India-China News: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has raised objections regarding two new counties established by China. MEA stated that it has formally lodged protests through diplomatic channels against this move by China.
India-China Dispute: India Slams China’s Expansionist Moves
Neighbouring country China continues to pursue its expansionist policies, often attempting to encroach on Indian territory. This time, it is creating two counties in the Chinese territory adjacent to Ladakh, with a significant portion extending into the Indian Union Territory of Ladakh. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has expressed strong objections to these actions.
MEA: India Strongly Opposes
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that portions of the so-called counties fall within Ladakh, and India strongly opposes Chinese occupation in this region. The MEA has urged China to halt this project immediately.
The spokesperson further said that India has observed China’s announcement about creating two new counties in Hotan Province, some of which fall under Ladakh’s jurisdiction.
“No Legitimacy to Chinese Occupation”
Randhir Jaiswal asserted that these new administrative divisions do not affect India’s long-standing and consistent position on sovereignty over the area, nor do they legitimize China’s illegal and forcible occupation. India has lodged a serious protest with the Chinese side through diplomatic channels.
Chinese state media reported that He’an County’s administrative seat is in Hongliu Township, while Hekang County’s seat is in Zeydula Township. However, India is strongly opposing China’s encroachment in Ladakh.
On December 27, China’s state-run news agency Xinhua announced that the government of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region had established two new counties—He’an and Hekang. The Indian MEA emphasized that such occupation by China will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Concerns Over the Brahmaputra
China is also building a dam on the Brahmaputra River, prompting objections from the Indian government. The MEA spokesperson expressed concerns about this hydropower project. Xinhua reported on December 25 that China is constructing the hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet.
India, as a lower riparian state with established user rights over the river waters, has consistently conveyed its views and concerns about large projects on transboundary rivers through expert-level meetings and diplomatic channels.
Following the latest reports, India reiterated the need for transparency and consultation with downstream countries. The MEA has urged China to ensure that activities in the upper reaches of the Brahmaputra do not harm the interests of downstream states. India will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to safeguard its interests.
