Six Tibetans have been arrested in central Tibet after refusing to take part in official events to mark the 70th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

Tsegyal, Yangphel, Dudul Lhagyay, Norsang, Shewang Namgyal and Sithar Wangyal were arrested in Tarchen Township in Nagchu, central Tibet, on 20 September.

The six defied instructions to wave Chinese flags, sing patriotic songs and praise the ruling Chinese Communist Party in the run up to the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

According to sources, family members of the six have asked local authorities to permit them to hand over food and blankets. The authorities have rejected these requests and issued threats that they will extend the detention period of those arrested members if they continue to insist.

A number of events have been organised across China in preparation for the anniversary, with people in occupied Tibet also required to join in. Tibetan restaurants, homes, monasteries and schools have been required to display large Chinese flags and banners praising the CCP.

Sithar Wangyal, one of the six prisoners

School students, monks and wider public have been instructed to participate while dance and singing competitions in praise of the CCP have been held in Ngaba and Dzoge Counties. Poetry competitions and photo exhibitions have also been held to portray the CCP as democratic liberators of Tibet.

To ensure that the celebrations proceed smoothly, greater numbers of police and military personnel have been deployed across the TAR, with the TAR Party Secretary instructing them to intercept any protests. Security checks, surveillance and search operations have been stepped up.