China on Tuesday refuted accusations that an Indian woman from Arunachal Pradesh was harassed during a transit stop at Shanghai airport, while again asserting its claim over the state, which it refers to as Zangnan.
The woman, Pema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based Indian national, was travelling from London to Japan on November 21 when her three-hour layover extended to 18 hours. She said Chinese immigration officials declared her passport “invalid” because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning denied any harassment, saying Thongdok “was not subjected to compulsory measures, detainment or harassment” and that border staff acted “in accordance with laws and regulations.” Mao added that food, water and resting space had been provided by the airline.
Mao also reiterated China’s territorial position, saying Beijing does not recognise Arunachal Pradesh and regards the region as part of its territory.
India responded firmly, saying it had lodged a strong protest with China. Government sources called Beijing’s reasoning “ludicrous,” emphasising that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India and its residents are fully entitled to hold Indian passports. Officials said China’s actions violated international civil aviation norms under the Chicago and Montreal Conventions and created avoidable complications in bilateral engagement.
New Delhi issued a demarche both in Beijing and at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi, while the Indian Consulate in Shanghai stepped in to assist the passenger.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu criticised the incident as a breach of international norms and disrespect toward Indian citizens.
Thongdok later said on social media that she was held for hours before contacting the Indian Consulate through a friend, after which officials helped her board a late-night flight out of Shanghai.
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