Arunachal, China (Credit: OpenAI)
New Delhi: A UK-based Indian citizen, Prema Wangjom Thongdok, faced an ordeal during a scheduled three-hour layover at Shanghai airport on November 21. Chinese immigration officers allegedly refused to accept her passport, claiming it was “invalid” because her birthplace was listed as Arunachal Pradesh.
They reportedly questioned her nationality and interrupted her onward journey to Japan. The incident caused emotional distress and drew immediate criticism from Indian authorities. Prema later spoke on social media urging unity, saying, “We are one nation.” She thanked supporters and rejected trolling based on identity or region.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning denied any wrongdoing, stating the individual was neither detained nor harassed. According to Mao, immigration officials acted strictly under Chinese laws and ensured the traveler’s rights were protected. She claimed that “Zangnan,” referring to Arunachal Pradesh using a Chinese term, belongs to China and not India. She also mentioned that China never acknowledged Arunachal Pradesh as part of India. However, her statement contradicted India’s official position and further aggravated the diplomatic tension. China has recently renamed multiple locations in the region to strengthen its territorial claim.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal strongly condemned the incident during the weekly press briefing on Wednesday. He reiterated that “Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India.” He added that such actions do not help relations between the two countries and China should know this clearly. Jaiswal emphasized that the ground reality will not change because of Chinese statements or behavior. He urged Beijing to avoid provocative actions that undermine mutual trust. His remarks echoed India’s long-standing position on territorial sovereignty.
Yes, India has taken up the issue strongly with Chinese authorities. Jaiswal confirmed that New Delhi pointed out how immigration actions violated conventions governing international air travel. He also said she was entitled to visa-free transit for 24 hours under existing Chinese regulations. Despite these rules, officials allegedly questioned her documentation based solely on her origin. India asked China to explain why the travel norms were not followed. As of now, there has been no satisfactory response from the Chinese side.
In recent years, China has repeatedly attempted to challenge India’s sovereignty by renaming towns and regions in Arunachal Pradesh. These actions are seen as part of Beijing’s broader geopolitical strategy. India has consistently rejected them, calling such attempts baseless. China’s treatment of the traveler appears to reflect this ongoing dispute. Diplomatic experts say the airport incident is more than an immigration error; it symbolizes deeper tensions. Analysts believe such cases could create long-term diplomatic friction.
Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu expressed deep shock over the incident. He called the experience “racial mockery” and “appalling,” demanding accountability. Social media users expressed anger and solidarity with the woman. Many called for stronger diplomatic action. Opposition leaders demanded an explanation from China as well as assurance from the central government. The situation has sparked a conversation on identity, national pride and border politics. Several regional groups have condemned China’s statements publicly.
India is expected to continue pressing China diplomatically while ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad. Experts believe New Delhi will raise the matter further at official platforms if necessary. China may face pressure to prevent such incidents in future and adhere to air travel norms. While disputes over Arunachal Pradesh remain unresolved, India maintains its position firmly. The episode highlights the sensitivity surrounding border regions. For now, both countries watch closely how this controversy influences bilateral engagement.
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