China renames 30 places in Arunachal Pradesh amid escalating tensions

PTC Web Desk: China has stirred controversy once again by releasing a fourth list containing 30 new names for various places in Arunachal Pradesh. This move comes amidst Beijing's persistent efforts to assert its claim over the region, which it refers to as Zangnan. The Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs has unveiled the list, reinforcing its stance on Arunachal Pradesh being part of what it terms as south Tibet. India has vehemently opposed China's renaming of places in Arunachal Pradesh, asserting the state's integral status within the country and dismissing China's actions as futile attempts to alter reality.

According to reports from the state-run Global Times, the official website of the Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs published the additional names for the region, set to be implemented from May 1. However, India has consistently rebuffed China's efforts, stating that the renaming of places does not alter the ground reality of Arunachal Pradesh being an inseparable part of India.

The diplomatic tensions between China and India over Arunachal Pradesh have been escalating. China's recent assertiveness began with its protest against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, during which he inaugurated the strategically significant Sela Tunnel. This tunnel, situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, is pivotal in providing all-weather connectivity to the strategically important Tawang region and facilitating the movement of troops along the frontier.

In response to China's persistent claims over Arunachal Pradesh, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, dismissed China's assertions as "ludicrous." He reaffirmed India's stance that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India and reiterated India's commitment to resolving boundary disputes through dialogue.

China's displeasure extended to the United States after the State Department acknowledged Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory. The US emphasised its opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter territorial boundaries, affirming its recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as part of India.

Notably, the Chinese government has laid down strict guidelines regarding the translation of names in foreign or minority languages, aiming to standardise geographical names within Chinese territories.

The State Council of China issued revised regulations on place names in April 2022, focusing on naming, renaming, usage, and cultural protection of geographical names within Chinese territories. These regulations mandate adherence to standardised translations formulated by related state organs, which are made public through official notices, national databases, and publications.

Despite China's continued efforts to assert its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, India remains steadfast in its stance, emphasising the region's integral status within the country.