India Firmly Rejects China's Objections to PM Modi's Arunachal Visit

In a decisive move, India has firmly rejected China's objections to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh. Responding to China's disapproval, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the protest "does not stand to reason."

The government reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh is, always has been, and will remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The statement addressed China's objections to visits by Indian leaders and developmental projects in the region, emphasizing that such objections will not alter the reality of Arunachal Pradesh's status within India.

PM Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh on March 9 included the inauguration of the strategically significant Sela Tunnel, recognized as the world's longest twin-lane tunnel. This infrastructural development holds particular importance for India's defence preparedness, ensuring all-weather connectivity in the region.

China's response, articulated by the Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Wang Wenbin, expressed the nation's longstanding claim over Arunachal Pradesh, referring to it as 'South Tibet.' Wang stated that China has never recognized the region set up by India and firmly opposes its existence. This position reflects the ongoing territorial dispute between the two nations.

Wang's comments also warned that India's actions in the region, including the inauguration of the Sela Tunnel, would complicate the boundary question and disrupt the situation in the border areas. While India asserts its sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh, viewing developmental projects as essential for regional connectivity and defence, China perceives such actions as provocations.

The Sela Tunnel, highlighted by the Defence Ministry for its strategic significance, is seen by China as an unwelcome assertion of Indian influence in the region. The latest exchange between India and China underscores the complexities and sensitivities in their bilateral relations, revealing the persistent challenges arising from historical and current territorial disputes.

As both nations navigate the delicate balance of asserting their interests, the geopolitical tensions surrounding Arunachal Pradesh serve as a reminder of the intricate nature of India-China relations, where historical complexities continue to influence present-day dynamics.