Opinion | Editorials
Rebellion among the men of peace
Buddhist monks are taking an active part in politics in some parts of Asia.
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:01 March 16, 2008
China's crackdown on the demonstrators in Tibet shows the typical vigour with which the central government deals with such protests. The demonstrations started six days ago as a peaceful protest to recognise the anniversary of a 1959 uprising against Chinese rule. Surprisingly, but as in Myanmar recently, Buddhist monks were the initiators. Yet they were soon joined by crowds of ordinary people wanting to protest Chinese rule and what is perceived as suppression.
After several days where the regional government allowed peaceful demonstrations, officials had to act to ensure the security and safety of the citizens as violence erupted. It is alleged by the official Chinese media that 10 people were burnt to death, and the protest included looting. As many reports emanating from Tibet are difficult to verify, an accurate record of the number of deaths and the amount of looting cannot be confirmed. However, if Chinese officials are admitting to some taking place, then it can be interpreted as being more serious than possibly imagined.
In line with most of the world except, curiously, Asia, all that can be asked of the regional and central governments is that the minimum of force is used to quell the violence.
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