Tibetans in Bylakuppe: Political and LegalStatus and Settlement Experiences

This paper discusses the laws and regulations governing refugees in India in general and the Tibetan refugees in particular. In this context, it describes the actual practices in two Tibetan settlements in Karnataka. The paper highlights the ways in which Tibetans have Negotiated the restrictions they face as refugees in India and created enabling conditions in exile. The discussion reveals the shortcomings of the current protection framework and the necessity of a national legislation on refugees.