China Protests Modi’s Birthday Wishes to Dalai Lama, Objects to Indian Officials’ Presence at Celebrations

China has officially protested to India after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday greetings to the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday, and senior Indian leaders attended the celebrations in Dharamshala.

During a press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the 14th Dalai Lama is a “political exile” who has long been involved in what Beijing considers “anti-China separatist activities,” aimed at separating Tibet — referred to by China as “Xizang” — from Chinese rule.

“The Chinese government’s position on Xizang-related issues is consistent and clear,” Mao said. “As is widely known, the 14th Dalai Lama is a political exile who has long engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion.”

Beijing criticized India for not respecting its sensitivities around Tibet and urged New Delhi to avoid actions it considers interference in China’s internal affairs. “India needs to be fully cognizant of the sensitivity of issues related to Xizang, see clearly the anti-China and separatist nature of the Dalai Lama, honor the commitments it has made, act prudently, and stop using these issues to interfere,” Mao added.

India has yet to officially respond to the Chinese protest. However, PM Modi’s message to the Dalai Lama on July 6 described him as “an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline,” adding, “His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.

Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, along with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Sikkim Minister Sonam Lama, attended the celebrations in Dharamshala, where the Tibetan spiritual leader lives in exile.

Meanwhile, China’s Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, also weighed in on the issue, posting on X about the Dalai Lama's reincarnation. He emphasized that the reincarnation process has followed a set tradition for 700 years and that the current Dalai Lama does not have the authority to alter it. “The reincarnation of Dalai Lamas neither began from him nor will end due to him,” he said.

India, however, reiterated its neutral stance on the matter. Responding to questions on the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:

“The Government of India does not take any position or speak on matters concerning beliefs and practices of faith and religion. The government has always upheld freedom of religion for all in India and will continue to do so.”

The Dalai Lama himself recently stated that the institution would continue after his death and that only he has the authority to decide on his successor — who, he added, will be born outside of China.