NEW DELHI: Tensions between India and Nepal may escalate as the new government in Kathmandu has formally protested India’s decision to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, an area claimed by Nepal, with support from China. The Indian government has dismissed Nepal’s territorial claims, asserting that they are not justified and lack historical basis. “Such unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable,” the Indian external affairs ministry stated in response to a claim made by Nepal’s foreign ministry.
Nepal has indicated that it has addressed this issue through diplomatic channels with both India and China, clarifying its stance and concerns about the pilgrimage through what it describes as “Nepali territory Lipulekh.” The Indian government reiterated that its position has been “consistent and clear,” emphasizing that Lipulekh Pass has served as a traditional route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954.
The Nepalese foreign ministry referenced the Sugauli Treaty of 1816, asserting that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani—located east of the Mahakali River—are integral parts of Nepal. India has previously urged Nepal to avoid making unjustified cartographic claims and to respect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This border dispute presents an early challenge for the new government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah as it navigates its foreign policy. Officials from both countries are in discussions regarding a visit by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Kathmandu next week to strengthen the bilateral cooperation agenda.
The Lipulekh area in the Kalapani region is significant as it serves as one of Nepal’s tri-junctions with India and China. While India asserts that Kalapani, including Limpiyadhura and Lipulekh, is part of Uttarakhand, Nepal has previously expressed discontent over joint India-China initiatives aimed at enhancing trade through the strategic Lipulekh Pass.
In its statement, Nepal reiterated its ongoing appeal to India to refrain from any activities in the contested area, including road construction, border trade, or pilgrimage tourism. Furthermore, the statement clarified that China has also been officially notified about Nepal’s claims to the Lipulekh region.
In conclusion, Nepal expressed its commitment to resolving border issues through diplomatic means informed by historical treaties, agreements, maps, and evidence, while India has indicated it is open to constructive dialogue on outstanding boundary issues within the bilateral relationship.
