Nepal PM’s border remarks trigger political row, spark public debate
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has sparked controversy after stating in Parliament that not only has India allegedly encroached on Nepalese territory, but Nepal has also occupied Indian land in several places.
His remarks came during a discussion on the long-running border disputes involving Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura, areas claimed by both countries.
Shah said Nepal and India have agreed to address the issue through dialogue involving historians, surveyors, and other experts.
He also revealed that Nepal has held diplomatic discussions with China and the United Kingdom, citing the historical role of British-era border arrangements in the dispute.
However, his comments quickly triggered criticism in Nepal. Opposition lawmakers and former diplomats questioned the basis of his claim that Nepal had encroached on Indian territory, arguing that no official records support such a position.
Several political leaders demanded clarification, while experts warned that statements on sensitive border issues should be backed by evidence.
The controversy comes amid renewed tensions over the Lipulekh Pass route used for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Nepal recently objected to India’s decision to resume the pilgrimage through the disputed region, while India rejected Kathmandu’s territorial claims and reiterated that the matter should be resolved through bilateral dialogue.
