Nepal politics has got one uncomfortable twist now,with Prime Minister Balendra Shah openly saying something many leaders usually avoid saying directly . And honestly,when border issue with India is already so sensitive,this kind of statement was always going to create noise.
During his first address to Nepal Parliament,Shah faced questions on India's claims over disputed regions of Limpiyadhura,Lipulekh,and Kalapani . These areas have been under Indian control for decades,and in Nepal,this topic is not small thing ah.
But what really caught attention was his admission that issue is not one-sided only . Prime Minister Shah stated,"After becoming Prime Minister,I came to know that not only has India encroached on Nepal's land, but Nepal has also encroached on India's land in multiple places."
And tbh,this is where political temperature went up immediately . Because saying India encroached on Nepal's land is one thing in Nepal politics,but admitting Nepal also encroached on India's land in multiple places is different level statement.
Opposition lawmakers have now started demanding clarification and accountability . Main problem is,Shah did not specify where exactly Nepal has allegedly encroached on India's land,so naturally that part has raised more eyebrows.
Few things standing out clearly here:
- Shah said border disputes would be resolved through discussions between both governments .
- Both sides will form teams of historians and surveyors to look into territorial issues.
- Nepal has also held discussions with UK authorities regarding border dispute.
Another sensitive point came around recent agreement between India and China on Indian pilgrims travelling to Kailash Mansarovar through disputed Lipulekh area . Shah said Nepal had sent official diplomatic note to India and also received response.
He indicated that both countries would work together to resolve border disputes through collaborative efforts . On paper,this sounds like calmer approach,but politically inside Nepal,it can easily be seen as risky softness towards India .
And timing is also interesting because remarks come ahead of expected India visit by Rabi Lamichhane,the President of ruling Rastryiya Swatantra Party (RSP),scheduled for June 1-2 . So naturally,people will connect this statement with wider Nepal-India talks.
Honestly,this may be Shah trying to open more balanced dialogue instead of just repeating old political lines . But in border disputes,one sentence can travel very far,and now question is whether this openness will help talks or create more trouble at home…
