Reflecting growing resentment among neighbours over New Delhi’s unilateral expansionist moves, Nepal has formally objected to India’s plan to conduct the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass and lodged a diplomatic protest.   Nepal’s foreign ministry said Lipulekh and surrounding areas are its territory under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. “Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” the ministry stated, reiterating a position it has raised repeatedly with both India and China.   

This is Nepal’s second protest since August last year when India and China opened a trade route via the same disputed mountainous region. India last week announced the pilgrimage to Mansarovar with one route through Lipulekh Pass, located near the India-Nepal-China trijunction.   Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said the protest followed consultations with political parties and Nepal’s stance has been formally communicated.

Kathmandu has long urged India not to undertake road construction, border trade or pilgrimage activity in the area, calling the matter sensitive.  While reaffirming commitment to resolve the boundary issue through “historical facts, evidence and diplomatic dialogue,” Nepal’s move signals mounting frustration in the region over India’s actions in disputed territories.  The dispute stems from the Sugauli Treaty signed after the Anglo-Gurkha war, which Nepal cites to claim Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)