India has officially expressed its objections to China through diplomatic channels after Beijing announced the establishment of two new counties, parts of which fall within the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday that India firmly rejects China’s actions in the region.

According to Chinese state media outlet Xinhua, the government of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region recently created two new counties, He’an and Hekang, which will be governed by Hotan Prefecture. The announcement, made on December 27, received approval from the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted India’s position, stating, "We have seen the announcement regarding the establishment of two new counties in Hotan Prefecture. Parts 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."

Mr. Jaiswal emphasized that the creation of these counties does not change India’s consistent stance regarding its sovereignty over the region. “Establishing new administrative units will neither affect India’s long-standing position on its sovereignty nor legitimize China’s illegal and forcible occupation. We have lodged a formal protest with the Chinese side through diplomatic channels,” he added.

Reports indicate that the administrative seat of He’an County is Hongliu Township, while Hekang County’s seat is Xeyidula Township.

Concerns Over Brahmaputra Hydropower Project

In a separate matter, India has conveyed its concerns over China’s construction of a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet. The project, reported by Xinhua on December 25, is being developed in the Tibet Autonomous Region.

India, as a lower riparian state with established user rights to the river, has consistently raised objections to mega projects on upstream sections of the river. “We have repeatedly expressed our views and concerns to the Chinese side through expert-level and diplomatic channels,” Mr. Jaiswal said.

He reiterated the importance of transparency and consultation with downstream nations to ensure that their interests are not adversely affected. “We urge the Chinese side to ensure that the rights and welfare of downstream states, including India, are not harmed by activities in upstream areas. We will continue to monitor developments and take necessary steps to safeguard our interests,” he stated.

India remains vigilant about developments along its borders and rivers, asserting its territorial integrity and ensuring the rights of its citizens are protected.