By Tenzin Chokyi

DHARAMSALA, 19 Oct: The 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has confirmed that he plans to visit Sikkim “very soon,” accepting a renewed invitation extended directly by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang during a recent high-level meeting.

The spiritual leader’s assurance marks a major milestone in the Himalayan state’s long-standing efforts to facilitate his return. According to an official statement released by SKM Darpan, the media outlet of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha party, Chief Minister Tamang and Ecclesiastical Affairs Minister Sonam Lama briefed the Karmapa on the physical and logistical preparations underway for his visit during a rare audience held abroad, at a location that has not been disclosed.

Chief Minister Tamang informed the Karmapa that the construction of a dedicated accommodation facility at Goenchen Phodong, w...