KATHMANDU, NEPAL – In the wake of Nepali Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s expected visit to Nepal on May 11-12, Kathmandu has expressed concerns to New Delhi and Beijing regarding the contentious issue of Lipulekh Pass. The border pass has been a point of contention between Nepal and India for years, with both countries claiming sovereignty over it.
Nepal has reiterated its territorial claim to the Lipulekh Pass, which is strategically located near the Nepal-India border. The Nepali government has expressed concerns that the Indian government’s decision to open the pass as a road route will negatively impact the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage circuit for Hindus and Buddhists.
In a meeting with Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Dr. Narayan Khadka expressed concerns over the opening of Lipulekh Pass as a road route. He urged India to reconsider its decision, citing potential disruptions to the yatra and the impact on the environment.
On the other hand, the Indian government has stated that the Lipulekh Pass has been a long-standing route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra since 1954. The Indian side of the border pass is believed to be around 1 km from the Nepal-India border point, and the opening of the road route is expected to facilitate easier access to the yatra.
However, Nepali officials argue that the opening of Lipulekh Pass as a road route will not only disrupt the yatra but also undermine Nepal’s sovereignty over its territory. The Nepali government has also expressed concerns that the Indian government’s decision may set a precedent for other border disputes between the two countries.
The visit to Nepal by Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla comes at a time when tensions between New Delhi and Kathmandu are running high. While India continues to provide significant economic aid to Nepal, its policies on issues like border disputes and infrastructure development have been seen as restrictive by many in the Nepalese capital.
It remains unclear whether Foreign Secretary Shringla will get to meet with Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba during his visit. The Indian side has maintained that the visit is primarily focused on diplomatic engagement and trade talks, leaving room for any potential meetings with high-ranking officials from Nepal.
As the Indian government prepares to host Nepali leaders, the fate of Lipulekh Pass remains a contentious issue that could impact India-Nepal relations. With tensions simmering on the border, both countries will need to navigate this complex issue carefully to avoid further escalation.
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