Chinese authorities implement new restrictions on Tibetan children during winter break
Beijing [China]: Chinese authorities have enforced new measures that severely limit Tibetan children's cultural and religious freedoms as Tibetans usher in the winter school break, according to a report by Radio Free Asia (RFA).
Restrictions on Tibetan language lessons
The restrictions, which began on December 30, aim to curb the use of the Tibetan language and reduce participation in religious practices. A significant aspect of the policy is the prohibition of private Tibetan-language lessons. Students across Tibet, including the capital Lhasa, are now barred from participating in extracurricular Tibetan education during the two-month winter break.
Push for Mandarin and political education
Instead of Tibetan lessons, authorities mandate children to focus on improving their Mandarin skills. The curriculum includes lessons centred on Chinese political education and state-approved content. This shift is part of an effort to promote assimilation into Han Chinese culture.
Ban on religious symbols and activities
In several regions, including Dzoge (Zoige) and Ngaba (Aba) counties in Sichuan province, children are further restricted from wearing religious symbols or participating in religious activities. Families are prohibited from taking children to monasteries or involving them in any religious ceremonies, RFA reported.
Broader campaign to undermine Tibetan culture
These measures reflect a broader campaign to undermine Tibetan culture. Authorities have expressed concerns over the use of the Tibetan language, viewing it as a barrier to achieving full integration. Students are now limited to academic activities dictated by the Chinese government, which heavily emphasises political indoctrination.
Strict enforcement across Tibetan regions
Reports from areas such as Golog (Guoluo) in Qinghai province and Kardze in Sichuan indicate strict enforcement of these policies. Authorities have been conducting random checks in residential areas and commercial establishments to ensure compliance.
Surveillance to prevent private lessons
Authorities closely monitor students to ensure they do not engage in unauthorised private lessons or religious activities. Random inspections aim to detect and deter any attempts to maintain Tibetan cultural practices outside the state-approved curriculum.
Assimilation into China's framework
These new measures are seen as part of an ongoing effort by Beijing to erase Tibetan identity. The restrictions contribute to integrating Tibet further into China's political and cultural framework, leaving little room for preserving its unique heritage.
(With ANI inputs)
