South African opposition party calls on India to arrest Dalai Lama for child abuse

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG (AA) - A South African opposition party urged India on Tuesday to arrest and prosecute the Dalai Lama for child abuse.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, the third largest in parliament, said the Indian government must not spare any religious leader who indulges in abusive acts.

The 87-year-old spiritual leader of Tibet has come under attack after a video emerged showing him kissing a child on the lips and then asking him to suck his tongue during an event in India.

The office of the Dalai Lama issued a statement saying he has apologized to the boy and his family “as well as his many friends around the world for the damage his words have caused,” saying he regrets the incident.

His office also defended him, saying he often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way, even in public and before cameras.

EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo said “the lame apology issued today from the Dala Lama Office must be rejected with condemnation. Child abuse cannot be apologized away.”

He said the supposed apology failed to state that his acts were grossly abusive.

“Religious leaders are expected to be protectors, not abusers of the most vulnerable in society. Child abuse is rampant worldwide. Children are not safe in their homes, schools, public spaces and with religious leaders,” the statement said.

The party urged Indian authorities to send a stern warning to all those who dare to harm children that they will be prosecuted harshly regardless of their status.