Ngawang Zeden

POLITICAL PRISONER
Does it have an image?
No
Gender
Female
Occupation at Detention
Religious
Vulnerable Group at Detention
  • Religious
Date of arrest
15/02/1995
Detention Centre/Prison
Drapchi Prison
Description of event

Ngawang Zeden, also known by her lay name Nyichung, was a nun from Parto Nunnery who became actively involved in the Tibetan freedom movement. She was arrested on 15 February 1995 after taking part in a peaceful demonstration with fellow nun Lobsang Wangmo. Chinese authorities sentenced her to five years in prison, and she was transferred to Drapchi Prison to serve her term.

Details of Violations Faced in Detention

While imprisoned, Ngawang Zeden participated in peaceful protests inside Drapchi Prison on 1 and 4 May 1998. During the crackdown that followed, prison guards reportedly opened fire on inmates, resulting in the deaths of 11 prisoners. Ngawang Zeden was critically injured in the violence and was subsequently hospitalized at an army hospital near Sera Monastery, where her condition remains critical.

Types of Human Rights Violations
  • Civil and Political Rights Violations: Right to Freedom of Expression and Opinion
  • Civil and Political Rights Violations: Right to Liberty and security of person
Length of Sentence
5 years
Prison Location
Consequences of Detention After Release

Her persecution has also deeply affected her family. Her sister, likewise a political prisoner, served a three-year sentence for participating in a 1995 protest, and their mother has faced continued harassment as a result of her daughters’ political activities.

Type of Sources
  • Primary: TCHRD field sources
Torture
Torture
Published
Published