External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, firmly rejecting China’s territorial claims over the northeastern state.
Speaking at an interaction with students at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Jaishankar stressed that “Arunachal Pradesh is and will always remain a part of India.” His remarks came in response to concerns raised by Tarh Haniya, a third-year civil engineering student from Papum Pare district and president of the Students’ Association for the Development of India’s North East Region.
Haniya highlighted the recent case of Prema Wangjom, a resident of West Kameng district, who was detained for nearly 18 hours at Shanghai airport after Chinese authorities declared her Indian passport invalid, citing their refusal to recognise Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory. He noted that similar incidents have occurred in the past, causing distress for residents of the state travelling abroad.
Jaishankar dismissed Beijing’s position, asserting that such actions cannot alter the reality on the ground. He emphasised that international conventions regulate cross-border travel and India expects all nations to respect these norms.
Underscoring New Delhi’s unwavering stance, the minister said the issue goes beyond bilateral disputes and touches upon fundamental principles of international law. He added that India’s position on Arunachal Pradesh remains unequivocal and non-negotiable.
