"He is a revered religious leader and is deeply respected by the people of India. His Holiness is accorded all freedom to carry out his religious activities in India," spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.But India's recent attitude is in stark contrast with his former treatment.In 2016, the Dalai Lama was invited to India's presidential palace for a ceremony honouring Nobel Peace prize winners. The government later allowed him to visit Arunachal Pradesh, disregarding Chinese objections.China reviles the Dalai Lama as a dangerous separatist and his activities in India have always been a source of friction, and a tool with which India can needle China. "Tibet has utility to irritate China, but it is becoming costly for us now. The drills were suspended earlier.

Source: Economic Times March 29, 2018 12:33 UTC