The middle-way approach, which is being pursued to find a solution to the Tibet issue, has dominated the ongoing special general meeting and divergent views are being expressed by the Tibetans participating in it. The younger generation has expressed its frank opinion, saying that they want independence. They are of the view that since China has rejected the demand of meaningful autonomy, what is the use of pursuing such a policy.

On the other hand, elderly people attending the meeting have unflinching faith in the Dalai Lama and are in favour of continuing the middle-way policy. Sources said some of the Tibetans have said during the meeting that even after eight rounds of talks with China, there was no solution in sight. Some of the delegates taking part in the meeting reportedly favoured reconsideration of the middle-way policy. Most of the participants have held Chinese authorities responsible for the failure of talks. Suggestions have come from various quarters that “the time has come to reconsider the middle-way policy,’’ said sources.

Around 600 Tibetans, who have come here from the world over, have been divided in 15 sub-committees and are holding discussions. In some of these sub-committees, over 60 per cent people are favouring independence.

Poet-activist Tenzin Tsundue, who has born in exile and is taking part in the special meeting, told The Indian Express, “The younger generation does not want any compromise on the stand for independence. They do not want to live under the Chinese government.’’

Similarly, the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), a non-governmental organisation of young Tibetans, is also demanding independence. Its delegates taking part in the meeting have made their stand clear on this issue, it is learnt.

Expressing his views, TYC president Tsewng Rigzin told ENS over phone that “different people have different views but the TYC is for independence’’. The TYC was among the five Tibetan NGOs who had organised the march to Tibet in March this year.