Sonam Topgyal, born in 1944 in Markham, worked as a farmer and nomad prior to his arrest by the Chinese authorities. In October 1967, during the period of intense political repression in Tibet, he was detained and accused of engaging in “counter-revolutionary” activities.

Following his arrest, Sonam Topgyal was subjected to repeated interrogation, severe torture, and harsh prison conditions. He reportedly suffered from malnourishment during his detention, which further deteriorated his physical condition. After being convicted on political charges, he was sentenced to twelve years of imprisonment. His detention formed part of the broader crackdown against Tibetans perceived to oppose Chinese rule in Tibet.

Upon completion of his sentence, he was eventually released from prison. After enduring years of imprisonment and abuse, Sonam Topgyal escaped into exile and reached India on 1 February 1989.