Tibetans and Tibet supporters across the globe are calling for the release of political prisoner Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche on medical parole.
Rinpoche, a highly respected lama in Lithang county, Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture was arrested in April 2002 for allegedly being involved in a bomb attack. The accusations against him were considered flawed and unfair by numerous international human rights organizations, whose protests and pressure helped commute his death sentence to life in imprisonment.
Tenzin Jigdal, International Coordinator, International Tibet Network tells VOA's Tibetan Service that they are deeply concerned of Rinpoche's current state and believes it is critical to have him released on medical parole considering the severe deterioration of his health over the years.
"If we look at the history of Tibetan political prisoners that were granted medical parole, many have succesfully attained help in the United States, Switzerland, and elsewhere. That makes us hopeful for his release," he added.
According to a recent information obtained by the Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy based in Dharamsala, Rinpoche is said to be in critical health condition with worsening heart condition while simultaneously suffering from nervous breakdowns.
Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche is now 64 years old and has served 13 years in prison.