Paljor Norbu's family printing business in Barkhor had produced Buddhist texts for monasteries for many years, and Paljor's family are well known as master printers who employed dozens of workers. His shop produced various cultural and religious materials which helped keep Tibetan culture and traditions alive. The shop was closed down following his arrest, with the printing blocks taken by the Public Security Bureau and a sign placed on the door telling empoyees they should not return. There has been speculation that he was accused of printing materials used in the spring protests in 2008.

The judicial authorities did not inform Paljor's family about his whereabouts, which remains unknown, and his age makes relatives even more worried about his treatment and condition. A source said that "The family wants to know what prison he is in because it is getting cold, he is very old, and they want to get warm clothes and blankets to him."