China has once again attempted to assert its claim over Arunachal Pradesh following the decision by Indian mountaineers to name a 20,942-foot peak after the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. This action sparked anger from China, which expressed its displeasure over the naming.
A team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), operating under the Ministry of Defense, climbed the unnamed peak and decided to honor the Dalai Lama for his significant contributions to the Monpa community. A press release from the Ministry stated, “Naming the hill after the sixth Dalai Lama is to honor his immortal wisdom and his profound contribution to the Monpa community.”
Tsangyang Gyatso was born in 1682 in the Mon Tawang region and played a crucial role in the history of Arunachal Pradesh, home to the only nomadic tribe in Northeast India.
When questioned about the matter, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian responded with confusion, stating, “I do not know what you are talking about.” He reiterated that “Jangnan” (Arunachal Pradesh) is Chinese territory and deemed India’s establishment of “Arunachal Pradesh” as illegal. Meanwhile, India has consistently labeled China’s claims as baseless, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the nation.
Previously, China had objected to Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh and has altered the names of several areas in the region.