Nepal's Claim to Disputed Territories on Currency Notes
Background:
Nepal has printed a map on its currency notes showing disputed territories with India. This has escalated tensions between the two countries, as Nepal has long claimed ownership of these areas based on historical and geographic evidence.
Areas in Dispute:
- Kalapani
- Lipulekh
- Limpiyadhura
Nepal's Arguments:
Nepal's claims are based on historical treaties and maps:
- The Sugauli Treaty of 1816 between Nepal and British India established the Mahakali River as the boundary between the two countries.
- Nepalese maps from the 19th century consistently show the disputed areas as part of Nepal.
- Nepal contends that India has encroached upon these territories over time.
India's Position:
India disputes Nepal's claims and asserts that:
- The Sugauli Treaty placed the disputed areas within British India and not Nepal.
- India has administrative control over these areas for many years.
- The borders between Nepal and India were officially demarcated in 1962.
International Reactions:
The international community has generally refrained from taking sides in the dispute.
- In 2019, the United States stated that it recognized Nepal's sovereignty and territorial integrity but also noted India's longstanding administrative control over the disputed areas.
- The United Kingdom has called for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels.
Ongoing Negotiations:
Nepal and India have held several rounds of talks to resolve the dispute peacefully.
- In 2014, they formed a joint technical committee to study the boundary issue.
- However, negotiations have been slow and inconclusive.
Conclusion:
The dispute over the disputed territories between Nepal and India remains unresolved. Both countries have strong claims based on historical and geographic evidence. The international community has urged a diplomatic solution, but tensions continue to simmer as both sides hold firm to their positions.
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