CHINA-TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION: LIVING BUDDHAS
On January 18, 2016, China published its first list of 'verified' Living Buddhas on the official website of the State Administration for Religious Affairs, www.sara.gov.cn, and www.tibet.cn. ostensibly to prevent swindling by imposters in the name of religion. Jian Jianyong, deputy head of the State Administration of Religious Affairs, said the online database should help reduce the ability of fake Buddhas to take advantage of people. (Comment: Zhu Weiqun, presently a Vice Chairman of the CPPCC, had first disclosed some months ago that such a list was under preparation.)
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