24 January,2012
On January 23rd, 2012, a large number of Tibetan civilians from several villages are reported to have demonstrated in Drakgo county in Karze prefecture (Sichuan province). According to local sources, the police opened fire on the demonstrators, at least 32 people have been reported injured including 2 with serious injuries. Local sources have confirmed that three demonstrators were shot dead. The unrest is said to be ongoing, including in the local Tibetan nunnery.
On January 24th, 2012, a demonstration took place in Serthar county, Karze prefecture (Sichuan province). Police opened fired on demonstrators and two individuals are reported dead.
“The Central Tibetan Administration urges the international community to not remain passive before the current situation. It is high time for it to intervene to prevent further bloodshed. How long and how many tragic deaths are necessary before the world takes a firm moral stand? Silence from the world community sends a clear message to China that its repressive and violent measures to handle tensions in Tibetan areas are acceptable. As a nation aspiring to become a world economic and political power, the People’s Republic of China cannot be permitted to behave in such immoral and violent manner” stated Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay, head of the Central Tibetan Administration based in India.