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India's Relations With Tibetan Lama Have Become Tense

By Howard M. Friedman

Today's New York Times carries a front-page article on the government of India's complicated  relations with Ogyen Trinley Dorje, the third ranking lama of Tibetan Buddhism. Known as the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje arrived in India in 2000 at the age of 14, recounting a daring escape from Tibet. Indian intelligence sources and many members of the public have been suspicious of him however, fearing he is being used by China with whom Indian relations have become more tense. Currently confined to a mountain side Gyuoto monastery near Dharamsala, the 17th Karmapa is attempting to claim the Rumtek Monastery built by his predecessor near the Indian border in Sikkim.  However two rivals for the title of the 17th Karmapa are also claiming the site. Given the uncertainty of his legal claims, Ogyen Trinley Dorje is also attempting to purchase other land for a new monastery. However now Indian police are investigating after nearly $1 million in foreign currency, including $166,000 in Chinese currency, was found at the Karmapa's residence. His lawyers say the money represents offerings from followers who have made pilgrimages over the years. They say it is being stored in a dormitory room shared by monks because the Karmapa is awaiting action on an application filed with the government several years ago to permit him to accept foreign currency. For the past week, thousands of monks have been holding candlelight vigils to support the Karmapa.

Full post as published by Religion Clause on February 08, 2011 (boomark / email).