Tinley Tsultrim, aged 27 and originally from Tsangshang, was among the monks arrested during the November 1996 crackdown at Reting Monastery. Chinese authorities linked him to political resistance activities carried out by monks opposing the re-education campaign and restrictions imposed on religious practices.

Following his arrest on 22 November 1996, he was detained at Gutsa Detention Centre, where he underwent interrogation before sentencing. He was later sentenced to six years in prison and transferred to Drapchi Prison to serve his term.