Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Challenges China's Territorial Claims

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has made a bold statement asserting that India shares its border with Tibet, not China, directly challenging Beijing's territorial claims. His remarks come amid rising tensions and China's attempts to rename locations in the state. Khandu also raised concerns about a massive dam project by China, labeling it a potential threat to water security. In response, the Arunachal Pradesh government is working on a project to ensure water security and engage with local communities. This article delves into Khandu's assertions and the implications for India's territorial integrity and water resources.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 9, 2025, 17:24 IST

Khandu's Bold Assertion on India's Borders

On July 9, Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu made a significant statement asserting that India shares its border with Tibet rather than China, directly contesting Beijing's narrative regarding the region.

During an interview on Wednesday, Khandu interrupted a mention of Arunachal's 1,200-km border with China, clarifying, "Let me correct you here. We share a border with Tibet, not China."

This remark comes in light of escalating tensions due to China's ongoing territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh and its recent efforts to rename various locations within the state.

"While Tibet is currently under Chinese control, historically, we share a border with Tibet. Arunachal Pradesh has three international borders: approximately 150 km with Bhutan, around 1,200 km with Tibet, and about 550 km with Myanmar," he elaborated.

Khandu emphasized that no Indian state directly borders China; instead, they border Tibet, which was occupied by China in the 1950s.

He pointed out that historical evidence, such as the 1914 Shimla Convention, supports India's claim over the region, as this convention defined the border between India and Tibet.

China has made multiple attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, marking this as their fifth effort.

"The last time they renamed several locations in Arunachal... if I recall correctly, this is their fifth attempt overall. This behavior is not surprising to us; we are aware of China's tendencies, and the Ministry of External Affairs has addressed this matter," he stated.

Concerns Over China's Water Projects

The Defence Against China’s ‘Water Bomb’

Khandu also expressed concerns regarding a massive dam being constructed by China near the Arunachal Pradesh border, labeling it a potential "water bomb" and a significant threat, surpassing even military concerns.

He described the dam project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, known as the Brahmaputra in India, as a serious issue since China is not a signatory to any international water treaty that would compel it to adhere to global standards.

"The problem is that China cannot be trusted. Their actions are unpredictable," Khandu remarked.

In response to these concerns, the Arunachal Pradesh government, in collaboration with the Indian government, has initiated the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, aimed at enhancing water security and serving as a defensive measure.

Khandu noted that if the project is completed as planned, it will ensure that India can meet its water needs independently.

"In the future, if China releases water, it could lead to flooding, but we can manage it," he added.

To facilitate this, the state government is engaging in discussions with local Adi tribes and other communities in the region.