India Reiterates Stance on Lipulekh Route, Emphasizes Dialogue for Border Issues

New Delhi, May 4: In response to comments from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indian Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified India’s position on border issues. He stated that India’s stance has always been clear and consistent, emphasizing readiness to resolve all matters through dialogue and diplomacy.

Regarding the comments related to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Jaiswal wrote on the social media platform ‘X’, “India’s position on this matter has always been clear and consistent. The Lipulekh Pass has been an old and utilized route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954, and this journey has been ongoing for several decades. This is not a new development.”

On the issue of border claims, India has consistently maintained that such claims are neither accurate nor based on historical facts and evidence. Unilateral claims to expand borders cannot be accepted.

India is always prepared for dialogue and cooperation on all issues with Nepal, including the pending and agreed-upon border matters to be resolved through discussions and diplomacy.

Last week, China announced that it would facilitate the travel of 1,000 Indian pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026. This is a significant step towards bilateral cooperation and religious exchange between the two countries.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the pilgrimage will be conducted in groups through two established routes — the Lipulekh Pass and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. A total of 10 groups will undertake the journey, each consisting of 50 pilgrims.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, considered one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, is scheduled to take place between June and August 2026.

However, Nepal has long claimed the area around the Lipulekh Pass, arguing that India and China cannot make decisions regarding the use of this region without Nepal’s consent. The Lipulekh Pass is one of three points located in the Kalapani area.

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