Chinese Authorities Deny Harassment of Indian Citizen in Shanghai
An Indian woman from Arunachal Pradesh was held for nearly 18 hours at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on 21 November 2025 during a transit from London to Japan. She alleged that Chinese immigration officials invalidated her Indian passport, citing her birthplace as “Arunachal Pradesh” which they claimed was not recognized. The passenger reported being singled out and subjected to repeated questioning.
China’s Response
China’s Foreign Ministry responded by reiterating its long-held position on Arunachal Pradesh, saying it does not recognize the state and considers the region as “Zangnan/South Tibet.” Chinese authorities stated that immigration officers adhered to domestic laws, provided facilities and meals to the traveller, and did not subject her to compulsory measures or harassment.
India’s Reaction and Diplomatic Fallout
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi strongly protested the incident, emphasising that Arunachal Pradesh is an “integral and inalienable part of India” and upholding the right of its residents to Indian passports. India lodged a formal demarche with China in both Beijing and Delhi and said it would hold China accountable for the treatment of its citizen. The episode has added strain to the already sensitive India-China border and diplomatic relations.
