Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar Visits Tibetan Refugee Centre in Bylakuppe
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, visited the Tibetan Refugee Rehabilitation Center in Bylakuppe on Thursday as part of his two-day tour.
Thousands of Tibetan refugees came to India after China occupied Tibet in 1950. The Indian government helped them settle in Bylakuppe, providing homes and over 15,000 acres of land for farming. Today, Bylakuppe has become an important center for Tibetan Buddhism in South India, with more than 15,000 Tibetan refugees living there. The area has several monasteries, temples, and schools following Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
During his visit, Bandi Sanjay was warmly welcomed by representatives of the 14th Dalai Lama, including Jugme Jigne, the head representative of the Mysuru Tibetan colonies, and other officials. He visited the famous Golden Temple, where Buddhist leaders explained its religious importance. He also saw the 40-foot-tall statues of Padmasambhava, Buddha, and Amitayus. Additionally, he toured the Pennor Rinpoche Samadhi, Sera Lachi Philosophy University Temple, the Organic Research Training Centre, and the Old Age Home.
Later, he met with the Dalai Lama’s representatives, local officials, and Buddhist monks to discuss their concerns. One major issue raised was that many Tibetan refugees who arrived in India in 1950 still do not have Aadhaar cards. They requested a special Aadhaar centre in the region. They also asked for proper compensation for land lost due to road expansion projects. Tibetan farmers in Bylakuppe urged the minister to include them in Karnataka’s welfare schemes, which provide financial aid to local farmers.
Other concerns discussed included frequent elephant attacks, where victims receive no help, and visa-related challenges. The refugees explained that they face more travel restrictions compared to Indian citizens, making it difficult to visit family abroad or invite relatives to India.
In response, Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar assured them that he would take up their concerns and work towards finding solutions.
