The border dispute between India and Nepal is back in the spotlight. Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah suggested bringing in external nations like China and the United Kingdom to help settle long-standing territorial disagreements. His comments during a parliamentary session have reignited discussions on the issue.
In response, an official from India’s Ministry of External Affairs stressed the need for bilateral dialogue. Both nations have frameworks in place to address all aspects of their border issues. The representative noted that nearly 98% of the boundary is already defined, reinforcing India’s stance that resolution should happen only between two countries.
Shah’s remarks,made public on May 31, 2026, pointed to historical ties to British India,claiming this should justify the U.K.'s involvement. “This problem has its roots from the era of British India, so we believe that England ought to participate in discussions regarding it,” he said. Indian officials,however, have questioned this assertion .
During a media briefing,the Ministry of External Affairs representative reiterated that there’s no reason for third-party intervention in what is essentially a bilateral issue . His statements followed Shah's acknowledgment of Nepal's encroachment on Indian territory,which has heightened tensions between two nations .
The dispute mainly involves Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani,all of which India claims are part of Uttarakhand. India stands firm on its claims despite Nepal's objections. The Ministry official pointed out that while most of the boundary is settled, challenges remain due to shifting path of the Gandak River and ongoing cross-border encroachments.
Shah's call for third-party involvement complicates an already sensitive issue as both countries work to define their disputed territories. The Indian government remains committed to resolving this matter through established diplomatic channels.
