Incident at Shanghai Pudong Airport
An incident at Shanghai Pudong Airport on November 21, 2025, has sparked a diplomatic exchange between India and China. Pema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based Indian financial advisor originally from Arunachal Pradesh, alleged that she was harassed and detained by Chinese immigration officials during a transit layover from London to Japan. Thongdok claimed her scheduled three-hour layover extended into an 18-hour ordeal after officials questioned the validity of her Indian passport, specifically citing her birthplace in Arunachal Pradesh.
Allegations of Passport Invalidity and Mockery
According to Thongdok's account, immigration personnel at the airport declared her Indian passport 'invalid' because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her place of birth. She alleged that officials stated 'Arunachal is a part of China' and that her Indian passport was therefore 'not valid.' Thongdok further claimed that she was mocked, with one official reportedly suggesting she 'should get a Chinese passport, because I am Chinese.' Her passport was allegedly withheld, preventing her from boarding her connecting flight to Japan despite possessing a valid visa. She also reported being unable to rebook tickets, purchase meals, or move between terminals.
China's Official Stance
In response to the allegations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, denied any harassment or compulsory measures against Thongdok. Mao Ning stated that Chinese immigration officials carried out checks 'in accordance with laws and regulations' and that 'the law enforcement was impartial and non-abusive.' She asserted that 'the lawful rights and interests of the person concerned were fully protected, no compulsory measures were taken on her, and there was no so-called 'detaining' or 'harassing'.' Mao Ning also claimed that the airline provided Thongdok with 'resting facilities and meals.'
Territorial Dispute and India's Protest
The incident is set against the backdrop of the long-standing territorial dispute between India and China over Arunachal Pradesh. Mao Ning reiterated China's claim over the region, referring to it as 'Zangnan' and stating that 'China never acknowledged the so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally set up by India.' In response to the alleged harassment, India lodged a 'strong demarche' (formal diplomatic protest) with China in both Beijing and New Delhi. India firmly conveyed that Arunachal Pradesh is 'indisputably' an Indian territory and its residents are fully entitled to travel with Indian passports. The Indian Consulate in Shanghai provided assistance to Thongdok during her ordeal. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his shock, describing the incident as a 'violation of international norms and an affront to the dignity of Indian citizens.'
5 Comments
Katchuka
Mao Ning's statement makes sense. They followed regulations, no harassment.
Loubianka
While China is within its rights to uphold its border policies, the alleged 18-hour detention and mockery seem excessive for a transit passenger. This incident clearly underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Eugene Alta
China has every right to enforce its immigration laws. Period.
Leonardo
Arunachal Pradesh is Indian. China needs to stop its aggressive posturing.
Coccinella
If Arunachal is disputed, then China's stance on the passport is consistent with their claims.