New Delhi: In a statement issued on Thursday, India rebuffed Beijing’s recurring assertions regarding Arunachal Pradesh, affirming the region’s immutable status as an integral and inseparable part of the nation. This declaration, articulated by MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the routine press briefing, served as a robust rebuttal to China’s persistent claims over the territory.
The spokesperson’s remarks followed closely on the heels of analogous assertions made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian earlier in the week. Jaiswal reiterated India’s steadfast stance on the matter, underscoring that repeated assertions by China would not sway India’s position. He emphatically underscored, “Arunachal Pradesh was, is, and shall forever remain an integral and inalienable component of India.”
Earlier on March 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had taken cognizance of statements issued by the spokesperson of the Chinese Defence Ministry, categorically dismissing them as baseless claims pertaining to the Arunachal Pradesh territory. The MEA unequivocally emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh’s status as an integral part of India remains unwavering and unassailable.
In response to queries regarding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent remarks concerning allegations surrounding the assassination of a Khalistani separatist leader on Canadian soil, the MEA spokesperson dismissed Trudeau’s comments as unremarkable. He recalled similar sentiments expressed by Trudeau’s predecessor during a press briefing in September, emphasizing India’s readiness to investigate any substantiated claims while cautioning against political maneuvering and the amplification of extremist narratives.
Addressing remarks from the Chinese foreign ministry regarding the case of Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the MEA spokesperson reiterated India’s and the United States’ adherence to the rule of law in resolving bilateral issues. He stressed the inappropriateness of speculative comments and unsolicited advice from unrelated third parties.
Furthermore, the Biden administration confirmed cooperation with the Indian government to hold accountable those involved in a thwarted plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, was charged by federal prosecutors in November last year in connection with the foiled conspiracy.
Regarding the UN Security Council’s recent resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the duration of Ramzan, the MEA spokesperson hailed the development as positive. He reiterated India’s longstanding calls for de-escalation and the prevention of conflict proliferation, emphasizing condemnation of terrorism, protection of civilians, and support for humanitarian aid delivery to Palestine.
On the topic of the Sri Lankan prime minister’s visit to Beijing, the spokesperson affirmed India’s vigilance in monitoring developments impacting its economic and security interests. He emphasized India’s commitment to taking necessary actions to safeguard its interests in the region.
