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New Delhi: China has publicly defended its immigration officials' actions at Shanghai Pudong Airport, dismissing claims of detention and harassment made by Pema Wangjom Thongdok, an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh. Beijing maintains that its actions were "in accordance with the country's laws and regulations" and that Thongdok's rights were fully protected, despite her being held for nearly 18 hours.
The incident occurred on November 21 when Thongdok, traveling from London to Japan. She was reportedly denied passage by Chinese immigration officials who declared her Indian passport "invalid" due to her birthplace being listed as Arunachal Pradesh. China refers to the northeastern Indian state as "Zangnan" or South Tibet, a territory it claims as its own.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated Beijing's long-standing stance, stating, "Zangnan is China’s territory. The Chinese side has never recognised the so-called 'Arunachal Pradesh' illegally set up by India."
Mao went on to assert that Thongdok was not subjected to "compulsory measures" and that there was no "detention" or "harassment." She also noted that the airline provided resting facilities and meals during the delay.
“The law enforcement was impartial and non-abusive, and the lawful rights and interests of the person concerned were fully protected. No compulsory measures were taken on her, and there was no so-called ‘detention’ or ‘harassment’," the Chinese spokesperson said.
The Chinese response comes after India lodged a formal diplomatic protest, a demarche, in both Beijing and Delhi. Indian officials firmly stated that Arunachal Pradesh is "indisputably" part of India and that its citizens are entitled to travel on Indian passports. The Indian Consulate in Shanghai also provided assistance to Thongdok, helping her secure a flight out of China.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from Indian officials. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his "deep shock," calling the episode a "violation of international norms" and an affront to the dignity of Indian citizens. Thongdok herself detailed her ordeal on social media, describing the nearly 18-hour detention and her eventual release with the help of the Indian consulate.
