Nepal Prime Minister Alleges Mutual Territorial Encroachment with India

Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah recently raised eyebrows in the country’s Parliament by asserting that both Kathmandu and New Delhi have encroached upon each other’s territories. His comments, reported by The Kathmandu Post, highlight the long-standing complexities of land disputes between the two nations.

During a parliamentary session, Shah addressed concerns regarding the contentious region of Kalapani-Limpiadhura-Lipulekh, which has been at the center of a territorial disagreement for years. The Prime Minister stated, “Upon assuming office, I discovered that not only has India encroached upon Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached upon India’s land in multiple locations.” This statement is significant, as it marks a shift in the narrative surrounding the historical claims and counterclaims between the two countries.

Shah’s remarks come at a time when the Kalapani region, claimed by both nations, remains a flashpoint in India-Nepal relations. India asserts that this area is part of its Uttarakhand state and has consistently rejected Kathmandu’s territorial claims. However, Shah did not specify the Indian territories that Nepal allegedly occupies, leaving room for potential diplomatic tensions.

In his address, Shah emphasized the need for collaborative discussions to resolve these disputes amicably. He mentioned, “New Delhi and Kathmandu have agreed to engage in dialogue with historians, surveyors, and other relevant experts to settle the matter through diplomatic channels.” This approach indicates a willingness from both sides to explore peaceful resolutions instead of escalating tensions.

Furthermore, Shah revealed that the Nepalese government had formally communicated with India through a diplomatic note, highlighting concerns over territorial encroachments, including the Lipulekh area. According to Shah, Nepal has already received a response from India regarding this note. This diplomatic engagement suggests that both countries are aware of the need to address these long-standing issues, even if the specifics remain contentious.

Adding another layer to the complex situation, Shah mentioned that discussions have also been held with China, given the strategic location of the region near the trijunction of India, Tibet, and Nepal. He expressed a view that the United Kingdom should also take an interest in the matter, referencing the historical context of the territorial disputes that date back to the colonial era when British interests influenced regional boundaries.

This latest declaration by Nepal’s Prime Minister signals a pivotal moment in bilateral relations between India and Nepal. As both nations navigate these territorial claims, the emphasis remains on utilizing diplomatic avenues to foster understanding and cooperation.

Source: scroll.in