You Can't Even Reincarnate Without a Permit

The Chinese authorities may have set a new standard in government regulation:

Tibet’s living Buddhas have been banned from reincarnation without permission from China’s atheist leaders. The ban is included in new rules intended to assert Beijing’s authority over Tibet’s restive and deeply Buddhist people.

“The so-called reincarnated living Buddha without government approval is illegal and invalid,” according to the order, which comes into effect on September 1.

The 14-part regulation issued by the State Administration for Religious Affairs is aimed at limiting the influence of Tibet’s exiled god-king, the Dalai Lama, and at preventing the re-incarnation of the 72-year-old monk without approval from Beijing.

"What's the problem, officer?"

"May I see your identification, proof of insurance, and reincarnation permit?"

"What did I do wrong?"

"You're suspected of reincarnating without a permit. Didn't you used to be horse?"