A recent incident at Shanghai Pudong Airport, where an Indian national alleged mistreatment by immigration officials, has prompted a response from China. Prema Wangjom Thongdok, from Arunachal Pradesh, claimed she was questioned about her Indian citizenship and told that the region is Chinese territory. China has now refuted these allegations, asserting that the individual’s rights were fully protected and no coercive measures were implemented. India has strongly protested the incident, lodging a formal demarche with Chinese authorities in both New Delhi and Beijing. Thongdok described an “eighteen-hour ordeal” where officials allegedly questioned her passport’s validity and her Indian nationality. She recounted being singled out, with officials stating, “Arunachal is not part of India” and suggesting she should seek a Chinese passport. Despite her experience, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated Beijing’s long-standing position that “Zangnan is China’s territory” and that China does not recognize “Arunachal Pradesh.” She maintained that border inspection authorities acted lawfully and impartially, ensuring the traveler’s rights were upheld. India, however, emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India and that its citizens are entitled to travel with valid Indian passports, suggesting the Chinese actions may contravene international aviation conventions. The incident occurred amidst ongoing diplomatic engagements between the two nations.
