NEW DLEHI: China on Tuesday denied allegations that an Indian woman from Arunachal Pradesh was harassed or detained at Shanghai airport, insisting that its border checks were conducted strictly “in accordance with laws and regulations.” The statement came even as India lodged a strong diplomatic protest.The woman, Pema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based Indian passport holder, was travelling from London to Japan on November 21 when immigration officials reportedly flagged her passport as “invalid” because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace. She later wrote on social media that she was held for around 18 hours, until officials at the Indian Consulate in Shanghai intervened.Responding to PTI’s query on the incident, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the woman was not subjected to any coercive action.“During the entire time, China’s border inspection authorities carried out checks procedures in accordance with laws and regulations… no compulsory measures were taken on her, and there was no so-called ‘detaining’ or ‘harassing’,” Mao said, adding that the airline had provided “resting facilities and meals.” Mao also said Beijing’s position on the state, saying, “Zangnan is China’s territory, and China does not recognise the so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India.”Citing sources agencies said, a demarche was issued to China in New Delhi and Beijing on the day of the incident, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an “indisputable” part of India and residents are entitled to travel on Indian passports. The Indian Consulate in Shanghai “extended the fullest assistance” to the passenger, officials added.Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu said he was “deeply shocked” and called the episode a “violation of international norms and an affront to the dignity of Indian citizens.”The Congress party, reacting sharply to Mao’s remarks, accused Beijing of making an “offensive” statement and urged the government to respond firmly. In a post on X, the party said China’s comments were “extremely objectionable” and “a blatant attack on India’s integrity,” adding that “India will not tolerate such low-level rhetoric.” (With inputs from agencies)
