India Asserts Arunachal Pradesh is Integral and Inalienable Part of the Country Amidst China’s Claims

India has reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the country following the detention of an Indian national by Chinese officials. The External Affairs Ministry strongly rejected China's claims over the region.

India has firmly rejected China's explanation regarding the detention of an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh at Shanghai airport. The incident involved Pema Wang Thongdok, who claimed she was held for 18 hours on November 21. Chinese officials allegedly refused to acknowledge her Indian passport due to her birthplace being Arunachal Pradesh.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry dismissed these allegations, asserting that their actions adhered to regulations. They also reiterated their claim over Arunachal Pradesh. "We have seen statements made by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the arbitrary detention of an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh, who was holding a valid passport and was transiting through Shanghai International Airport on her onward travel to Japan," said External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

India's Firm Stance on Arunachal Pradesh

Jaiswal emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, a fact that remains unchanged despite China's claims. "Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India, and this is a self-evident fact. No amount of denial by the Chinese side is going to change this indisputable reality," he stated.

The Indian government has strongly protested against the incident with China. A formal diplomatic protest, known as a demarche, was lodged both in Beijing and Delhi on the day of the incident, according to government sources.

Violation of International Conventions

Jaiswal highlighted that China's actions violated several international air travel conventions. He noted that Chinese authorities have not provided a satisfactory explanation for their conduct. Furthermore, these actions contradict China's own regulations allowing visa-free transit for up to 24 hours for nationals from all countries.

Thongdok shared her experience on social media, stating that Chinese immigration officials deemed her passport invalid because her birthplace is Arunachal Pradesh. "They called my Indian passport invalid as my birthplace is Arunachal Pradesh which they claimed is Chinese territory," she said.

India's response underscores its unwavering position on Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of the nation. The incident has further strained relations between India and China, highlighting ongoing tensions over territorial claims.

With inputs from PTI