BOMDILA: Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, today responded to China's objection to his Arunachal Pardesh visit saying New Delhi has never used him against Beijing.
China has raised objection to the Dalai Lama's trip to Arunachal Pradesh saying it will cause 'serious damage' to bilateral ties. However, Dalai Lama rejected China's worry but added that some Chinese politicians consider him as a demon.
"Among the Chinese, many love India but there are many narrow minded politicians. They consider me as a demon. I don't think I am a demon. No problem...," he told reporters in Bomdila.
"I am a messenger of ancient Indian thoughts and values. I certainly thank the Indian government for their support," Dalai Lama said.
This is Dalai Lama's sixth visit to Arunachal Pradesh since 1983. His last trip came in 2009.
India has rejected China's objection saying no 'artificial controversy' should be created around the visit and asked Beijing not to interfere in its internal affairs.
The external affairs ministry also asserted that the government has clearly stated on several occasions that the Dalai Lama is a revered religious leader, who is deeply respected by the Indian people.
"No additional colour should be ascribed to his religious and spiritual activities and visits to various states of India," the ministry said in a release.
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