KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has accused the government of showing indifference towards safeguarding national interests, particularly on the disputed territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Shishir Khanal, chief of RSP’s International Relations Department, said the government’s approach had left the party suspicious of its intent.
The party demanded that Prime Minister KP Oli raise the border issue with “clarity and firmness” during his upcoming visits to India and China.
Citing Nepal’s Constitution, the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, and subsequent agreements, the RSP reiterated that the disputed territories were an inseparable part of Nepal’s sovereign territory. “Historical, geographical, political, and legal evidence clearly establish Nepal’s claim,” the statement said.
The party expressed serious concern over a recent agreement between India and China to reopen traditional border trade through the Lipulekh Pass without Nepal’s direct involvement. “This raises questions about the government’s willingness to defend Nepal’s sovereignty,” the statement noted.
RSP stressed that national integrity, sovereignty, and territorial independence were the supreme responsibility of the state. It warned that any activity or agreement involving Nepal’s territory without its participation or consent cannot be considered valid.
The party further stressed that disputes must be resolved not through partisan politics but via diplomatic, peaceful, and effective means, and pledged to cooperate with the government to safeguard national interests.
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