China to compensate civilians killed in Tibet demonstrations
Protests last week for greater freedom in Tibet were violently suppressed as they spread to towns in China
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Saturday, 29, Mar 2008 11:13
The government of China has announced that it will provide compensation to the families of those killed in anti-government protests last week.
A statement on the official Xinhua news agency said that 18 families would receive $28,500 (£14,200) after they suffered fatal injuries during demonstrations against Chinese rule in Tibet, which started in Tibet's capital Lhasa and spread to other areas.
The announcement also stated that those injured would receive free medical care and that the government would help citizens rebuild shops and property damaged during the unrest.
Previously Beijing has said that 22 people had lost their lives in the riots while Tibetan groups have claimed over a hundred deaths. No details have been released about whether relatives of the four remaining people – a policemen and three protestors Chinese authorities say were resisting arrest – will also receive compensation.
Foreign diplomats left the country today after paying a visit to the Tibetan capital. A previous visit to protest-hit areas by foreign journalists was disrupted by 30 monks who shouted slogans calling for greater freedom in the area.
China has accused Dalai Lama of orchestrating the violence which came on the anniversary of an uprising against Chinese rule and months before the country prepares to host the Olympics.
World leaders including US president George Bush have urged the country to enter into talks with the exiled spiritual leader in order to put an end to the violence in the area.