Monk survives self-immolation but loses both legs
A Tibetan monk who self-immolated in protest against the Chinese government in February last year has survived but had both of his legs amputated, according to information received by TCHRD.
Sonam Rabyang, 42, a monk from Lab Monastery set his body on fire on 8 February 2012 at Triwang (Ch: Chen wen) town, capital of Tridu (Ch: Chenduo) County in Yulshul (Ch: Yushu) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai Province.
A relative of Sonam Rabyang, who lives in India, told TCHRD that Sonam Rabyang is recovering at his home in Yuthung Village of Lab Township in Tridu County. The relative who wishes to remain anonymous said, “I first heard that he was taken to an army hospital in the provincial capital of Xining. After about three months, I again heard that both his legs were amputated at the hospital.”
Sonam Rabyang is now being cared for by his family members under strict surveillance and restriction, according to the relative. He is not allowed to communicate through his phone without the knowledge of the local authorities.
