Lipulekh Dispute: Only National Unity and Diplomacy Can Deliver

A fresh diplomatic row has erupted between Nepal and India after New Delhi and Beijing agreed to reopen border trade through Lipulekh—a Himalayan pass that passes through Nepal’s sovereign territory. On Wednesday evening, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) issued a firm three-point statement, reiterating that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal as enshrined in the Constitution and official map. The MoFA urged the Indian side not to carry out road construction, expansion and cross-border trade in the area and reminded both India and China that all land east of the Mahakali River belongs to Nepal under the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli. According to Kathmandu, the river originates at Limpiyadhura, placing Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura firmly within Nepali territory. Historical records support Nepal’s claim: locals of Gunji, Nabhi and Kuti paid land tax to Nepal until 1978 and government archives preserve receipts and ownership documents. Even a 1911 British-Indian Gazetteer identifies Kuthi-Yankti i.e. Kali River—originating from Limpiyadhura—as the true source of the Kali River, further validating Nepal’s stance.