International Tibet Mukti Divas, also known as International Tibetan Liberation Day, is observed every year on May 23. and the significance of the day dates back to 1951 when the Chinese government forcibly imposed its 17-point agenda on Tibet. On May 23, 1951, the Chinese government imposed its 17-point agenda on Tibet and allegedly forced the Tibetan authorities to sign the agenda papers. Thus, some refer to the day as Black Day for the Tibetan community.
Tibet gained independence in 1912
Tibetans consider this as Black Day, while the Chinese call it a day for peace efforts. The conflict between Tibet and China has been going on for decades. China says that Tibet has been part of China since the 13th century and, therefore, has a right to Tibet. Meanwhile, Tibet rejects the claim from China. In 1912, the 13th Dalai Lama declared Tibet independent, and China did not raise any objection.
International Tibet Mukti Divas 2025 | Canva
Tibet flourished, and people lived in peace until a communist government came into power in China. Due to this government's expansionist policies, China invaded Tibet with thousands of soldiers in 1950. Dalai Lama was forced to sign a 17-point agreement. After this agreement, Tibet officially became part of China. However, the Dalai Lama did not accept the agreement, and he said that the agreement had been made under coercion.
What's the 17-point agenda all about?
This agenda states that there should be no interference with the position of the Dalai Lama and the protection of the language and culture of Tibet by Tibetans themselves. The agenda that was created by China was sidelined. Earlier, a joint agenda was also made between China and Tibet by both sides, but the Chinese government rejected it and imposed its own agenda on Tibet.
Why did the Dalai Lama flee from Lhasa?
China continued to occupy Tibet even after the Dalai Lama made the objection, which raised anger among the Tibetan people towards China, and that led to the beginning of violent protests in 1955. During its time, the uprising took place in which thousands of people lost their lives. In March 1959, thousands of people gathered outside after the news spread by China that they were going to take the Dalai Lama captive. Eventually, Dalai Lama, camouflaged as a soldier, fled from Tibet's capital, Lhasa, and later took shelter in India.
Significance of International Tibet Mukti Divas
International Tibet Mukti Divas serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for Tibetan autonomy and the continued human rights concerns within Tibet. This day commemorates the Chinese government's forced imposition of the 17-point agreement on Tibet in 1951. This agreement seemingly allowed certain autonomy, but it led to the erosion of Tibetan cultural, religious, and political freedom.
