India reaffirmed its stance on the territorial integrity of Arunachal Pradesh, dismissing China's objections to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to inaugurate the Sela tunnel in the northeastern state. China, which lays claim to Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet, criticized PM Modi's visit, stating it would further complicate the boundary issue.
Rejecting China's remarks, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, emphasized that Indian leaders regularly visit Arunachal Pradesh, just like any other state in the country. He asserted that objections to such visits and India's development projects lack validity and don't alter the fact that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India.
Jaiswal reiterated that India has consistently communicated this position to China on numerous occasions. Following PM Modi's visit, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, reiterated China's stance, stating that Beijing does not recognize Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and opposes its establishment.
The Sela Tunnel, situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, was inaugurated by PM Modi on March 9. As the world's longest twin-lane tunnel, it holds strategic importance by ensuring all-weather connectivity to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Despite China's objections, India remains committed to its developmental projects in the region, emphasizing the territorial integrity of Arunachal Pradesh.
Read also | Supreme Court to Review SBI's Request for Extension on Electoral Bond Disclosure
