Overview
- MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said China's conduct toward an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh undermines efforts to rebuild mutual trust.
- Pema Wang Thongdok reported being held for over 18 hours at Shanghai airport on November 21 after officials questioned her passport listing Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace.
- India reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country, rejecting Beijing’s position on the state.
- The Chinese Foreign Ministry denied harassment, stated airport actions followed regulations, and restated China’s claim over Arunachal Pradesh.
- Indian officials warned such incidents hinder people-centric initiatives and stressed that peace and tranquillity along the border are prerequisites for broader progress, even as direct flights and other engagements have recently resumed.