Because Tibetans in Nepal Also have Rights!

Yet another prayer gathering by Tibetans in Kathmandu was busted. This now seems like a regular affair. And that is sad.

Given the geopolitics of the region Nepal's decision to adhere to the "One China Policy" cannot be criticized. But these over zealous attempt to please our Chinese friends (read overlords) by equating any Tibetan gathering as anti-China and cracking down on it brutally must stop. There needs to be an internal dialogue in Nepal about how important we think freedom of speech is in this country, and how far we are ready to go for the sake of friendship. As far as I am concerned: while in Nepal if someone wants to question the nature of Chinese governance in Tibet, Sri Lankan governance in Northern Sri Lanka, American bases around the world, or Indian governance in Kashmir, we should allow them the privilege. That's what free societies do.

I have nothing against a friendly relations with China. I think its much needed. The Chinese have been good friends to Nepal. But the last time I checked Nepal was not a part of China. So lets stop acting as if we are! It also surprises me that not many Nepali "pro-freedom", and "human rights" advocates cry out about this.

No one here promotes anti-china activities in Nepal. But we need to support human rights in China, and freedom of speech in Nepal.