In a strong rebuttal to China’s repeated claims over Arunachal Pradesh, Bharat’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, labeled the assertions as “ludicrous” and affirmed that the northeastern state is an inherent part of Bharat.
Addressing the issue during a lecture at the NUS Institute of South Asian Studies, Jaishankar emphasized that China’s claims over Arunachal Pradesh are not new but have remained baseless and absurd over time.
“Arunachal Pradesh is a natural part of India,” asserted Jaishankar, highlighting Bharat’s unwavering stance on the matter. He hinted at ongoing boundary discussions but reiterated Bharat’s consistent position regarding the territorial integrity of Arunachal Pradesh.
The minister’s remarks come in response to recent provocations from China, including objections to Indian leaders’ visits to the region. China’s defense ministry had advanced claims over Arunachal Pradesh, which were promptly dismissed by Bharat’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In a statement, the MEA reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of Bharat, firmly rejecting China’s baseless arguments. The statement underscored Bharat’s commitment to the development and welfare of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, regardless of China’s objections.
China’s objections also extended to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh, which Bharat swiftly rebuffed. The MEA pointed out that Bharatiya leaders routinely visit various states within the country, and objections to such visits are unreasonable.
Bharat’s stance on the issue remains consistent, with the MEA reiterating that Arunachal Pradesh has always been, and will continue to be, an integral part of Bharat. Despite China’s objections, India has made it clear that the reality of Arunachal Pradesh’s status is non-negotiable.
The Bharatiya government has communicated its position to China on numerous occasions, emphasizing the futility of disputing the status of Arunachal Pradesh. As tensions persist between the two countries over territorial claims, Bharat’s firm stance signals its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Comments