Shanghai Airport Detains Indian Woman from Arunachal, Triggers Diplomatic Row

The interview begins with Pema explaining that she is a frequent traveler who had earlier transited through Shanghai without any issues. This time, however, officers singled her out, mocked her Indian citizenship, and insisted her passport was “invalid.” They told her to “apply for a Chinese passport,” dismissed her questions, and blocked her from accessing food or contacting family due to internet restrictions.

Pema described the humiliation of being told her birthplace—Arunachal Pradesh—was not part of India. Despite holding a valid Japanese visa, she was forced to buy an expensive ticket back to India only via China Eastern Airlines, the same carrier that had allowed her to fly from London.

She also recalled how the Indian Consulate in Shanghai finally intervened, providing her food and support, though Chinese authorities still refused to let her continue her journey.

In her concluding remarks, Ms. Barkha Dutt praised Pema for speaking up with courage. She reminded viewers that Pema stood firm as a proud Indian citizen and brought global attention to an act of intimidation that raises important diplomatic questions.