India has been taking an "over-cautious" view on Tibet [Images], the Dalai Lama [Images] today said while seeking New Delhi's [Images] help to resolve the vexed issue.

"In 1959-60, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru took personal interest in Tibet.... Of late New Delhi's view about Tibetan issue has been over-cautious," the 73-year-old spiritual leader told reporters in New Delhi.

Emphasising the strong bond between India and the Tibetans, the Dalai Lama sought New Delhi's help for resolving the Tibet issue lingering for nearly 50 years.

The Tibetan monk though was non-committal on future talks with the Chinese authorities said "dialogue with Chinese people would continue".

China, which has held eight rounds of fruitless talks with the Dalai Lama's envoys, accuses him of trying to split the country in the guise of seeking "genuine autonomy" for

Tibet in its frequent vitriolic attacks on the Tibetan leader.

In what may irk Beijing [Images] further, the Dalai Lama voiced support for the democratic movements in China.

"I agree with Chinese democratic movement. If any democratic organisation there calls me I will come for meeting," he said while replying to questions.

The Dalai Lama accused Chinese authorities of spreading "rumours" about him.

"Chinese say Dalai Lama is suffering from Hepatitis B. Earlier they used to say I am suffering from cancer and will die soon. They are free to come and check," he said.

"In the next 20 years, if we are not careful in our actions and planning, then there is great danger to the Tibetan community," he said later addressing the exiles who had gathered for a crucial conclave which said that Tibetans may have to rethink his "middle way" approach and force to demand full independence if there is no result.

'Next Dalai Lama can be a woman'

The Tibetan monk said he was open to the idea of "reincarnation" of the Dalai Lama as a woman. "Females have greater potential and can take more responsibility. Hence they have all the qualification to become the next Dalai Lama," he said.

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