15 April 2008
Geshe Sonam Phuntsok passes away in Kardze
(TCHRD) Geshe Sonam Phuntsok, a former political prisoner who spent five years in prison for his religious activities and for conducting a long life prayer ceremony for the Dalai Lama in October 1999, passed away on 05 April 2008 in Kardze after a prolonged battle with multiple illnesses. Geshe Sonam Phuntsok, popularly known as Kardze Geshe, was in poor health for the long period of time since his release from Chuandong no. 3 Prison in Tazhu county in October 2004. He was a hugely popular religious figure particularly in Kardze. Since his release in October 2004, he was put under virtual house arrest and, according to TCHRD, had to seek official permission even for medical treatment. His activities were under constant surveillance by the authorities.