Why in the news?
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah stated in Parliament that Nepal has also “encroached upon Indian territory in many places,” triggering political controversy in Nepal.
Key Highlights
- The statement was made while discussing the disputed:
- Kalapani
- Lipulekh
- Limpiyadhura regions.
- Opposition lawmakers in Nepal demanded clarification and removal of the remarks from parliamentary records.
India-Nepal Border Dispute
Main disputed areas:
- Kalapani: A strategic Himalayan region near the India-Nepal-China trijunction.
- Lipulekh Pass: Important trade and Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route.
- Limpiyadhura: Claimed by Nepal as part of its territory.
Background of the Dispute
- The dispute intensified after:
- India released a new political map in 2019.
- Nepal amended its Constitution in 2020 to include the disputed regions in its official map.
- Nepal bases its claims mainly on interpretations of the: Treaty of Sugauli (1816).
What is Dasgaja?
- “Dasgaja” refers to the no man’s land along the India-Nepal border.
- Nepal’s Foreign Ministry later clarified that the PM’s remarks referred mainly to:
- Cross border occupation
- Technical boundary irregularities in riverine areas.
Treaty of Sugauli (1816)
- Signed between the East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal.
- Signed after the Anglo-Nepal War.
- Importance: Forms the basis of the present India-Nepal boundary disputes.
India’s Position
- India maintains that:
- Lipulekh lies within Indian territory.
- It is a historic trade and pilgrimage route.
- India supports resolving disputes through diplomatic dialogue.
[2020] Consider the following statements:
1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade
2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
