Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: Tibetan Democracy Day, celebrated on September 2nd, marks the establishment of the Tibetan democratic system in exile.
- It commemorates the inauguration of the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamshala over six decades ago. The day is known as Mangsto Duchen and signifies the beginning of Tibetan democracy, governing over 1 lakh Tibetan refugees worldwide through the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
Tibetan democratic system:
The Tibetan democratic system evolved with the first elected representatives taking their oaths in Bodh Gaya in 1960, and the Tibetan constitution, based on democratic ideals and universal values, was enacted by the Dalai Lama in 1963.
In 1975, the CTA declared September 2nd as the founding day of Tibetan democracy. The system comprises three pillars of democracy, including the executive head known as the Sikyong, who took over from the Dalai Lama in 2011.
India maintains a policy of not recognizing a separate government of Tibet in India but regards the Dalai Lama as a revered religious leader. Tibetans in exile recognize the CTA as their legitimate government.
