RS. 500 CURRENCY NOTE bearing stamp "Free Tibet, Free China" recovered in Dharamsala

Dharamsala, February 1, 2013: Yeshi Wangmo of the Department of Information and International Affair, Government of Tibet-in-exile at Dharamsala said on Friday, “It has to been brought to our notice that  500-ruppee note bearing "Free Tibet, Free China" are reportedly in circulation in McLeodganj, Dharamsala. It could be work of certain mischievous elements. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) condemns it and would like to appeal to all to remain vigilant against such mischief.”

She said that this incident is unfortunate as it comes at a time when Tibetans from India, Nepal and Bhutan are gathered in New Delhi, to express their solidarity with Tibetans in Tibet.

Earlier, Himachal police have marked an inquiry after an Indian currency note of Rs 500 denomination bearing "Free Tibet" slogan was recovered in McLeodganj town of Dharamshala, on Thursday night. Police have issued a warning against "misuse of currency notes" and have decided to raise the matter with officials of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

"We are taking up the matter with the Tibetan government. Using Indian currency against any particular country in any freedom struggle is a serious offence. We are investigating the matter," said Balbir Thakur, district superintendent of police, Kangra.

The "Free Tibet" slogan has been stamped on the note and not imprinted.

According to Police this offence was also punishable under section 489 of IPC for such practices if a case gets registered.

No case has been registered so far.