Arunachal visa row: BJP asks Govt to take up issue with China

New Delhi, Oct 11: Against the backdrop of two archers from

being issued stapled visas by

,

on Friday urged the government to take up the issue with Beijing and also requested President Pranab Mukherjee to initiate appropriate steps in this regard.

In a letter to Mukherjee, BJP Arunachal Pradesh chief Tai Tagak expressed serious concern over China issuing stapled visas to people from his state since 2011.

This has denied Arunachalees the opportunity to attend any important international events in China. "The worst affected are the upcoming young sportspersons, who- for no fault of theirs- are discriminated.

This is a gross discouragement to our young talents," he said. Two archers from Arunachal Pradesh- Mihu Maselo and Yumi Sorang- who were part of the 24-member squad were given stapled visas to participate in Youth World Archery Championship at Wuxi in China.

China issues stapled visas to people from Arunachal since 2011.

"Despite repeated representations to the government and the assurance of (then) Chinese Primier Wen Jiabao to look into the stapled visa issue, the harassment meted out is a clear sign that the Centre has not done enough to get justice for the Arunachalees. At the same time there is increased activity and intrusion by the Chinese army," Tagak said.

He said this reflects lack of sensitivity and seriousness on the part of the government in resolving the matter. He warned that this situation may strengthen Chinese intentions and their claims over the state.

"Therefore, sir, the state BJP urges the Government of India to take up the issue with its Chinese counterpart to end this visa imbroglio once and for all and deliver justice to the people of Arunachal Pradesh," Tagak said, adding that the party anticipates prompt initiation from Mukherjee on the issue.

PTI