Phuntsok Choesang, born in 1974 and originally from Meldro Gongkar, became politically active in 1989, posting pro-independence leaflets advocating Tibet’s independence. In 1990 and 1991, he distributed leaflets opposing mining activities in Meldro. In 1992, he and a friend, Gyatso, were arrested and detained at Meldro Prison.

During detention, he was subjected to forced labour and provided with insufficient food, which resulted in chronic headaches, the relapse of a pre-existing illness, and partial paralysis on the left side of his body. Prior to his release, he was coerced into signing multiple agreements, including pledges not to engage in Tibetan independence activities or oppose the Chinese government, in order to obtain release for medical treatment.

After recovering, he joined Gaden Monastery in June 1993. In 1997, amid increasing intimidation and assimilation policies imposed by the Government Work Department, he escaped into exile.