Did CM Khandu Condemn China's Actions After Arunachal Woman's 18-Hour Detention?
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Synopsis
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu's strong condemnation of Chinese immigration authorities follows the shocking detention of an Arunachal woman for 18 hours at Shanghai Airport. This incident raises serious questions about international norms and the treatment of Indian citizens abroad.
Key Takeaways
- Pema Khandu strongly condemned the treatment of an Arunachal woman by Chinese authorities.
- The woman faced detention for nearly 18 hours at Shanghai Pudong Airport.
- India has lodged a strong demarche with China regarding the incident.
- The incident raises significant questions about international norms and the treatment of Indian citizens.
- CM Khandu emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India.
Itanagar, Nov 25 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, vehemently criticized the actions of Chinese immigration officials on Tuesday for their “unacceptable” and “appalling” treatment of an Arunachal woman. She was reportedly held for nearly 18 hours at Shanghai Pudong Airport after officials allegedly refused to acknowledge her Indian passport.
The Chief Minister expressed his deep shock regarding the distressing experience of Pema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based Indian national, stating that the behavior of the Chinese authorities was tantamount to “humiliation and racial mockery.”
In a post on his official X account, CM Khandu remarked: “I am deeply shocked by the unacceptable treatment of Ms. Prema Wangjom Thongdok, a proud Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh, by Chinese immigration authorities at Shanghai Pudong Airport.”
He further added, “Subjecting her, despite a valid Indian passport, to humiliation is appalling. Arunachal Pradesh is and will always be an integral part of India. Any insinuation to the contrary is baseless and offensive. Such conduct violates international norms and is an affront to the dignity of our citizens.” He expressed confidence that the Ministry of External Affairs of India would address this issue promptly to prevent future occurrences.
Thongdok, originating from Rupa in the West Kameng district, has resided in the UK for many years. She was traveling from London to Japan for a vacation on November 21 when her brief layover devolved into a “prolonged and distressing confrontation.”
Having been educated in the USA, Thongdok has spent significant time in London. Reports indicate that her father, L.D. Thongdok, a notable engineer in the PWD, passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the incident, India lodged a strong demarche with China both in Beijing and New Delhi after Thongdok's alleged detention on “ludicrous grounds.”
According to Thongdok, the ordeal lasted 18 hours as officials deemed her passport “invalid” due to her birthplace being listed as Arunachal Pradesh. She recounted being detained, harassed, and subjected to officials insisting that “Arunachal Pradesh is part of China.”
Sources confirm that India reacted promptly, issuing a strong demarche and that the Indian Consulate in Shanghai provided local assistance to the distressed traveler.
Thongdok described several officials and staff from China Eastern Airlines mocking her, laughing, and even suggesting she “apply for a Chinese passport.”
What began as a routine transit escalated into an extended confinement in the airport's transit area, where she was denied clear information, adequate food, and basic facilities, as reported by NDTV.
Thongdok alleged that her passport was confiscated, and she was barred from boarding her flight to Japan, despite holding a valid visa. Confined to the transit zone, she was unable to rebook tickets, buy meals, or move between terminals.
She claimed officials pressured her into purchasing a new ticket specifically with China Eastern and hinted that her passport would only be returned upon doing so, resulting in missed flights and hotel booking losses. With assistance from a friend in the UK, she managed to reach the Indian Consulate in Shanghai, leading to intervention and her eventual late-night departure.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the gravity of this incident, which reflects broader geopolitical tensions. The treatment of Ms. Thongdok not only challenges the dignity of Indian citizens but also raises concerns regarding international relations. Our nation stands united against any form of discrimination, and it is crucial that the government addresses such violations swiftly.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Arunachal woman at Shanghai Airport?
The woman was detained for nearly 18 hours by Chinese immigration authorities, who refused to acknowledge her Indian passport, leading to allegations of humiliation and racial mockery.
Who is Pema Wangjom Thongdok?
Pema Wangjom Thongdok is a UK-based Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh who was traveling from London to Japan when she was detained at Shanghai Pudong Airport.
What was the Indian government's response?
India lodged a strong demarche with Chinese officials in Beijing and New Delhi, and the Indian Consulate in Shanghai intervened to assist the detained passenger.
What did CM Pema Khandu say about the incident?
CM Khandu expressed deep shock and condemned the treatment of Thongdok, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India and calling for urgent action from the Ministry of External Affairs.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident raises serious concerns about the treatment of Indian citizens abroad and highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and China.
