Tibetans in India Express Sadness Over China's Use of 'Xizang' Instead of 'Tibet' After Earthquake
Tibetans in India Express Sadness Over China's Use of 'Xizang' Instead of 'Tibet'
In Dharamshala, India, Tibetans living in exile are upset as China uses the term 'Xizang' for Tibet, especially after a recent earthquake. Activist Tenzin Phakdon from Students for a Free Tibet expressed sorrow over the loss of lives due to the earthquake and criticized media for using 'Xizang' instead of 'Tibet'. Another activist, Tenzin Rinzin, called it a move by China to distort Tibet's history. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.1, struck Shigatse, Tibet, causing significant casualties and was felt in nearby regions. Tibetans in Dharamshala held prayers for the victims.
Earthquake Details
The earthquake occurred on January 7, with its epicenter in Shigatse, Tibet. It resulted in at least 126 deaths and over 100 injuries. The tremors were felt in Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of northern India. The United States Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at 7.1 on the Richter scale, while China's Earthquake Networks Center noted it as 6.8. Following the quake, 49 aftershocks were reported.
Community Response
In response to the tragedy, hundreds of Tibetans in exile gathered in Dharamshala for a night of prayers led by monks and nuns at the Tsuglagkhang temple. The event was organized by four major Tibetan NGOs: the Tibetan Youth Congress, the Tibetan Women's Association, Students for a Free Tibet, and the National Democratic Party of Tibet.
Doubts Revealed
Tibetans in exile
Tibetans in exile are people from Tibet who have left their home country and are living in another country, like India, because they cannot return home due to political reasons.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala is a city in India, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for being the home of the Dalai Lama and many Tibetans who have left Tibet.
Xizang
Xizang is the name that China uses for the region known as Tibet. Some people feel that using this name is a way to change or control the history and identity of Tibet.
Magnitude 7.1 earthquake
An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 is a very strong earthquake. The magnitude is a number that tells us how powerful an earthquake is, and 7.1 means it can cause a lot of damage.
Shigatse
Shigatse is a city in Tibet, which is a region in Asia. It is the second-largest city in Tibet and was affected by the earthquake.
Tibetan NGOs
Tibetan NGOs are non-governmental organizations that work to help Tibetan people and preserve their culture and rights. They often organize events and support the Tibetan community.
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