On March 10, 2025, Tibetan protesters gathered in New Delhi and Dharamshala to mark the 66th anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan Uprising against Chinese rule. The protests, which saw clashes with police outside the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi, underscored the persistent tension surrounding the Tibetan independence movement.
A Historic Struggle Revisited
The Tibetan Uprising of 1959 remains a pivotal moment in Tibetan history. On March 10 of that year, thousands of Tibetans revolted against China’s occupation, resulting in a brutal crackdown that forced the Dalai Lama and thousands of his followers into exile in India. Since then, March 10 has been observed as Tibetan Uprising Day — a symbol of defiance against Chinese control.
In 2025, this annual commemoration took a powerful turn. Protesters in New Delhi clashed with police outside the Chinese Embassy, demanding global attention on Tibet’s ongoing plight. Meanwhile, in Dharamshala — home to the Tibetan government-in-exile and the Dalai Lama — hundreds marched peacefully with Tibetan flags, chanting slogans advocating for Tibetan freedom and accusing China of cultural suppression.
Protesters’ Demands and Accusations
The demonstrators voiced deep concerns over China’s alleged efforts to erase Tibetan identity. Protesters claimed that Beijing’s policies have increasingly targeted Tibetan culture, language, and religious practices.
- Language Suppression: Protesters alleged that Chinese authorities were enforcing Mandarin language dominance in Tibetan schools, limiting the teaching of Tibetan language and cultural practices.
- Religious Control: Beijing’s efforts to appoint its own Panchen Lama — a key spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism — continue to anger Tibetan exiles, who see this move as a blatant attempt to manipulate Tibetan religious traditions.
- Human Rights Violations: Protesters highlighted reports of arbitrary detentions, surveillance, and restrictions on freedom of movement within Tibet.
Police Response and Escalation
In New Delhi, the protest outside the Chinese Embassy turned tense when demonstrators attempted to breach barricades. Security forces intervened, resulting in several detentions. Protesters accused authorities of using excessive force, while police stated they were acting to maintain public order.
In Dharamshala, the atmosphere was calmer yet emotionally charged. Demonstrators marched with portraits of the Dalai Lama and banners reading “Free Tibet” and “Stop Cultural Genocide.” The march concluded with speeches from Tibetan leaders urging international support for their cause.
Global Reactions and Diplomatic Tensions
The protests drew international attention, with human rights organizations criticizing China’s alleged suppression of Tibetan culture. The U.S. State Department expressed concern over China’s human rights record in Tibet, while several European Union leaders urged Beijing to engage in meaningful dialogue with Tibetan representatives.
China, however, dismissed the protests as “misguided,” accusing Tibetan activists of spreading separatist propaganda. The Chinese Embassy in New Delhi condemned the demonstrations, reiterating that Tibet remains an “inseparable part of China.”
The Road Ahead for Tibetan Activism
Despite decades in exile, the Tibetan community continues to fight for greater autonomy and cultural preservation. Young Tibetans, many of whom were born in exile, are now taking on leadership roles in the movement, blending traditional advocacy with modern digital campaigns to amplify their message globally.
As Tibetans reflect on 66 years of struggle, the protests in 2025 served as a reminder that their quest for identity, freedom, and justice remains far from over. The movement continues to evolve, driven by a new generation determined to keep the Tibetan cause alive on the world stage.
