The Ministry of External Affairs has delivered a strong rebuttal to China's recent claims over Arunachal Pradesh, labeling them as completely baseless and asserting that no amount of denial from the Chinese side will alter the reality of the northeastern state being an integral part of India.
India's Firm Stance on Territorial Integrity
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the media on Tuesday, responding firmly to statements made by the Chinese defense ministry. The Chinese side had reiterated its claim over what it calls 'Zangnan' while objecting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the state.
Jaiswal emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh was, is, and will always be an inseparable part of India. He categorically stated that assigning invented names to the region would not change this fundamental reality. The Indian government's position remains clear and unwavering on this matter of national sovereignty.
Background of the Dispute
The latest exchange marks another chapter in the long-standing border dispute between the two Asian neighbors. The tension follows recent clashes between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control in the Yangtse area of Tawang sector in December 2022.
The Chinese defense ministry spokesperson Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang had earlier claimed that the southern part of Xizang (the Chinese name for Tibet) is an inherent part of China's territory. Beijing has consistently objected to Indian leaders' visits to Arunachal Pradesh, maintaining its position that the region falls under Chinese sovereignty.
Recent Developments and Future Implications
This diplomatic confrontation comes at a time when both nations have been engaged in military and diplomatic talks to resolve ongoing border issues. Despite multiple rounds of discussions, substantial differences remain unresolved between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The Indian government has made it clear that it will continue to develop and administer Arunachal Pradesh as it does any other state within the Indian union. Development projects and political visits to the region will proceed without hesitation, reflecting India's firm commitment to its territorial integrity.
Observers note that such exchanges highlight the persistent tensions along the India-China border, even as both countries maintain diplomatic channels for dialogue. The situation continues to be monitored closely by international community members concerned about regional stability in South Asia.
