Yeshe Khedrup, whose lay name is Tenzin, was a 24-year-old monk from Idem, Lhasa, and a member of Ganden Monastery. He is related to Gyaltsen Pesang and Ngawang Losel.

On 5 March 1992, Yeshe Khedrup was arrested while participating in a pro-independence demonstration in the Barkhor area of Lhasa. Following legal proceedings, he was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment and detained in Drapchi Prison.

While in custody, he was reportedly subjected to physical abuse. On 5 November 1994, he was transferred to Wujin Hospital, located southwest of Drapchi Prison, after having been severely kicked during detention. As a result of the injuries sustained, he developed kidney complications requiring medical treatment.

He was visited by relatives on 14 and 15 November 1994 while receiving medical care.