China Destroys 300+ Buddhist Stupas in Tibet's Karze

Chinese authorities demolished over 300 Buddhist stupas and sacred statues in Drakgo County, Karze, Tibet in late May or June 2025, according to a CTA report. The destruction occurred at Lungrab Zang-ri near Janggang Monastery, including statues of Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok and Guru Padmasambhava. Authorities imposed an information blackout, threatening detention for anyone sharing details about the demolitions for "leaking state secrets." Officials justified the destruction claiming the structures violated regulations on "government land." The crackdown intensified following Decree No. 22 requiring monasteries under strict government control. Authorities banned public gatherings in Karze region until July 23, 2025, coinciding with the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations.