In a chilling display of repression, Chinese authorities in Ponkor Village, Golog, have arrested over twenty Tibetans, including renowned Tibetan language activist Khenpo Tenpa Dhargye. Among those detained, Gonpo Namgyal, a respected village leader, died after suffering brutal torture involving beatings and electrocution. His death has sparked outrage and deep concern for the safety of the other detainees.
According to local sources, Gonpo Namgyal was arrested in May 2024 alongside Khenpo Tenpa Dhargye and other villagers from Dharlag County, Golog. After months of detention and reported torture, Gonpo was released on December 15, 2024, only to succumb to his injuries three days later.
“His body bore horrifying signs of electrocution and internal burns. The cremation at Thraling Monastery was a somber testament to the inhumanity inflicted upon him,” shared a grief-stricken relative.
The arrests stem from the activities of a Tibetan language group led by Khenpo Tenpa Dhargye, a trusted associate of the late Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok of Larung Gar. Khenpo Dhargye’s initiatives, including the promotion of “Pure Mother Tongue” activism, have been instrumental in preserving Tibetan linguistic and cultural heritage. His advocacy against the slaughter of livestock, often addressing large gatherings of nomadic families, made him a beloved figure—but also a target for Chinese authorities.
“His unwavering commitment to Dharma and the Tibetan language has clearly threatened Beijing’s agenda of cultural erasure,” remarked a local resident.
For seven months, the twenty detainees have been subjected to systematic abuse. Local sources describe the conditions as “inhumane,” with regular reports of torture emerging from the detention facilities in Golog. The recent death of Gonpo Namgyal has intensified fears for Khenpo Dhargye’s safety.
“Beijing’s strategy is clear: crush Tibetan identity through fear and brutality. This is not governance; it’s genocide by other means,” said an anonymous source from within Tibet.
In the wake of this tragedy, Tibetan devotees across the region have rallied to offer prayers for Khenpo Dhargye’s health and release. Monks at various monasteries have initiated Merit Accumulation Prayers for the Protection of Body, while followers gather in silent defiance, reciting sacred texts for their beloved leader.
“The Khenpo is not just a teacher; he is our lifeline to the Dharma. We will not abandon him in this dark hour,” said a sobbing devotee.
The death of Gonpo Namgyal and the continued detention of Khenpo Dhargye and others underscore the urgent need for international attention. China’s aggressive crackdown on Tibetan activists and cultural preservation efforts is a gross violation of human rights.
“Golog has become a microcosm of Beijing’s broader campaign to eradicate Tibetan identity. The world must not stand idly by as lives are lost and a culture is systematically destroyed,” said a spokesperson for a Tibetan advocacy group.
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