China denies detaining Indian woman, reiterates claim over Arunachal Pradesh

Beijing: China on Tuesday denied reports that a woman from Arunachal Pradesh was detained or harassed while transiting through the country, asserting that its border inspection authorities acted lawfully and professionally. Beijing also reiterated its territorial claim over the Indian state, referring to it as “Zangnan.”

Responding to a query on the incident, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “Zangnan is China’s territory. The Chinese side has never recognised the so-called ‘Arunachal Pradesh’ illegally set up by India.”

Mao stated that the border inspection authorities carried out all procedures in accordance with laws and regulations, and that the rights of the individual were fully protected. “No compulsory measures were taken on her, and there was no so-called detaining or harassing,” she said, adding that the woman was provided with resting facilities and meals by the airline.

“For anything more specific, I’d refer you to competent authorities,” Mao said, without providing further details.

On Monday, an Indian-origin UK resident from Arunachal Pradesh had accused Chinese immigration officials at Shanghai Pudong Airport of detaining, harassing, and preventing her from boarding a connecting flight after they refused to recognize her Indian passport due to her birthplace being listed as Arunachal Pradesh.

With inputs from ANI