Tibetan PM calls for maintaining peace in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, May 6 (UNI) Tibetan Government-in-exile Prime Minister Samdhong Rinpoche has appealed to the Tibetan community to maintain calm and harmony after clashes between the community and local taxi operators a few days ago.

Mr Rinpoche, addressing the community yesterday, said he had been living in the country for the last 48 years and except for two or three days of violence in 1994, the community has lived here with peace and harmony.

Referring to the China's interest in creating a hedge between the community and the local people, he said since the People's Republic of China could exploit such minor incidents and take advantage of this, the community should exercise due caution.

He asked the Tibetan community to find solution to their problem or any complaints by taking legal recourse or by seeking help from the local administration, which had been very helpful towards them.

At least four people were injured in clashes between the Tibetan community and the local taxi operators on Wednesday night, creating tension in the town.

Later, talking to mediapersons Mr Rinpoche said, he had come here to address the Tibetan people personally to tell them about the designs of the Chinese Government's attempt to derail the Tibetan movement.

''I have asked the community to take all precautions and not allow such incidents to happen again.'' The Tibetan Prime Minister said he had set up a three-member committee to keep vigil on the activities of the community and ensure such incidents do not occur in future.

Referring to the issue of boycott of local taxis and auto rickshaws by the Tibetan Government, he said that there was no official call from the government or any other governmental agency.

''The Tibetan Government just cannot boycott the local taxis,'' he added.

UNI