India has categorically responded to China’s recent actions of assigning “fictitious names” to territories within Indian borders, asserting that such attempts will not alter the established reality. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasised that these moves by China are baseless and constitute mischief that is unacceptable to India.

Jaiswal stated unequivocally that India “rejects any mischievous attempts” at altering names of places that belong to it. He reiterated that areas, including Arunachal Pradesh, are and will always remain an inseparable part of India.

These remarks were made in response to queries from the media regarding China’s efforts to rename these locations, which India perceives as unjustified claims on its sovereignty.

Impact on India-China Relations

The spokesperson highlighted that such actions by China could have ramifications on the progress made in normalising bilateral relations. He indicated that these moves inject negativity into an already sensitive relationship, urging China to avoid actions that hinder diplomatic efforts to enhance understanding and cooperation.

Relations between India and China had already deteriorated significantly following the border clash in eastern Ladakh in 2020. Since then, both nations have undertaken various measures aimed at rebuilding ties and restoring dialogue.

Despite these efforts, developments such as China’s renaming of territories continue to strain the relationship. Jaiswal’s comments reflect India’s ongoing concerns regarding China’s territorial claims and the implications for regional stability.

China’s Renaming Actions

Recently, China has published a list of renamed areas located within Indian territory, which has raised alarms in New Delhi. In 2017, the Chinese Civil Affairs Ministry released the first list that standardised names for six locations in what China refers to as Zangnan, the name it uses for Arunachal Pradesh.

Subsequent lists followed, with a total of eighteen places being included over the years, including one released in 2023 that designated names for eleven areas. These actions are perceived in India as part of a broader strategy to assert territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, which China characterises as part of southern Tibet.

India maintains that these claims are unfounded and continues to advocate for the recognition of its sovereignty over the region. The ongoing narrative surrounding names and territorial integrity remains a core issue in the diplomatic dialogue between the two countries.

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