The Government of Nepal has expressed its objection to the operation of a route passing through the Nepali territory of Lipulekh, which connects India and China. This route is primarily used by Indian pilgrims traveling to Kailash Mansarovar.
"The Government of Nepal is fully clear and firm on the fact that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani, located east of the Mahakali River, are integral parts of Nepal as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty," reads a six-point press note issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday evening.
Nepal has consistently requested that no activities—such as road construction or expansion, border trade, or pilgrimages—be conducted in that area.
Full text of the press note:
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ attention has been drawn to various media inquiries and concerns regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which is reportedly being operated between India and China via the Nepali territory of Lipulekh.
- The Government of Nepal is fully clear and firm on the fact that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani, located east of the Mahakali River, are integral parts of Nepal according to the 1816 Sugauli Treaty.
- Regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra intended to be organized through the Nepali territory of Lipulekh, the Government of Nepal has once again conveyed its clear stance and concerns to both India and China through diplomatic channels.
- Previously as well, the Government of Nepal has consistently urged the Government of India not to carry out any activities, such as road construction or expansion, border trade, and pilgrimages in the said area.
- Furthermore, it is clarified that friendly nation China has also been officially informed that the Lipulekh area is Nepali territory.
- In accordance with the spirit and sentiment of the close and friendly relations between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains committed to resolving border issues through diplomatic means based on historical treaties, facts, maps, and evidence.
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