Panchen Lama: End of serfdom benefits all

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-27-2009 12:58

A Tibetan Buddhist leader says democratic reform in Tibet 50 years ago is in the fundamental interests of all people in the region. Panchen Lama, Gyaincain Norbu, says the freeing of one million serfs five decades ago is in keeping with Buddhist beliefs.

Panchen Lama, Gyaincain Norbu, says the freeing of one  million serfs five decades ago is in keeping with  Buddhist beliefs.(File Photo)

The Panchen Lama is a descendant of serfs. He talked about Saturday's "Serfs Emancipation Day" and the changes in Tibetans' lives.

The 11th Panchen Lama Gyaincain Norbu said, "Serfs had neither human rights nor freedom. The estate owners treated them as horses. They even exchanged serfs as gifts. Serfs lived a very miserable life."

Old Tibet was a feudal society in which politics were combined with religion.

The estate owners exploited and suppressed farmers.

Gyaincain Norbu says that ran against Buddhist doctrine.

Gyaincain Norbu also said, "Estate owners and some aristocrats started out armed rebellions in their own interests. With the support of patriots and the public in Tibet, the Chinese Peopleis Liberation Army quickly put down the rebellion. This fits the basic interests of people in Tibet, and their wish for a happy life."