Nepal has formally registered its objections regarding the route proposed for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which traverses through Lipulekh. The Nepalese Government has issued a diplomatic protest to both India and China, bringing a longstanding territorial dispute into the public spotlight once again. This development follows India’s recent announcement concerning the pilgrimage route that passes through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, adjacent to the trijunction with China.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal has released a statement confirming that it has acknowledged reports about the proposed yatra route and has reiterated its established territorial claims. “The Government of Nepal remains clear and firm that, as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” the statement noted.

Communication with India and China

According to Lok Bahadur Paudyal Chhetri, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, Nepal has communicated its concerns and positions to both New Delhi and Beijing through appropriate diplomatic channels. The ministry has confirmed that both nations were made aware that the Lipulekh area is considered part of Nepalese territory.

Shishir Khanal, the Foreign Minister of Nepal, mentioned that this diplomatic action was taken after consultations with various political parties within the country. The government has made its official stance clear to both India and China regarding this sensitive issue.

Nepal has consistently urged India to refrain from proceeding with road construction, expansion, border trade, or any pilgrimage-related activities in areas that are subject to dispute. The government expressed that it has raised these concerns on numerous occasions in the past.

Desire for Dialogue and Resolution

Despite sharpening its objection, Nepal has indicated its willingness to pursue a diplomatic resolution regarding the border issue. The Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated its commitment to addressing the boundary dispute “in keeping with the spirit of close and friendly Nepal-India relations.” This includes resolving the matter through historical facts, evidence, and diplomatic dialogue.

The latest diplomatic protest from Nepal adds a new dimension to the ongoing boundary dispute between the nations, reiterating Kathmandu’s claims while simultaneously calling for negotiations to resolve outstanding differences. The dispute primarily revolves around the regions of Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura, which Nepal regards as part of its territory under the historical context of the Sugauli Treaty.

As the situation unfolds, both Nepal and India may need to engage in further discussions to avoid misunderstandings and to promote goodwill between the two nations. Nepal’s stance underscores the broader implications of territorial integrity and diplomatic relations, emphasising the need for continued dialogue amidst rising tensions.

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