India Reaffirms Arunachal Pradesh As Integral Part After China's Objection
India responds to China's criticism, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterates Arunachal's status. China calls renaming of locations 'illegal' and 'null and void'.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, following China's fresh objection to the renaming of 27 locations within the state. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Arunachal Pradesh is 'an inalienable and integral part of India', and that 'nothing can change this indisputable reality'.
Jaiswal made the statement at the weekly MEA briefing, in response to China's criticism of the renaming of locations in Arunachal Pradesh. China had called the move 'illegal' and 'null and void'. The MEA spokesperson emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh's status as an integral part of India is a 'self-evident fact'.
The issue of Arunachal Pradesh's status has been a point of contention between India and China for many years. China claims the region as its own, referring to it as 'South Tibet'. However, India has consistently maintained that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of its territory.
In addition to addressing the issue of Arunachal Pradesh, Jaiswal also spoke about India's relations with other countries in the region. He mentioned a recent meeting between India's envoy to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, and India extended an invitation to Prime Minister Rahman to visit India for the BRICS summit.
Jaiswal also addressed the issue of the extradition of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stating that India's position on the matter is clear and that the case is being looked into as per established processes.
Furthermore, Jaiswal responded to a remark made by Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, who stated that Nepal was unable to locate the 1816 Sugauli Treaty that established Nepal's boundary with British India. Jaiswal emphasized that India's relations with Nepal are good, and that the two countries can sit and talk about any issues that may arise.
In conclusion, the MEA's reaffirmation of Arunachal Pradesh's status as an integral part of India is a significant development in the country's relations with China. The issue is likely to continue to be a point of contention between the two countries, but India's position on the matter remains clear.
The MEA's statements on India's relations with other countries in the region, including Bangladesh and Nepal, also highlight the country's commitment to maintaining good relations with its neighbors. As the region continues to evolve and new challenges arise, India's diplomatic efforts will be crucial in maintaining stability and promoting cooperation.
The ongoing tensions between India and China over the status of Arunachal Pradesh are a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region. As the two countries continue to navigate their differences, it is essential for India to maintain its position on the issue and to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute.
In the context of India's broader foreign policy, the MEA's statements on Arunachal Pradesh and other regional issues highlight the country's commitment to protecting its territorial integrity and promoting cooperation with its neighbors. As India continues to play a increasingly important role in regional and global affairs, its diplomatic efforts will be critical in shaping the country's relationships with other nations and addressing the challenges that arise.
Overall, the MEA's reaffirmation of Arunachal Pradesh's status as an integral part of India is a significant development that highlights the country's commitment to protecting its territorial integrity and promoting cooperation with its neighbors. The issue is likely to continue to be a point of contention between India and China, but India's position on the matter remains clear.
Frequently asked questions
What is the status of Arunachal Pradesh according to India?
Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
Why is China objecting to the renaming of locations in Arunachal Pradesh?
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as its own, referring to it as 'South Tibet', and therefore objects to any changes to the region's status.