Tensions between India and China have escalated following two separate incidents. One involves a statement from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterating China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh, and the other concerns the alleged mistreatment of an Indian citizen at Shanghai Pudong Airport.
Mao Ning, during a press briefing in Beijing, asserted that "Zangnan is China's territory," and that China has never acknowledged Arunachal Pradesh, referring to it as illegally established by India. Zangnan is the Chinese name for Arunachal Pradesh. This statement reaffirms Beijing's long-held position on the disputed territory, a claim strongly rejected by India.
The assertion followed reports of an incident at Shanghai Pudong Airport involving Pema Wangjom Thongdok, an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh. Thongdok, who resides in the UK, was travelling from London to Japan on November 21 when she was allegedly detained and mistreated during a transit in Shanghai. She claims that immigration officials declared her Indian passport invalid because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her place of birth, allegedly stating that Arunachal Pradesh is part of China. Thongdok recounted being held for hours, facing mockery, and being advised to apply for a Chinese passport. She was eventually able to contact the Indian Consulate, who assisted her in boarding a late-night flight.
China has denied the allegations of harassment and mistreatment. Mao Ning stated that Chinese border inspection authorities conducted routine checks in accordance with laws and regulations, and that Thongdok's lawful rights and interests were fully protected. She added that no compulsory measures were taken against her, and the airline provided her with resting facilities and meals.
India has strongly objected to both the territorial claim and the alleged mistreatment of its citizen. The Indian government lodged a formal protest with Beijing, emphasizing that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, and its residents are entitled to travel on Indian passports without restriction. Officials stated that the actions of Chinese authorities violated international civil aviation conventions and created unnecessary obstacles to stabilising India-China ties.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed shock and condemnation over the incident, calling it unacceptable and deeply disturbing. He described the alleged humiliation and racial mockery as appalling and a violation of international norms. Khandu affirmed that Arunachal Pradesh is and will always be an integral part of India and that any insinuation otherwise is baseless and offensive.
The incident has triggered widespread concern, with people and civil society organizations demanding respect for the rights and dignity of Indian citizens abroad. The Indian Consulate in Shanghai intervened, providing assistance to Thongdok until her departure.
