India’s Ministry of External Affairs clarified today that “there is no government stance on matters of belief,” following comments by Minister Kiren Rijiju supporting the Dalai Lama’s position on appointing his own successor. The MEA emphasized that this is a personal matter for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan tradition. This statement reportedly came after Indian officials downplayed Rijiju’s earlier remarks, stating the government does not take a position on the reincarnation process. Despite India hosting the Dalai Lama since 1959 and recognising Tibet as part of China, New Delhi maintains it will not intervene in spiritual matters—a stance clearly distinct from China’s assertive position claiming authority over the next Dalai Lama’s selection. This development unfolds amid growing tensions with Beijing, which has warned that interference in the succession could jeopardize India–China diplomatic ties.

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