ICT highlights Tibetan monk Dhargye's 7-year sentence as "stark example" of religious repression

In a report published on April 8, 2026, ICT revealed that the 63-year-old monk has reportedly been sentenced to seven years in prison after spending more than four years in incommunicado detention.

According to ICT, Dhargye was arrested on August 5, 2021, in Lhasa along with two others.

While his companions were released months later, Dhargye remained in custody and effectively disappeared from public view.

For years, his family received no clear information about his whereabouts, with authorities allegedly providing misleading assurances about his well-being and possible release.

Details of his sentencing only surfaced in early 2026.

According to ICT, the charges against him include making traditional Tibetan Buddhist offerings to the Dalai Lama and assisting monks attempting to leave Tibet.

Such acts, considered religious expressions in Tibetan Buddhism, are reportedly treated by Chinese authorities as political offences under "stability maintenance" policies.

ICT has expressed serious concern over the secrecy surrounding the legal proceedings.

Dhargye's family was not informed about his charges, trial, or place of detention, and he has reportedly been denied all visits.

His health condition remains unknown, raising fears given his age.

The report also notes that Dhargye's brother and others were detained in a separate case for conducting traditional religious rituals, with one individual reportedly dying due to alleged mistreatment in custody.

ICT argues that the handling of Dhargye's case violates both China's domestic legal provisions and international human rights standards, particularly those related to due process and protection from enforced disappearance.

The organisation states that the case reflects broader concerns over restrictions on religious freedom in Tibet and calls for greater transparency and accountability. (ANI)