India has rejected Nepal’s objection to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route via Lipulekh, saying its position on the issue remains “clear and consistent” and rejecting Kathmandu’s territorial claims.
“Lipulekh Pass has been a long-standing route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954. This is not a new development,” India's External Affairs Ministry said on May 3.
On Nepal’s claims, India said, “Such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Such unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable.”
The response comes after Nepal formally objected to the proposed pilgrimage route via Lipulekh, sending a diplomatic protest to both India and China. Kathmandu said the move concerns a disputed area and reiterated its long-standing claim over the region.
“The Government of Nepal remains clear and firm that, as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudyal Chhetri said Nepal conveyed its concerns to both New Delhi and Beijing through diplomatic channels.
