India has officially responded to Nepal's concerns regarding the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route via the Lipulekh Pass, reiterating its long-standing territorial position. The statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs comes shortly after the Government of Nepal issued a formal press note on Sunday, expressing serious attention to the bilateral agreement between India and China to utilize this specific gateway.
During a press briefing on Sunday, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized that the Lipulekh Pass has functioned as a traditional transit point for pilgrims since 1954. India maintains that the recent activity is not a new development but a continuation of historical practice. The spokesperson further clarified that New Delhi views unilateral territorial claims as lacking historical evidence and factual backing, labeling such expansions as practically unacceptable.
Despite the firm stance on the boundary, India signaled an opening for further engagement. The official statement highlighted New Delhi's commitment to maintaining constructive bilateral ties with Kathmandu. India expressed its willingness to address outstanding border-related issues through established diplomatic channels and dialogue.
This exchange underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding the Lipulekh region, which remains a central point of contention in the diplomatic relations between the two neighbors. As both nations reaffirm their respective stances, the focus remains on whether upcoming diplomatic talks can provide a sustainable resolution to the boundary disagreement.
