The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has categorically dismissed recent claims by the Chinese military asserting Arunachal Pradesh as a part of China’s territory, reaffirming the state’s status as an integral part of India.
The MEA responded to the comments made by the Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson, labeling them as “absurd” and devoid of any validity. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s stance, emphasizing that Arunachal Pradesh has been, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India.
The statement from the MEA comes in the wake of escalating tensions following Chinese military’s repeated assertions over Arunachal Pradesh’s sovereignty. This recent development follows closely on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the region.
China, known to recognize Arunachal Pradesh as ‘Zangnan’, has consistently opposed India’s administration of the region. Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defence Ministry, reiterated Beijing’s stance, asserting opposition to the “so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India.”
India, however, has firmly rejected China’s claims and objections in the past. Despite China’s objections to visits by Indian politicians to Arunachal Pradesh, India has maintained its position, stressing that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the country. India has further emphasized that assigning “invented” names to the region will not alter its reality or status.
