India issued a strong and uncompromising statement on Monday after reports emerged that Pema Thongdok, a woman from Arunachal Pradesh, had been detained by Chinese authorities near the border. The Ministry of External Affairs said it had taken up the matter with Beijing “at the highest levels,” calling China’s actions unacceptable and reaffirming that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India.
According to Indian officials, Thongdok had been travelling near a border village when she was picked up by Chinese personnel under unclear circumstances. Her family later alerted local authorities, prompting New Delhi to launch an urgent inquiry and make a formal diplomatic protest.
The Chinese side reportedly denied the detention, claiming there was “no violation” and describing the incident as a misunderstanding. That response triggered an even sharper reaction from New Delhi, which said the facts were “clear, verified, and irrefutable.”
“No amount of denial will change reality,” an MEA spokesperson said, stressing that the woman’s whereabouts and safety remain India’s immediate priority. The spokesperson added that China must “ensure her swift and safe return” and avoid actions that create distrust along the Line of Actual Control.
Local officials in Arunachal Pradesh said incidents involving civilians near the border have increased over the past few years as China expands patrol activity and infrastructure on its side of the frontier. Residents often report confrontations, restrictions on grazing routes, and heightened military movement in remote areas.
Security analysts say the latest episode is likely to add pressure to already strained relations between the two countries. Despite ongoing military talks and recent claims of improved communication, incidents involving civilians remain highly sensitive and politically charged.
China has not issued any further clarification beyond its initial denial, while India maintains that it will continue to pursue the matter until Thongdok is safely reunited with her family.