India has adopted a neutral stance on the Dalai Lama's succession, emphasizing its commitment to religious freedom for all its residents. This position was articulated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in response to queries regarding the Dalai Lama's recent statements about the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian government does not take a position on matters concerning religious beliefs and practices. He affirmed that the government has consistently upheld freedom of religion within India and will continue to do so.

The Dalai Lama, who will be 90 years old on July 6, 2025, has stated that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, established by him, will be the sole authority to recognize his future reincarnation. This declaration is viewed as a direct message to China, which asserts its right to approve the next Dalai Lama. China's claim is based on the historical practice of using a "golden urn" to select Tibetan Buddhist leaders, a method rejected by the Dalai Lama and his followers.

The MEA's statement is seen as a carefully calibrated response, especially as India is working towards normalizing relations with China following a border standoff since 2020. It reflects a balanced approach, acknowledging China's sensitivities while also upholding India's constitutional commitment to religious freedom.

Earlier, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, a practicing Buddhist, had expressed support for the Dalai Lama's right to choose his successor. He clarified that he was speaking as a devotee and follower of the Dalai Lama, not on behalf of the government. Rijiju emphasized that the decision regarding the next Dalai Lama rests solely with the current Dalai Lama and the established conventions of the institution. He is set to attend celebrations in Dharamshala marking the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday on July 6 along with Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and the chief ministers of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

China has reacted strongly to the Dalai Lama's announcement, insisting that his reincarnation must be approved by the Chinese government. Chinese authorities have warned India against interfering in what they consider to be China's internal affairs. They maintain that the selection of the Dalai Lama's successor must follow the "golden urn" method.

The Dalai Lama's pronouncements and the subsequent reactions have added complexity to the already strained relations between India and China. These relations have been tense since the border clashes of 2020 and China's growing ties with Pakistan. India's decision to refrain from commenting on the selection process is a diplomatic move aimed at managing these tensions while staying true to its principles of religious freedom.

The MEA's position underscores India's long-standing policy of non-interference in religious matters, while simultaneously ensuring the protection of religious freedom for all its residents, including the large Tibetan refugee community. This approach aims to navigate the sensitive issue of the Dalai Lama's succession in a way that respects both religious autonomy and international relations.