A video of the Tibetan spiritual leader caressing a young boy on the lips and then requesting him to “suck his tongue” placed the Dalai Lama at the center of a controversy. The internet users have reacted angrily to the video, which has gone viral on social media platforms.

The video depicts the Dalai Lama kissing the infant on the lips as the child leans in to give homage. A few seconds later, the Tibetan spiritual leader is seen indicating to his mouth and protruding his tongue. In the video, the Dalai Lama can be heard asking the young child, “Can you lick my tongue?”

The Dalai Lama kisses a child and asks him to “suck his tongue” in a viral video. The Tibetan spiritual leader’s video caused controversy.

Dalai Lama's video instructing the little child to "suck his tongue" ignites uproar 2023 2

Netizens have called the spiritual leader’s behavior “disgusting” and “creepy” in response to the video.

“Absolutely stunned by this display by the Dalai Lama. He has previously been required to repent for his discriminatory remarks. “To say ‘Now suck my tongue’ to a young child is repulsive,” a Twitter user wrote.

Another user questioned, “What am I witnessing? Is the Dalai Lama present? Should be apprehended for pedophilia. Disgusting.”

“This behavior by the Dalai Lama in broad public view is reprehensible.” It constitutes sexual assault and molestation. No infant should be placed in such a predicament. I hope the authorities are aware. A case must be filed under POCSO,” tweeted a second social media user.

This is not the first time the Dalai Lama has received criticism from the public. A few years ago, the Dalai Lama’s remark that his female successor would have to be “attractive” stirred controversy.

The spiritual authority of Tibet later issued an apologetic for his remark.