Nepal PM Acknowledges Territorial Encroachments Amid Border Dispute

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah caused a stir in Parliament on Sunday when he stated that Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory. This public acknowledgment marks a significant development in the ongoing border dispute between Nepal and India, particularly concerning the Kalapani region, which both countries claim. Shah's comments were made during a parliamentary session, where he was responding to questions regarding the contentious Lipulekh Pass. He remarked, "You might find it strange, but I also learned only recently — after becoming Prime Minister — that it’s not just India but Nepal too has encroached upon Indian territories in many places." His statements prompted immediate backlash from opposition lawmakers, who sought clarification on the Prime Minister's remarks and demanded their removal from the official record. Basana Thapa, Chief Whip of the Nepali Congress, questioned, "Where exactly has this happened? The Prime Minister must make the House aware of this. This is a serious and objectionable statement." Another opposition member, Ramesh Malla of the Nepal Communist Party, expressed concern that Shah's comments could undermine national integrity, emphasising the gravity of the issue. Shah's address to Parliament marked his first since taking office on March 27, following elections earlier that month. He had previously faced criticism for not addressing the Parliament adequately, having walked out on important sessions. However, on Sunday, he actively engaged with lawmakers and stated that the border disputes would be resolved through dialogue. The mention of territorial encroachment coincided with a backdrop of heightened tensions between Nepal and India, sparked by India's resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage via the Lipulekh route. This route is significant not only for its religious importance but also as a strategic artery for trade between India and China. The Lipulekh Pass has been a focal point of contention since Nepal's government issued a political map in 2020 asserting its claims over the disputed territories, amidst a backdrop of increasing nationalist sentiments in Nepal. Shah also addressed diplomatic communications with multiple countries, including the United Kingdom. He pointed out that the historical roots of the dispute trace back to the British colonial era, saying, "We have spoken not only with India and China but also with the UK government. Our view is that the UK should also take an interest, as the issue dates back to the period when British India left the region." In a subsequent comment, he reaffirmed that all disputes will be discussed with New Delhi through diplomatic channels. The Prime Minister's admission regarding territorial encroachment has raised eyebrows among border experts, who argue that no substantiated evidence supports the claim that Nepal has encroached upon Indian territory. In recent months, the border tensions have escalated, leading to public and political discourse surrounding national identity and territorial integrity. As the situation develops, the focus remains on how both nations will navigate these complex historical and geopolitical issues. As of now, this development reflects the intricate balance of diplomacy and domestic pressure that shape Nepal's approach to its longstanding border disputes with India.