Tibetan Exiles in Delhi Shave Heads in Protest Against China's Ethnic Unity Law

Hundreds of Tibetan exiles gathered in New Delhi on Thursday to protest against China's new ethnic unity and progress law, which they say erodes the identity and rights of Tibetans and other minorities. The demonstrators shaved their heads as a symbolic act of defiance, while chanting slogans such as "Tibet belongs to Tibetans" and "Shame on Xi Jinping."

The protest comes in response to legislation that prohibits acts deemed to incite division among China's 56 ethnic groups. The law also requires schools, families, and institutions to promote patriotism and a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation. Critics argue that it provides a legal basis for Beijing to prosecute individuals or organizations outside China whose actions are seen as harming "ethnic unity."

One protester, Sonam Wongden, said, "This unity law breaks the identity of what Tibetan people stand for and we are rebelling against that." He also expressed sadness over recent self-immolations, saying that such acts occur because Tibetans inside Tibet are unable to travel, contact others, or take meaningful action.

During the protest, prayers were held for Lobsang Palden, also known as Lobga Rangzen, a Tibetan exile who died after setting himself on fire outside the United Nations headquarters in New York on July 2. Placards read "170+ Tibetans have set themselves on fire, how many more lives? Free Tibet."

The Chinese government maintains that its policies aim to bring development to ethnic minority regions. However, Tibetan activists see the new law as a form of forced assimilation and extended control over their culture and identity.