India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh remains an integral part of India, emphasizing the nation’s stance against any foreign interference regarding its territorial integrity, particularly in light of recent tensions following the detention of an Indian citizen at Shanghai airport. Prema Wangjom Thongdok, an Indian passport holder born in Arunachal Pradesh, was held for 18 hours during her layover, with Chinese officials questioning the validity of her travel documents based on their claim over the region. The Indian government lodged a formal protest, urging China to ensure that Indian nationals transiting through its airports are not subjected to arbitrary detention or harassment, while simultaneously advising travelers to exercise caution. This incident poses a challenge to the ongoing attempts at stabilizing India-China relations, marked by cautious rapprochement following previous border conflicts. The diplomatic response from India signifies a firm assertion of sovereignty while seeking to maintain dialogue with China, underscoring the delicate balance between national interests and bilateral engagement amidst persistent territorial disputes.