Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: India has formally protested against China’s establishment of two new counties, some parts of which fall under the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed today that a diplomatic protest has been lodged against this move, which India views as an illegal assertion over its territory.
Chinese state media reported on December 27 that the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region’s government had announced two new counties—He’an County and Hekang County—to be administered by Hotan Prefecture.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal strongly objected, stating, “Parts of the jurisdiction of these so-called counties fall in India’s Union Territory of Ladakh. We have never accepted the illegal Chinese occupation of Indian territory in this area.”
He added, “Creation of new counties will neither alter India’s position on its sovereignty over the area nor lend legitimacy to China’s illegal and forcible occupation. We have lodged a solemn protest with the Chinese side through diplomatic channels.”
The headquarters of He’an County is Hongliu Township, while Hekang County’s administrative seat is Xeyidula Township, according to Chinese media reports.
Concerns Over Dam on Brahmaputra
India has also raised concerns regarding China’s construction of a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River (referred to as Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet). Chinese state media reported the project on December 25, noting its location in the Tibet Autonomous Region.
As a lower riparian state with established rights over the river’s waters, India emphasized the potential impact on downstream states. The MEA has reiterated its demand for transparency and consultation with affected countries.
“The Chinese side has been urged to ensure that the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra are not harmed by activities in upstream areas. We will continue to monitor and take necessary measures to protect our interests,” Jaiswal said.
