Tibet: The War of Monks "FROM" Psychological Warfare Units without Weapons "TO" a Secretive Military?

For centuries, Tibet has remained a captivating land, where ancient traditions, political turmoil, and diverse spiritual beliefs intertwine. Nestled in the awe-inspiring Himalayas, Tibet's journey towards independence and the remarkable efforts of the Tibetan Army have largely gone unnoticed on the world stage. Today, we shed light on this overlooked chapter in history, revealing the story of resistance and resilience that defines Tibet.

In 1912, the return of the 13th Dalai Lama from exile marked a turning point for Tibet. Determined to safeguard the nation's newfound independence and protect its sovereignty, the Dalai Lama envisioned a professional army. Yet, his plans faced opposition from pro-Chinese monks, especially those from the influential Drepung Monastery. Unyielding in his mission, the Dalai Lama entrusted his advisor, Tsarong, with the daunting task of establishing the Tibetan Army.

Forming the Tibetan Army proved to be a challenging endeavor, marred by internal conflicts. Officials from the Gelug sect feared the influence of foreign ideologies, opposing the allocation of funds and resources for military purposes. Monasteries, which held significant power, were hesitant to support the army, leading to heightened tensions that forced the evacuation of Lhasa during festivals to prevent violence. Additionally, strained relations with the 9th Panchen Lama culminated in his escape to Mongolia.

External threats loomed large as well. With the Chinese Communist Party's consolidation of power in eastern China in 1949, the focus shifted towards the reintegration of peripheral regions like Tibet. Recognizing the potential for guerrilla warfare in Tibet's rugged mountains, China sought negotiations on Tibet's political status. However, while the Tibetan government strengthened its military capabilities, it delayed and stalled the negotiation process.

The military history of the Tibetan Army is marked by battles against Chinese warlords and the forces of the Republic of China. A significant triumph occurred in 1917 when the Tibetan Army captured western Kham from Chinese control. However, political control over the Kham region beyond the Upper Yangtze River remained limited for the Tibetan government.

Despite their determination, the Tibetan Army faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to their downfall. Inadequate equipment, internal divisions, and the ineffectiveness of the Tibetan government weakened their resistance. As the People's Liberation Army (PLA) advanced towards Chamdo in 1950, where the majority of the Tibetan Army was garrisoned, surrender became inevitable.

The Tibetan Army was armed with rifles such as Lee-Enfield and Lee-Metford, Sten submachine guns, mountain guns, heavy machine guns, and mortars. Arms and ammunition were acquired from the British government, with support from Indian military instructors. However, concerns over Tibet's territorial claims and outstanding debts limited the assistance provided by Britain and India.

Foreign advisors played a significant role within the Tibetan Army, with individuals from Britain, Austria, Japan, and Russia serving in various capacities. British influence, in particular, was notable, as Tibetan officers commanded in English, and British tunes resonated through the Tibetan Army band.

The rise and fall of the Tibetan Army epitomize the intricate dynamics and power struggles that have shaped Tibet's history. It stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Tibetan people in the face of adversity. Yet, the global community has largely turned a blind eye to Tibet's quest for independence and the sacrifices made by its army.

Today, Tibet remains under Chinese control, grappling with limited autonomy and the relentless suppression of its cultural and religious heritage due to the 17 Points Agreement signed between Tibet and China. Despite awareness of ongoing human rights violations, the international community has prioritized economic and political considerations over Tibet's plight, maintaining a regrettable silence.

Tibet stands as the spiritual heartland of Buddhism, revered as a sanctuary for seekers of enlightenment. The profound teachings of the Buddha have permeated every aspect of Tibetan culture, instilling a deep reverence for life's sacred mysteries and nurturing a peaceful way of being. Monastic institutions, including the iconic Potala Palace, have stood as beacons of wisdom, guiding generations towards spiritual awakening.

Beyond the realm of Buddhism, Tibet's spiritual tapestry expands to encompass Mount Kailash, an extraordinary mountain of immense significance. Believed to be the earthly manifestation of Mount Meru—a revered peak in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmology—Mount Kailash attracts countless pilgrims from diverse faiths. For Tibetans, it holds a special place as the abode of Lord Shiva, affectionately known as Bhole Baba.

In the tranquil state of Bhole Baba, Lord Shiva personifies benevolence, compassion, and serenity. However, when he opens his third eye, his gaze unleashes an uncontrollable force, making him one of the most formidable and powerful deities in Hindu mythology. This juxtaposition of calm and destructive aspects in Lord Shiva reflects the delicate balance between creation and dissolution, a reminder of the profound duality within existence.

Mount Kailash, radiating profound spiritual energy, has become a pilgrimage site for seekers of inner transformation. Every year, devotees embark on the arduous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage that entails circumambulating the sacred mountain. This transformative journey is believed to bestow profound blessings, purify the soul, and liberate one from the cycle of birth and death. The pilgrimage is a powerful testament to the unbreakable bond between humanity and the divine, transcending the boundaries of faith and nationality.

However, amidst Tibet's spiritual heritage and the poignant struggles of the Tibetan Army, the international community has largely overlooked Tibet's plea for independence. The silence and inaction of the world have cast a shadow over the fundamental rights and cultural preservation of the Tibetan people.

In the year 2020, at a funeral ceremony held in the mountains of northern India, a senior aide to Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to a Tibetan soldier who lost his life in clashes with China. This gesture, which included full military honours and the display of both Indian and Tibetan flags, has the potential to further exacerbate the ongoing border dispute between the two nations. Moreover, it raises questions about India's stance on China's sovereignty over Tibet, a sensitive issue for Beijing that views separatism as a threat across various regions.

The involvement of exiled Tibetans and the utilization of Tibetan symbols during the ceremony hold significant implications. The act sends a powerful message that India is willing to openly acknowledge the contribution of Tibetan soldiers, something that has rarely been done in recent decades.

Despite the meetings between the foreign ministers of India and China in Moscow, tensions along the border remain at a high point. Both sides continue to strengthen their forces in the disputed area, crucial for controlling strategic Himalayan mountain passes. Reports indicate that China has even moved fighter planes and heavy bombers to the Indian frontier, a move not seen even during the 1962 war between the two nations.

While war is not in the interest of either India or China, the intensifying friction and increased military presence raise concerns about the possibility of a more sustained conflict. Analysts at Eurasia Group have raised the probability of boundary skirmishes escalating into a broader military conflict to 15%.

Tibet has long been a contentious issue in India-China relations since the Dalai Lama sought refuge in India following a failed uprising in 1959. The establishment of the Special Frontier Force, a military unit comprising Tibetan refugees, soon after the 1962 war with China, further complicated matters. This covert unit, similar to U.S. special forces, operates undercover in collaboration with the Indian military.

Jayadeva Ranade, a member of the National Security Council Advisory Board, highlights the significance of India's recognition of the Tibetan soldiers, emphasizing that it conveys a clear message to China. Ranade explains that the acknowledgement signifies that Tibetan soldiers are fighting alongside Indian forces, a message that has not been conveyed openly.

While both India and China attempt to downplay the significance of the Tibetan soldiers, the public funeral of Nyima Tenzin, the deceased Tibetan soldier, and the presence of Indian officials at the ceremony have resonated within the Tibetan exile community. Gonpo Dhundup, president of the Tibetan Youth Congress, believes that the acknowledgement, no matter how brief, has sent a powerful message that their contributions will be recognized.

As the border dispute between India and China continues, the recognition of Tibetan soldiers by India adds a new dimension to the conflict. It underscores the complex nature of the India-China relationship and raises concerns about the potential for further escalation. The situation calls for diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and prevent a broader conflict that neither side desires.

The question of whether India's recognition of Tibetan soldiers can be seen as a step towards reclaiming Mount Kailash for Hindu monks and Tibet for Buddhist monks remains unanswered for now. However, it is evident that there are strong indications within India that the ongoing psychological warfare waged by monks may be accompanied by a silent and covert military presence in the region.