China has expressed strong objections after an Indian team named a peak in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anini district after Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. Beijing claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of its territory, referring to it as “South Tibet.” This move has sparked tensions between the two nations, already strained due to border disputes.

The Indian team, comprising mountaineers and trekkers, named the peak “Dalai Lama Peak” in honor of the spiritual leader, who has been living in exile in India since 1959. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the move “violates China’s territorial sovereignty” and urged India to refrain from actions that could complicate border disputes.

India has not officially commented on the matter, but the naming of the peak is seen as a symbolic assertion of India’s sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh. The region has long been a contentious issue between India and China, with periodic flare-ups along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This development may further escalate tensions between the two nations.

The Dalai Lama’s influence remains a sensitive topic in China-India relations. Beijing views the Dalai Lama as a separatist leader, while India considers him a spiritual leader and honored guest. The naming of the peak highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region and underscores the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve longstanding territorial disputes.