Nobel Laureate Dalai Lama arrived here
amidst heavy security to attend the world famous Kalchakra Puja and Kagyo
Monlam Chenmo Puja being organised by Buddhist monks in Bodh Gaya for world
peace.
Heavy security arrangements were made at the Jai Prakash
Narayan International Airport and about 150 security personnel from the RAW, IB
and Special Branch were deployed for the safety of the religious leader. Over
20 officials of the RAW were keeping a close watch in and around the Maurya
Hotel where the Dalai Lama is staying.
The Dalai Lama, who would leave for Bodh Gaya tomorrow
morning by road, refused to respond to scribes' queries at the airport.
He is likely to stay in the Maitreya project area two km
away from Bodh Gaya, during the Puja. Kagyo Monlam Chenmo Puja which began on
December 31 would conclude on January 7 while the Kalchakra Puja would begin on
January 11 and end on January 19.
Meanwhile, the 17th Karmapa Ugyen Trinley Dorje,
religious head of the Kagyo cult arrived in Bodh Gaya yesterday to attend the
Kagyo Monlam Chenmo Puja. He was scheduled to begin the Puja but had to change
his programme following threats to his life from some forces.
Security in the Maitreya project area, where the Karmapa
is staying, had been beefed up and about 24 RAW and Intelligence officials
deputed. Metal detectors had been installed at all the 15 entry points to the
Puja spot.,The district administration in Gaya has issued entry passes to the
visitors.