MEA Warns Indians to Travel Carefully Through China After Detention Incident
MEA Warns Indians to Travel Carefully Through China After Detention Incident
India urges caution for travelers to China after a woman from Arunachal Pradesh was detained in Shanghai, seeking assurances that Indian nationals won't be harassed at airports.
The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a caution to Indian travelers heading to or transiting through China in the wake of a troubling incident at Shanghai’s airport involving a woman from Arunachal Pradesh. She alleges she was detained for hours, and that her Indian passport was declared invalid because her birthplace is Arunachal Pradesh, a region whose status remains disputed. The episode has prompted New Delhi to seek clarifications and assurances from Chinese authorities that Indian citizens will be treated fairly and in accordance with international travel norms.
MEA officials emphasised that the guidance is a precautionary measure, not a travel ban, and it calls on Chinese authorities to guarantee that Indian travelers will not be selectively targeted, arbitrarily detained, or harassed at airports. The guidance also underscores that international air travel regulations should be respected by all sides as travel resumes to normal between the two countries after a suspension of direct flights for several years.
The government’s message is clear: travelers should exercise due discretion, stay informed about travel advisories, and ensure they carry all necessary documentation. In addition, travelers are advised to remain in contact with Indian embassies and consulates for assistance if they encounter any difficulties en route. While the situation highlights ongoing sensitivities in China-India relations, officials insist the aim is to protect Indian travelers and uphold fair treatment at transit points.
Cover image source: Watch: “We expect China to assure that Indian travellers aren’t selectively targeted.” — MEA 🔗
