In July 1997, seven monks from Serwa Monastery—including Lobsang Topchen, Sherab Tsultrim, Tashi Phuntsok, Ngawang Choephel, Dawa Dorje, and Lobsang Dechen—along with one layperson, Rigzin, a whitewasher by profession, were arrested in Pashoe County during a brief fifteen-minute demonstration advocating Tibetan independence, coinciding with the handover of Hong Kong. Among the group, Lobsang Topchen played a prominent role in organizing and participating in the demonstration, reflecting his continued commitment to peaceful political expression despite the risks.

After thirteen days in local detention, all were transferred to Chamdo Detention Centre. Later in 1997, the Chamdo Intermediate People’s Court sentenced Rigzin to eight years, Rigzin Choephel and Sherab Tsultrim to six years each, and the remaining monks—including Lobsang Topchen—to four years’ imprisonment. All were subsequently transferred to Drapchi Prison to serve their sentences.