Sikkim devotees disappointed over cancellation of Karmapa Lama’s visit
By ANIWednesday, February 2, 2011
DHARAMSALA - Devotees are disappointed over the cancellation of the 17th Karmapa Lama Ogyen Trinley Dorje’s visit to the famous Rumtek monastery in Sikkim.
The Government of India has put Karmapa Lama’s visit to Sikkim on hold, as he has been put under the scanner after a huge sum of foreign currency of at least 25 countries, including China, which is estimated as being worth 60 million rupees, was recovered from his monastery a couple of days ago.
Karma Topden, Advisor to the Karmapa Lama’s office in Dharamsala, on Wednesday said that the people of Sikkim would be happy if the spiritual leader visits the monastery.
“If Government of India gives permission for the Karmapa to go to Sikkim, then the people of Sikkim, the Buddhists of Sikkim and also the non-Buddhists of Sikkim will be very happy,” said Topden.
The Karmapa Lama has been put under questioning with the Enforcement Directorate officials, and continues to remain under the scanner for his alleged Chinese links.
Police have so far arrested several people in connection with the seizure and raided several places in Himachal Pradesh and New Delhi.
During questioning, Karmapa had said he was not aware of the seizure of foreign currency worth over Rs 7.5 crore from the monastery and maintained that Shakti Lama and Gompu Tshering handled the affairs of the trust.
Karmapa’s office had also maintained that Karmapa had nothing to do with currency and money was received by way of offerings and donations from disciples coming from different parts of the world, including China and Tibet.
Rabjaychojan also known as Shakti Lama, a close aide of the Karmapa Lama, has been sent to police custody till February 5, in connection with the case.
Karmapa Lama lives in exile along with the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, the centre of the self-proclaimed Tibetan government-in-exile.
Karmapa Lama is the spiritual head of the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and is the third most important leader in Tibetan hierarchy after the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama.
He is widely tipped by many to lead the Tibetan movement in exile after the Dalai Lama. (ANI)
