction from China, given the Dalai Lama’s continued advocacy for Tibetan rights since fleeing to India in 1959.

Signature Campaign: Over 80 MPs On Board

The 10-member core committee of the forum launched a signature campaign in support of this cause. According to Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar, the campaign has already garnered signatures from over 80 MPs, with the goal of collecting at least 100 signatures before submitting a formal memorandum to the Prime Minister and President of India.

Sujeet Kumar added:

"We have initiated a signature campaign to award Bharat Ratna to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Many MPs from both ruling and opposition parties have extended support. We are also writing to the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Speakers to consider a joint session for His Holiness to address."

The campaign includes video messages from parliamentarians endorsing the idea and pledging support.

A Speech in Parliament? A Diplomatic Flashpoint

One of the boldest elements of the proposal is the suggestion that the Dalai Lama address a joint session of Parliament. Such a move would be unprecedented and is likely to escalate diplomatic tensions with China, which considers the Dalai Lama a separatist figure.

However, proponents argue that this move is not only about international diplomacy but India’s moral duty to recognize a global symbol of peace, compassion, and non-violence.

Grand 90th Birthday Celebration in McLeodganj

The push for the Bharat Ratna comes shortly after the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday celebrations held at Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, his place of exile since he fled Tibet during the Chinese crackdown in the 1960s.

The celebration was marked by large gatherings of devotees, religious ceremonies, and speeches from prominent political and cultural figures.

Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Sikkim Minister Sonam Lama, and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a long-time advocate for Tibetan independence, all attended the festivities.

Dalai Lama’s Stand on Succession Clarified

In the days leading up to the event, the Dalai Lama issued a statement affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue, ending speculation about its future. He clarified that only the Gaden Phodrang Trust, the official Tibetan administrative body in exile, will be responsible for recognizing his future reincarnation.

This announcement was seen as a strong assertion of Tibetan autonomy over spiritual matters, countering China’s attempts to control or influence the succession process.

Why Bharat Ratna for the Dalai Lama?

The Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India for over six decades, championing peace and non-violence globally. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and is widely acknowledged as a symbol of compassion, ethical leadership, and interfaith harmony.

Many in India believe that awarding him the Bharat Ratna would not only honor his lifetime contributions to humanity, but also affirm India’s role as a sanctuary for oppressed communities and its commitment to spiritual values.

Geopolitical Repercussions Anticipated

While the move garners public and political support domestically, it is expected to invite sharp criticism from China, which has long accused the Dalai Lama of fomenting separatism in Tibet.

China has historically warned countries against giving any official recognition to the Dalai Lama, with past diplomatic standoffs including the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and foreign dignitaries meeting with him.

India's decision to entertain such proposals will be closely watched by international observers and strategic analysts, especially amidst growing concerns about China’s assertiveness in the region.

Political Unity on a Sensitive Issue

What’s striking about this initiative is the bipartisan nature of support. In a politically polarized climate, MPs from both the government and opposition benches have come together, recognizing the Dalai Lama’s legacy as a humanitarian and spiritual beacon.

This unity sends a message—not just to the Tibetan people but also to the international community—that India acknowledges and celebrates those who stand for peace, dignity, and human rights.

Conclusion: A Nobel Peace Laureate for India’s Highest Civilian Honour

The Dalai Lama’s contributions transcend religion, politics, and geography. As India contemplates honoring him with the Bharat Ratna, it simultaneously signals a strong stance on ethical governance, non-violence, and cultural preservation.

Whether or not the Central government accepts the recommendation remains to be seen. But the growing support from Parliament indicates a widespread recognition of the Dalai Lama’s global impact, and reflects India’s enduring bond with the Tibetan cause.

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