“China’s Colonial Game in Tibet” Book Launched Ahead of Tibetan National Uprising Day

DHARAMSHALA — A new book titled “China’s Colonial Game in Tibet” was officially launched on March 6, 2026, days before the annual observance of Tibetan National Uprising Day on March 10. The event, held in the Indian hill town that is home to the Tibetan government‑in‑exile, brought together activists, authors, and community leaders to spotlight what they describe as decades‑long colonial‑style policies by China in Tibet.

The book, published by the Centre for Himalayan Asia Studies And Engagement (CHASE), compiles essays and analyses by nearly 40 authors including Tibetan scholars, activists, and international observers. The contributors examine what they describe as China’s “colonial” strategies in Tibet, covering issues such as the status of Tibet before and after Chinese occupation, efforts to influence Tibetan religion and culture, environmental degradation, and the educational system under Communist governance.

Tsering Choephel, a Tibetan activist, and Vijay Kranti, an Indian journalist and co‑editor of the book, hosted the launch ceremony. Tibetan poet and activist Tenzin Tsundue moderated the event, which drew Tibetan residents from Dharamshala and supporters from across the region.

At the launch, speakers emphasised that the book seeks to present a “comprehensive narrative” that goes beyond surface‑level reporting, aiming to document what they call “the inhumane and prominent dimensions” of China’s rule in Tibet. According to the editors, the work is intended to counter narratives that they say suppress the voices of Tibetans and others subjected to repressive policies under Chinese authority.

Topics discussed during the event included the status of the Tibetan government‑in‑exile, the future recognition of the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, cultural and linguistic erasure, and the environmental impact of large infrastructure projects in the region. Organisers said that the book also seeks to draw parallels between the Tibetan struggle and other regions with similar experiences of repression under Chinese Communist Party policies.

Organisers and speakers underscored that the launch was deliberately timed ahead of Tibetan National Uprising Day, a day commemorated by Tibetan communities worldwide to remember the 1959 uprising against Chinese control. They said the publication aims to renew global focus on Tibet’s political future and highlight ongoing concerns about human rights and cultural survival.

In addition to the book launch, international Tibetan support groups attending the event issued a joint statement condemning current repressive policies in Tibet and calling for renewed dialogue between the Chinese government and representatives of the Dalai Lama’s administration. The statement reiterated calls for international governments and organisations to respond more actively to what organisers describe as “systemic human rights abuses” in the region.

The event drew attention from Tibetan communities and activists across the world, with organisers saying they hope the book will serve as an educational resource and advocacy tool ahead of Uprising Day commemorations globally.