KATHMANDU: India has rejected Nepal’s claim over the trilateral border crossing at Lipulekh. The Indian government issued the statement in response to Nepal’s remarks on Wednesday regarding the resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass.
Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, in a statement, reiterated that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal. The ministry emphasized that the government remains firm on this position, noting that these areas east of the Mahakali River are clearly marked as Nepali territory in the official map incorporated into the Constitution.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India’s position on the Lipulekh trade route is clear and has remained consistent for decades.
He noted that border trade between India and China through Lipulekh began in 1954 and has continued for decades, though it was temporarily disrupted in recent years due to Covid-19 and other developments. Both countries have now agreed to resume the trade.
Commenting on the border issue, Jaiswal said: “We have noted the comments of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal related to the resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass. Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear.”
On Nepal’s territorial claim, the Indian statement stressed: “Such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Any unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable.”
The spokesperson added that India remains open to constructive engagement with Nepal to resolve agreed outstanding boundary issues “through dialogue and diplomacy.”
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