MPs stress on diplomatic efforts to tackle Lipulek issues

Kathmandu, May 7: The parliamentary committee is advocating for effective diplomatic strategies to reclaim Lipulek, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura through dialogue.     

In today’s meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives, members expressed that the 'diplomatic note' sent by the Government of Nepal to both India and China regarding Lipulek was a positive step.     

Committee member Pramesh Kumar Hamal highlighted the necessity for the current government to make significant diplomatic moves to recover the encroached Kalapani territory. Another member, Bhumika Limbu Subba, pointed out that the committee's initiative is crucial for reclaiming the encroached Nepali land while keeping balanced relations with both neighboring countries, India and China.     

She firmly stated that historical facts and evidence clearly show that the land belongs to Nepal, and the responses from its neighbors regarding Kalapani, Lipulek, and Limpiyadhura are simply unacceptable. Regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, reportedly to be organized through Lipulek, the Government of Nepal has conveyed its clear position and concerns to both India and China through diplomatic channels.     

In the past, the Government of Nepal has consistently urged India to avoid activities like road construction, expansion, border trade, and pilgrimage in that area. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that China has been officially informed that the Lipulek area is part of Nepali territory. Committee member Shridhar Pokharel called for the creation of a high-level mechanism to reclaim Nepal's land and to boost diplomatic efforts. MP Shiv Shankar Yadav emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interests in these discussions.     

Member of Parliament Ambikadevi Sangraula suggested that trade, transportation and border should be streamlined while smoothing relations with neighbors.     

Lawmaker Bina Gurung drew the attention of the federal and provincial governments to arrange for 'zebra- crossing' on the roadside walls to make Pokhara more beautiful and orderly as a tourist city. The chairperson of the committee, Sumnima Udas, informed the meeting about the jurisdiction of the committee and the future course of action.     

In the meeting, the draft internal procedure of the committee was distributed to the members for study.(RSS)