In response, to China’s decision to provide visas instead of stamped ones to three athletes from Arunachal Pradesh India has taken a firm stance by withdrawing its entire wushu (martial art) team from the upcoming World University Games in Chengdu, China. This action serves as a protest against China’s move, which has been a concern for Indian athletes from Arunachal Pradesh.
Coach Raghvendra Singh disclosed that the decision to withdraw the team was made shortly after airport officials in New Delhi prevented a group of eight individuals, including five athletes, one coach and two support personnel from boarding their flight to China on Thursday night at midnight.
Although the athletes from Arunachal Pradesh who were scheduled to leave for China on Friday at 1;05 am were not among those denied entry it was decided that no Indian wushu players should participate in the competition as a demonstration against China’s practices.
According to an official from the Wushu Federation of India, other athletes with travel documents were also not allowed to board their flights in solidarity with their Arunachal Pradesh athletes and as a form of protest against China’s actions.
Over time individuals from Arunachal Pradesh have frequently encountered visa denials from China due, to a dispute. China still regards regions, such as Arunachal Pradesh as areas of contention. The athletes had applied for their visas on July 16th. Although the visa applications of the team members were promptly processed the paperwork submitted by three athletes from Arunachal Pradesh—Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu—were not approved.
India has raised the matter of authorities denying stamped visas to citizens from Arunachal Pradesh multiple times, but a solution has not been found.