Tibetan Refugees Describe "Unprovoked Attack" by Chinese Soldiers

A group of Tibetan refugees, allegedly fired upon by Chinese soldiers on September 30, have described the incident as an "unprovoked attack" where they were shot at without warning. The refugees, who were attempting to flee to Nepal, were left reeling after the incident, with one 12-year-old boy claiming that his friend was among those killed. The Chinese government has disputed the claims, stating that the soldiers fired in self-defense.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident occurred on September 30, when a group of 41 Tibetan refugees were allegedly fired upon by Chinese soldiers at the Nangpa La Pass.
  • The refugees claimed that there was no warning before the shooting, and they were forced to flee in different directions to escape.
  • At least one refugee, Kalsamg Namtso, was reportedly killed in the incident, according to Dolma Palkyid, an aspiring Buddhist nun.
  • Another refugee, Losange Choeden, evaded Chinese army personnel for two days and crossed the border into Nepal alone.
  • The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has expressed concerns for the safety of 32 refugees who are now missing, fearing they may have been killed.
  • The incident was filmed by mountaineers at the Nangpa La Pass, but the Chinese government has disputed the claims, stating that the soldiers fired in self-defense.

Statistics:

  • 41 refugees were allegedly fired upon by Chinese soldiers on September 30.
  • At least one refugee, Kalsamg Namtso, was reported killed in the incident.
  • 32 refugees are now missing, sparking concerns for their safety.
  • The incident occurred at the Nangpa La Pass.
  • The Chinese government has disputed the claims of an "unprovoked attack".

Sources:

  • PTI (23 Oct)
  • Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy
  • Interviews with Tibetan refugees (names and names of organizations as mentioned in the original text)