ITANAGAR, 14 Jul: Members of the Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)-Itanagar chapter organised a candlelight vigil at the Thuptan Gatsal-ling monastery here on Monday to pay tribute to Tibetan independence activist Pawo Lobga Rangzen.

The programme was held in memory of Rangzen, who, according to the organisation, self-immolated in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York on 2 July, coinciding with the implementation of China’s ‘Ethnic Unity Law’.

The SFT alleged that the law empowers the Chinese state to dismantle and forcibly assimilate minority communities under the rule of the Chinese Communist Party.

The candlelight vigil, attended by members of the SFT Itanagar chapter and supporters, was organised in remembrance of Rangzen’s sacrifice and was inspired by what the organisation described as his final call for unity and collective action.

Participants lit candles and observed a solemn tribute while reflecting on the sacrifices made by Tibetan martyrs in their struggle for freedom.

Addressing the gathering, members reaffirmed their commitment to advocating the Tibetan cause and called for continued solidarity with the Tibetan people.

The programme also served as an appeal to the international community and world leaders to support efforts towards a peaceful, just and harmonious resolution to the Tibetan issue.

The event concluded with prayers and a message of peace, with participants expressing hope for greater global awareness and support for the aspirations of the Tibetan people.