The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile urges international pressure on China and Vietnam after the untimely death of Tulku Hungkar Dorjee Rinpoche, a spiritual leader allegedly targeted for his religious and cultural beliefs.
BY PC Bureau
The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile has expressed deep sorrow and alarm over the death of Tulku Rigzin Hungkar Dorjee Rinpoche, the 56-year-old spiritual leader of Lung-ngon Monastery in Gade County, Golog, Tibet, who reportedly died in late March while in Chinese custody in Vietnam.
Rinpoche, a highly revered figure within the Tibetan Buddhist community, was arrested in Ho Chi Minh City on 25 March 2025, according to international media sources. His death was publicly announced by Lung-ngon Monastery on 3 April, though Chinese authorities have yet to release any official statement or explanation.
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Reports indicate that Rinpoche had previously been subjected to interrogation by Chinese authorities in Tibet in August 2024. He faced politically motivated accusations, including allegedly failing to organize a reception for Gyaltsen Norbu, the Beijing-appointed Panchen Lama. Other charges included composing long-life prayers for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and not enforcing state-mandated education policies in schools affiliated with his monastery.
The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile has raised serious concerns over the “highly suspicious” circumstances of Rinpoche’s death and the Chinese government’s refusal to return his body or permit any visitations for followers or family members to pay their respects.
“His Holiness Tulku Rigzin Hungkar Dorjee Rinpoche was a deeply respected teacher, known for his unwavering commitment to compassion, peace, and non-violence,” the Tibetan Parliament said in a statement. “His loss is a devastating blow to the Tibetan spiritual community and raises troubling questions about his treatment in custody.”
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In response to the incident, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile is calling on the international community to pressure both the Vietnamese and Chinese governments to:
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Conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances of Rinpoche’s detention and death, and make the findings public.
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Allow forensic experts to examine the body in accordance with international standards.
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Ensure the timely return of Rinpoche’s remains to Lung-ngon Monastery for traditional Tibetan Buddhist funeral rites.
The Parliament emphasized that transparency and accountability are crucial to uphold human rights and ensure justice for spiritual leaders targeted under oppressive policies.
As international concern grows, Tibetan communities across the world are mourning the loss and urging global leaders to take meaningful action.
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