Asian Games: China denies visa to athletes from Arunachal

China has denied regular Chinese visas to three Indian Wushu athletes from Arunachal state for the Asian Games, as it claims that territory is its part illegally occupied by India.

According to Kashmir Media Service, two of the Wushu players hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu, who were approved to take part by the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023 Organising Committee, were unable to download their accreditation cards – which act as visas to enter China. The third athlete Nyeman Wangsu, who managed to download her accreditation, was informed that she would not be allowed to travel beyond Hong Kong. The athletes were to take part in individual events of the martial arts sport.

Following the development, Indian sports Minister Anurag Thakur has cancelled his visit to China for the Asian Games.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi said that India reserved the right to take measures to safeguard its interests, Indian media reported.

“As a mark of our protest against the Chinese action, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports of India has cancelled his scheduled visit to China for the Games. Government of India reserves the right to take suitable measures to safeguard our interest,” Bagchi said.

The Indian MEA said that a protest had been lodged in New Delhi and Beijing.

The Asian Games will commence in China’s eastern city of Hangzhou, tomorrow (September 23) and conclude on October 8.