Nepal Airlines Map Row: Airline Apologises After Showing J&K as Part of Pakistan

State-owned carrier Nepal Airlines has issued an apology after a social media post featuring its network map incorrectly showed the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as part of Pakistan, triggering widespread backlash.

The controversy erupted after the airline shared the map online, which quickly went viral and drew sharp criticism from Indian users across platforms. Many called for diplomatic intervention, urging the Ministry of External Affairs to take up the matter.

As outrage grew, hashtags like #BoycottNepalAirlines began trending, with several users questioning whether the depiction was an error or a deliberate move. Public figures, including Bhojpuri actor-singer Khesarilal Yadav, also criticised the airline over the issue.

Responding to the backlash, Nepal Airlines deleted the post within 24 hours and issued an official apology, calling the depiction a “cartographic inaccuracy.” The airline clarified that the map did not reflect its official stance or that of the Nepalese government.

“We sincerely apologise for the error in the network map. The map contained significant inaccuracies regarding international boundaries,” the airline said in a statement, adding that an internal review has been initiated.

The airline further emphasised that it values its relationship with regional partners and regretted any offence caused by the post.

The incident comes at a time when Nepal Airlines is looking to expand its operations in India, including increasing flight frequency on the Kathmandu–Delhi route.

The episode highlights the sensitivity of territorial representations involving India and Pakistan, where such inaccuracies often lead to diplomatic and public reactions.