The reopening of trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass has sparked a fresh wave of controversy in South Asia. Nepal has formally objected to this development, claiming that the pass and adjoining Kalapani region belong to its sovereign territory. India, however, has dismissed the objection, arguing that trade through the pass is a long-standing practice dating back decades. This issue once again brings to light the delicate geopolitical balance at the India–Nepal–China tri-junction.

What is the Lipulekh Pass?

The Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude Himalayan mountain pass located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, connecting India to Tibet (China). It also lies close to the borders of Nepal, which is why it has become a disputed point of interest.

Apart from its strategic importance, the pass is a crucial route for Kailash–Manasarovar Yatra pilgrims and has historically served as a trading corridor for local communities.

Nepal’s Objection

Nepal has raised strong objections to the India–China decision to resume trade through Lipulekh. According to Kathmandu:

  • The Kalapani–Lipulekh–Limpiyadhura region belongs to Nepal.

  • The trade agreement between India and China was made without Nepal’s consent, ignoring its territorial claims.

  • Nepal bases its stance on the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli, signed between Nepal and the British, which it says places the disputed region within its borders.

Nepal’s Parliament in 2020 even passed a new political map including this territory, further escalating tensions with New Delhi.

India’s Response

India has firmly rejected Nepal’s objection. New Delhi emphasizes that:

  • Trade through Lipulekh is not a new arrangement, but a practice going on since 1954.

  • The route has been traditionally used for commerce and pilgrimages to Tibet.

  • The reopening of trade after disruptions due to COVID-19 and border tensions is a continuation of past agreements with China, not an encroachment on Nepal’s sovereignty.

India views Nepal’s protest as politically motivated and not grounded in historical trade practices.

The Geopolitical Angle

The Lipulekh Pass dispute is more than just a border disagreement—it reflects the complex triangular relationship between India, Nepal, and China.

  • India–China: Despite border tensions in other areas like Ladakh, both nations continue selective cooperation, such as reopening this trade route.

  • India–Nepal: Relations have soured in recent years, particularly after Nepal’s new political map in 2020. The Lipulekh issue has further strained ties.

  • Nepal–China: Kathmandu often leans on Beijing to counterbalance India’s influence, making the dispute even more sensitive.

Why It Matters

  1. Sovereignty Concerns – Nepal sees the move as a violation of its territorial integrity.

  2. Strategic Importance – The pass is located at a critical Himalayan tri-junction, giving it immense military and trade value.

  3. Regional Stability – Any escalation could worsen relations in a region already facing India–China border tensions.



Conclusion

The reopening of the Lipulekh Pass trade route highlights the long-standing territorial disputes in the Himalayas. While India views it as a routine and historical trade practice, Nepal considers it an infringement on its sovereignty. Unless addressed through diplomatic dialogue, the issue risks further straining the delicate balance in South Asian geopolitics.