Kalapani dispute has opened a new front on the India-Nepal international border. Explain.

Historical Context and the Kalapani Dispute

The root of the dispute lies in differing interpretations of the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli, signed between the British East India Company and Nepal. Nepal claims that the territory east of the Kali River, including Kalapani, belongs to it. India, however, maintains that the river’s source lies in Kalapani and that the territory has been under its administrative control for over a century. Historically, the area was inhabited by nomadic communities with fluid boundaries, making a precise demarcation challenging.

The Lipulekh Road and Escalation of Tensions

The inauguration of the 80-km road to Lipulekh in May 2020 proved to be a turning point. Nepal protested strongly, issuing a new map in June 2020 incorporating Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limiypadhura – areas it claims as its own. This act significantly broadened the dispute, moving it beyond the Kalapani plateau to include the origin of the Kali River itself. Nepal argued that the road construction was a unilateral attempt to alter the status quo.

New Fronts in the Border Dispute

The Kalapani dispute has opened new fronts in several ways:

• Dispute over the Kali River’s Origin: The core disagreement now centers on identifying the true source of the Kali River. Nepal asserts that the river originates from Limiypadhura, while India maintains it originates from Kalapani.
• Territorial Claims Expansion: Nepal’s revised map and claims extend beyond Kalapani to include areas previously not explicitly contested.
• Increased Political Polarization: The issue has fueled nationalist sentiments in both countries, making a resolution more difficult.
• Impact on Bilateral Projects: The dispute has cast a shadow over other ongoing bilateral projects and cooperation initiatives.

Impact on India-Nepal Relations

The Kalapani dispute has strained India-Nepal relations, leading to a period of diplomatic tension. Nepal has accused India of disregarding its sovereignty and engaging in expansionist activities. This has resulted in:

• Suspicion and Mistrust: Increased levels of suspicion and mistrust between the two governments.
• Reduced Cooperation: A slowdown in bilateral cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, and security.
• China Factor: The dispute has also been viewed through the lens of China’s growing influence in Nepal, with some analysts suggesting that Nepal is leaning towards China due to the strained relationship with India.

Attempts at Resolution

Several rounds of talks have been held between India and Nepal to resolve the dispute. However, progress has been limited due to the fundamental differences in their positions. A Joint Technical Team (JTT) was formed to study the historical maps and documents, but its findings have not led to a breakthrough. The issue remains a sensitive one, requiring careful diplomacy and a willingness to compromise from both sides.