INDEPENDENCE

The word  "realistic" whenever introduced into any discussion on Tibetan politics, never fails to set my teeth on edge. It invariably signals the opening of the argument that if the Tibetans compromised on the question of  independence ("Rangzen"), and accepted some form of autonomous status within China, then the Chinese authorities would reciprocate with concessions. Though not as preferable as independence, this would make life inside Tibet more tolerable and hence ensure the survival of the Tibetan people. On the face of it, a reasonable  argument. So what's the catch? Well, for one the Chinese have never evinced any desire to discuss a compromise solution - not even the most pathetically watered down one proffered by Dharamsala, the site of the Tibetan Government-in-exile.

(Jamyang Norbu  from the book "TIBET -THE ISSUE IS INDEPENDENCE")