New Delhi, 07 May (H.S.):

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has firmly rejected Nepal's claims regarding the operation of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Lipulekh route, reiterating its longstanding position. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra issue is not a new matter.

During the weekly media briefing, he said, We have already issued a press note on this subject. The Mansarovar Yatra has been conducted since 1954. This is not a new issue.

A few days ago, following the decision by India and China to commence Kailash Mansarovar Yatra operations via Lipulekh, Nepal sent diplomatic notes to both countries expressing objections. India immediately responded stating it is an old, ongoing matter while expressing readiness for dialogue with Nepal.

In 2015, India and China signed an agreement permitting trade and pilgrim passage through Lipulekh, prompting Nepal to register formal protest through diplomatic channels. Neither India nor China issued formal responses at that time. China has not yet provided any official reaction to Nepal's current objections.

Nepal claims that under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty between Nepal and British India, the territory east of Mahakali River belongs to Nepal. According to Nepal, the Mahakali River originating from Limpiyadhura constitutes the actual border river, placing Lipulekh within Nepal's jurisdiction.

This issue has long been viewed as a sensitive border dispute involving Nepal, India, and China. Nepal has consistently maintained that any use of its territory for bilateral agreements requires Nepal's permission and participation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar