Indian woman narrates long ordeal at Shanghai airport, says Chinese officials told her "Arunachal not part of India...apply for Chinese passport"

An Indian citizen, Prema Wangjom Thongdok, endured an 18-hour ordeal at Shanghai Pudong Airport, alleging harassment by Chinese immigration officials and staff from China Eastern Airlines. Thongdok, a UK resident transiting from London to Japan, claimed officials declared her Indian passport invalid and questioned her nationality, asserting that "Arunachal is not part of India" and suggesting she apply for a Chinese passport. This incident highlights potential challenges for international travelers navigating geopolitical sensitivities within the commercial aviation sphere.

Thongdok's account details how Chinese immigration officials singled her out, invalidated her travel documents, and subjected her to mocking remarks regarding her Indian citizenship. She further alleged that China Eastern Airlines staff also participated in the 'humiliating, questionable behaviour,' speaking in their language and pointing out Arunachal Pradesh while laughing. This alleged conduct by both airport authorities and airline personnel raises concerns about passenger treatment and adherence to international travel protocols.

The prolonged detention prevented Thongdok from contacting her family for an extended period. The situation was ultimately resolved after she managed to contact India's diplomatic missions in Shanghai and Beijing, whose officials intervened to facilitate her departure from the country. This intervention underscores the critical role diplomatic support plays when passengers encounter difficulties with foreign authorities or airline services during transit.

The incident occurs amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and China, particularly concerning the disputed region of Arunachal Pradesh. While India consistently affirms Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of its territory, China maintains its claims. This episode at a major international airport, involving an airline's staff, demonstrates how such political disputes can directly impact individual commercial air travelers and the operational environment of global aviation hubs.