NAGPUR: Exiled Tibetan leader, Dalai Lamaraised the banner for the development of scheduled castes. Terming the condition of the people of lower castes and dowry system a matter of grave concern, the Buddhist spiritual guru said that he will be holding a seminar in Delhi on these issues. He claimed that he has already got in touch with top leaders including the prime minister and they have confirmed their participation in the deliberations.He was addressing a public meet at Naglok monastery in the city. “Though the Indian constitution provides for the development of the schedule castes, mere words are not enough. Much more needs to be done so as to bring them to the mainstream and change the social system,” he said.Calling for keeping a secular order in the world, he praised the Indian culture saying it has accommodated all the religions. “Even the handful of Parsees can freely practice their religion. Also some among them like Field Marshall Sam Manekshaw and Ratan Tata rose to great levels in this country.”However, he refused to comment on Narendra Modi. “I have been the longest guest of the Indian government so it is better to keep mum (he gestured).” The Tibetan leader, confirmed of having plans to visit the RSS headquarters. “We are friends and shall remain so, as the organization has been supporting the Tibetan cause since the beginning. I have received a message that they want me to visit the RSS office, so I will. Even Ashok Singhal of Vishwa Hindu Parishad is my old friend,” he said.

On the Tibetan issue, he expressed hope for a solution under the new President Xi Jinpin, stressing that they do not want separation from the mainland China. The concept of sovereignty has changed over the years. In early 19{+t}{+h} century the European countries were fighting among each other and have now formed a union, he said.

“Even Tibet needs to remain a part of People’s Republic of China for economic growth, but it should also have autonomy to protect its culture and environment,” said the Dalai.

“The issue can only be resolved only through dialogue. Even in China there are certain leaders who are pressing for democracy. There is some hope in sight with the new President, who seems to understand the issues,” he said.

The spiritual leader also made comments on the issue of corruption. He termed corruption as the planet’s cancer. Even India which has been a very religious country has this problem. In these times of modern technology, people have become self centred and moral consciousness is fading. “Either you follow a righteous path or just run after money,” he said.

He cited one of his friends, a Cuban refugee in US, who prayed that Fidel Castro be taken to heaven. So can people pray for the corrupt so that they reach the heaven at the earliest, he said.