A resident of Arunachal Pradesh was detained at Shanghai airport for 18 hours, and in the aftermath of the incident China has recently responded. China has rejected the claims that the female resident was subjected to any kind of pressure or led to torture of any kind. China has also claimed that the procedures were conducted according to the Chinese rules and regulations.
It was on November 21 that Pemma Wangjom Thongdok, who was travelling from London to Japan, landed at Shanghai airport for transit. During this time she was retained during immigration. She alleged that Chinese authorities detained her for approximately 18 hours because she was from Arunachal Pradesh.
Reacting to the incident, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that Pemma Wangjom Thongdok was not harassed in any manner. She added that the entire process was completely in accordance with Chinese law and regulations.
China’s claims that Arunachal Pradesh is its part
Responding to questions on the incident, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that “no necessary action, detention or harassment was carried out,” as Thongdok has alleged. She added that “the airline provided the passenger with a place to rest, food and water during the process.” Mao said, “We learned that China’s border inspection authorities conducted the entire process in accordance with laws and regulations and fully protected the legitimate rights and interests of the individual concerned.”
She also reiterated Beijing’s territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, which China calls Zangnan or South Tibet. She said, “Zangnan is Chinese territory. China has never recognized the so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally created by India.”
India’s past dispute with China
India has had a long and strong protest with China and issued official demarches in both Beijing and Delhi. India has categorically stated several times that “Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India and its residents are fully entitled to hold valid Indian passports and travel internationally.”
The Indian Consulate in Shanghai immediately intervened, providing assistance and helping the woman to leave the airport to continue her travel.
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