On this solemn occasion, marking the 37th anniversary of the United Nations Convention Against Torture, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for Free Tibet and Tibetan Women's Association stand in solidarity with the Tibetan human rights defenders, dissidents, and activists who have endured and continue to endure torture in and outside detention centres and prisons across Tibet.
In Tibet, torture remains a pervasive tool employed by Chinese authorities inside prisons and detention centres with electric shocks, beatings, prolonged solitary confinement, and more used not just to inflict physical pain but also to break the spirit of Tibetan political prisoners. The scars, both physical and psychological, leave a lasting impact even after their release, with a ripple effect on their families and communities.
Through this signature petition campaign, the four CSOs aim to shed light on the case of Trulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, a revered Tibetan religious and community leader who suffered wrongful imprisonment, beatings and torture, ultimately leading to his untimely death in Chinese custody. His case illustrates China's blatant disregard for international human rights standards, including the right to be free from torture as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention Against Torture.
Your action is crucial now more than ever. By signing this petition, you join us in urging the Chinese government to uphold its commitments under the Convention Against Torture, conduct transparent investigations into custodial deaths like that of Trulku Tenzin Delek, and hold accountable those responsible for such egregious human rights violations. Your signature is a voice for justice and a stand against impunity.
Together, let us honour the memory of those who have suffered and demand an end to the systemic use of torture in Tibet. Sign the petition to ensure their voices are heard and their stories remembered.
Why it is important:
This petition serves as a critical call to action for governments, civil society organisations, and individuals worldwide to hold China accountable for its systematic use of torture and other forms of inhuman treatment in Tibet.
By demanding accountability and transparency, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, alongside the Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for Free Tibet, and Tibetan Women's Association, strives to seek justice for victims like Trulku Tenzin Delek, prevent future atrocities, and uphold the fundamental principles of human rights for all. Every signature represents a powerful statement supporting justice, dignity, and the rule of law.
To:
Chinese government
From:
[Your Name]
Following the conclusion of the signature petition campaign, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), in conjunction with the three other civil societies, will submit letters urging the Chinese government to conduct an impartial investigation to clarify the circumstances that led to Trulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche’s death in custody and to prosecute those responsible. Nine years have passed since he died in custody. However, despite numerous calls from the international human rights organisation, UN experts and governments, the Chinese government has conducted no independent and impartial investigation.
This coordinated initiative aims to bring attention to the critical human rights issues faced by the Tibetans inside Tibet and calls for meaningful action to uphold their fundamental rights and freedoms.
