http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Apr 25, 2013,

Tibetans protest for Panchen Lama's release from China
By S Gopal Puri

Dharamshala Observing the 24th birthday of 11th Panchen Lama, the highest ranking lama in the Buddhist lineage who has been missing for the past 18 years, Tibetan activists captivated the hill town with mass vigils.

Tourists, commuters and passersby were asked to call the Chinese embassy and inquire about the whereabouts of Panchen Lama. They demanded release of 11th Panchen Lama "Gedhun Choekyi Nyima". Hundreds of Tibetans gathered at the main square of McLeodganj wearing Panchen Lama's face masks. "We urge the Chinese government to release Panchen Lama so that he is reunited with thousands of followers who have been waiting for his release for the past 18 years" said Tashi Dolma, president of Tibetan Women's Association.

"It was in March 2010 when we heard about Panchen Lama from the Chinese government. Tibet's China-appointed governor had told reporters that Panchen Lama and his family were living a good like ordinary citizens in Tibet," said Tashi Lamsang, general secretary of Regional Tibetan Youth Congress.

Panchen Lama is one of the most important religious leaders in Tibet. The 10th Panchen Lama passed away mysteriously in 1989. His reincarnation, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, recognized at the age of 6 in 1995, was taken into custody by the Chinese government along with his family.

According to information from former president of Gu-Chu-Sum movement of Tibet, Lama's parents are currently placed under house arrest in their hometown and not allowed to meet anyone. Police officers are reportedly escorting and monitoring their movements.