India and China exchange accusations after detention of Indian passenger in Shanghai

Diplomatic Tensions Rise Over Airport Detention

The detention of Pema Wangjom Thongdok, an Indian citizen residing in the United Kingdom, at Shanghai Pudong International Airport has triggered a fresh diplomatic row between India and China. According to reports, Thongdok was held for several hours by Chinese immigration authorities before being released.

Incident and Official Reactions

Indian officials confirmed that the passenger was questioned upon arrival in Shanghai and later allowed to continue the journey. China has not provided a detailed explanation for the detention, referring only to “routine security procedures.”

New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs reportedly expressed concern over the treatment of the Indian national and requested a clarification from Beijing. In response, Chinese officials accused India of politicizing what they described as an ordinary immigration matter.

“This was a standard security check carried out in accordance with Chinese laws,” a spokesperson from China’s Foreign Ministry stated.

Broader Context of Strained Relations

The episode comes amid a period of heightened caution between the two Asian powers following earlier border tensions in the Himalayas and economic competition in global markets. Analysts note that even minor incidents are now viewed through a strategic lens by both sides.

Trade analysts and diplomats have emphasized that the detention may reflect the current mutual suspicion between the two governments rather than an isolated airport incident.

Public and Media Responses

Indian media framed the detention as part of a broader pattern of Beijing’s “assertive stance,” while Chinese outlets highlighted the need to avoid “overreaction and sensationalism.” Online discussions in both countries have mirrored the nationalistic tone of recent cross-border exchanges.

Author’s Summary:
The brief detention of an Indian traveler in Shanghai has ignited sharp diplomatic exchanges, underscoring persistent mistrust between India and China despite ongoing dialogue efforts.

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BBC BBC — 2025-11-26

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