Archive · 26 Jul 2025
China Demolishes Tibetan Stupas in Drakgo Amid Cultural Suppression
Imagine the Chinese government is knocking down important religious buildings and statues in Tibet.
They've destroyed hundreds of them, including ones dedicated to famous teachers.
The government says they were built illegally, but Tibetan people and others think it's an attempt to get rid of their culture and religion.
People are worried because the government is also stopping them from talking about it or celebrating important religious events.
Now, people around the world are asking the government to stop this and protect Tibetan culture.
Over 300 Buddhist structures were demolished in Drakgo County, Tibet.
The demolition included stupas and statues of spiritual leaders, including Guru Padmasambhava.
Chinese authorities restricted the area and threatened locals to suppress information.
Officials cited illegal construction on government land as justification, according to Tibetan Review.
International organizations and exile leaders are calling for action against the demolitions.
- Who
- Chinese authorities.
- What
- Demolition of over 300 Buddhist structures in Drakgo County, Tibet.
- When
- Demolitions occurred between late May and June 2025.
- Where
- Drakgo County (Luhuo), Tibet.
- Why
- Seen as part of a broader effort to suppress Tibetan religious identity and Sinicize Tibetan Buddhism.
Tibetan and International Perspective
Chinese Government Stance
Demolition Justification
Tibetan and International Perspective
The demolitions are a systematic effort to eradicate Tibetan religious identity and cultural genocide.
Chinese Government Stance
Chinese authorities claim that the structures were built illegally and the demolition is within their legal rights.
- Location
- Drakgo County (Luhuo), Tibet
- Date of Demolition
- Between late May and June 2025
- Structures Demolished
- Over 300 Buddhist structures, including stupas and statues
- Religious Leader Statues Destroyed
- Guru Padmasambhava, Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok
- Government Action
- Restricting access, threatening locals
- Legal Pretext
- Structures built illegally on government land
- International Response
- Calls for diplomatic pressure and sanctions