China Renames 30 Cities in Arunachal Pradesh Amidst Controversy

Beijing, April 1 (PTI): China has stirred controversy once again by asserting its claim over Arunachal Pradesh and renaming 30 cities in the region, despite objections from India. The Global Times reported that China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs issued a fourth list for renaming places in Arunachal Pradesh. Effective from May 1, these changes have reignited tensions in the region.

China’s provocative actions in Arunachal Pradesh have drawn attention as its Ministry of Civil Affairs released a fourth list of name changes for 30 places in the region. The decision, made effective from May 1, has raised concerns over China’s territorial ambitions.

India has expressed disapproval of China’s move, emphasizing that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the country, and altering its names will not change this fact.

The order, detailed in Article 13, stipulates that names in foreign languages that may challenge China’s territorial claims will not be directly mentioned or translated without authorization.

China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs previously issued name change lists for six places in Arunachal Pradesh in 2017, followed by 15 places in 2021 and 11 places in 2023.

India’s firm stance against China’s actions underscores the ongoing territorial disputes and diplomatic tensions between the two nations.