Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage Dispute: India Rejects Nepal's Claims, Emphasizes Diplomatic Resolution India has firmly rejected Nepal's recent claims over the Lipulekh Pass, asserting that the dispute over the strategic mountain pass must be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic engagement. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs clarified that Nepal's unilateral expansionist assertions lack historical or evidentiary support, and such demands cannot be entertained. This comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations over the long-standing border issue, which has been a point of contention for decades. The Lipulekh Pass, a critical route for the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, has been a subject of dispute between India and Nepal. Nepal has consistently argued that the pass falls under its jurisdiction, citing historical claims. However, India maintains that the pass has been a traditional and continuous route for pilgrims since 1954, with thousands of devotees traveling through it annually. The Indian government reiterated its stance that any unilateral changes to the border by Nepal are invalid and that the matter must be addressed through bilateral negotiations. In a separate development, China has announced its approval for 1,000 Indian pilgrims to undertake the 2026 Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The decision, made public by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, highlights the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties between India and China while promoting religious harmony. The pilgrimage, scheduled for June and August 2026, will be organized in 10 batches, with pilgrims traveling through the Lipulekh Pass and the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. This arrangement is seen as a significant step toward fostering mutual trust and cooperation between the two nations.#nepal #india #china #lipulekh_pass #kailash_mansarovar_pilgrimage
