Speaking the truth proved costly for Arunachal! China detained Indian blogger for 15 hours, returned him to India without giving him food and water. Videos
travel vlogging only to roam around It is not only the name of the society, but it is also a means of bringing countries, cultures and truths in front of the world. One thing said in front of the camera sometimes becomes an inspiration, and sometimes the same thing makes the powers and limitations uncomfortable. Something similar happened with an Indian travel vlogger from Delhi in China, where a true statement turned his entire trip into a horrifying experience.
This case is not limited to the detention of a YouTuber, but also raises serious questions on sensitive issues of India-China, freedom of expression and travelers’ rights. What is considered a common truth in India has become a ‘crime’ in China.
Read now on WhatsApp also, click to subscribe
Who is Anant Mittal and why was he targeted?
Delhi-based travel YouTuber Anant Mittal makes a vlog with the name ‘On Road Indian’. He is known for his outspoken travels and clear stand on geo-political issues. In his content he described Arunachal Pradesh as a part of India, which is an indisputable fact for India, but China does not accept it.
Changed atmosphere at the immigration counter
On reaching China on 16 November 2025, everything was normal till the immigration counter. Passports were checked, stickers were also put, but they were stopped just before the final stamp. A senior officer was called and Anant was sent to the detention area – where some other foreign travelers were also present.
Waiting for hours without any information
For the first two hours no one told why they were stopped. Anant thought that perhaps this was a routine check, because the immigration process has become stricter in recent times. But as time passed, the situation became unusual.
Interrogation and digital search
After about two hours, he was taken to a separate room and the interrogation began. The bag was opened, the luggage was examined and all devices except the iPad were confiscated. Officials raised questions about his YouTube channel, content and statements made on Arunachal. It became clear here what the real reason was.
Hunger, thirst and distance from the embassy
Anant claims that during his detention he was not given food and water was given only once after hours. He remained without food for about 28 hours. The most serious thing was that he was not allowed to use the phone or contact the Indian Embassy, which increased the mental pressure further.
Return to India after 15 hours
After about 15 hours, officials said that his ‘process was completed’ and he would be sent back to India. Anant later released a detailed video sharing his entire experience and expressed hope that the matter would reach the Indian and Chinese authorities.
Arunachal became the root of controversy
Anant also mentioned Pem Wang Thongdok, who lives in the UK, who was detained for 18 hours at Shanghai Pudong International Airport in November 2025. The reason is the same, his birthplace being Arunachal Pradesh on his Indian passport. This shows that it is not an individual, but a pattern.
How heavy is the price of speaking the truth?
This incident is not just of one vlogger, but of every Indian who speaks the truth without fear. The attitude adopted in China towards Arunachal shows that today travel has become not just a trip but also a political risk. The question is, is speaking the truth no longer safe even within limits?
Comments are closed.