During the days surrounding March 10, the anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan uprising, further repressive measures were taken by the authorities.
The Jokhang Temple in central Lhasa was closed from March 8-10. The announcement was made at very short notice on March 6; allegedly the temple was subjected to "cleansing works". The Jokhang has been the scene of several protests and self-immolations in the past. Furthermore, streets in the periphery were closed from March 6th to 12th to "renew water pipes". The reason for the ban may be real, but it is still surprising that this extensive work is being carried out exactly around the sensitive date of March 10th.
The state media published photos of police officers conducting checks in private homes and cars, apparently as a deterrent. The photos show how books and mobile phones in particular are checked for unwanted content. A 23-year-old Tibetan woman named Yangtso was arrested in Shigatse. Photos and messages that she had sent to people abroad were found on her mobile phone. Her family said they do not know where Yangtso is currently being held.
International Campaign for Tibet, March 7, 2023 // Radio Free Asia, March 6 and 9, 2023 // dr. Uwe Meya
Photo: Radio Free Asia
