Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, April 13: Tibetan political prisoner Yeshe Sangpo has been released after serving an 18-year prison sentence imposed by Chinese authorities, according to a report by the Dharamshala-based Tibetan news outlet Tibet Times.
The 58-year-old, a native of Sershul County in Kardze (Ganzi) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, was reportedly freed on March 25 upon completing his full term. However, sources cited by Tibet Times indicate that his physical condition has severely deteriorated following nearly two decades of incarceration, raising grave concerns about his health.
Yeshe Sangpo was initially detained in 2007 after participating in a protest in Sershul County, advocating for the protection of Tibetan linguistic rights and the preservation of Tibetan language and culture. The demonstration, led by Yeshe Sangpo along with his brother Lobsang and other local Tibetans, called for greater recognition and safeguarding of Tibetan identity.
According to sources, the situation escalated when Chinese police intervened and allegedly assaulted demonstrators, triggering clashes between the protesters and authorities. During the confrontation, Yeshe Sangpo was accused of involvement in the death of a police officer. He was subsequently held in detention for several months before formal charges were brought against him.
In May 2008, local authorities sentenced him to 18 years in prison. He was then transferred to a detention facility in Ra Nga County, where he remained incarcerated until his recent release.
Despite regaining his freedom, sources describe his current condition as “extremely poor,” suggesting that the prolonged period of imprisonment has exacted a heavy toll on his physical well-being.
