New Delhi, Jan 3, 2025: India has formally lodged a protest with China regarding the establishment of two new counties in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which encroach upon territory in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) addressed this issue today, underscoring India’s unwavering stance on its sovereignty.
Chinese state media Xinhua reported on December 27 that the government of Xinjiang announced the formation of He’an County and Hekang County, approved by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council.
In response, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that parts of these newly formed counties fall within Indian territory. He emphasized that India has never accepted China’s illegal occupation of Ladakh and continues to assert its sovereignty over the region.
“We have observed reports regarding the establishment of these counties in Hotan Prefecture. Parts of their jurisdiction fall under India’s Union Territory of Ladakh. We have never accepted the illegal Chinese occupation of Indian territory in this area,” Jaiswal remarked.
He further noted that the creation of new counties will not alter India’s long-standing position on its sovereignty nor lend legitimacy to China’s unlawful actions. A formal protest has been lodged through diplomatic channels.
Concerns Over Brahmaputra Hydropower Project
In a related development, India has expressed its concerns regarding China’s ongoing hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet. Xinhua reported on December 25 that China is constructing a significant hydropower project in the Tibet Autonomous Region, which has raised alarms about its potential impact on downstream water flow.
As a lower riparian state with established rights to the river’s waters, India has consistently voiced concerns regarding large-scale projects in upstream regions. The Indian government has reiterated the importance of transparency and consultations with downstream countries to prevent adverse impacts on shared water resources.
“India has consistently communicated its views regarding such mega projects in China’s territory through both expert-level discussions and diplomatic channels,” Jaiswal stated. “We urge China to ensure that the interests of downstream nations are safeguarded against any adverse effects resulting from activities in upstream areas. India will continue to closely monitor developments and take necessary actions to protect its interests.”
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