Yamnath Ghimire Urges Global Action on Nepal’s Border Dispute with India and China

Kathmandu — Prominent reformist leader and public figure Yamnath Ghimire has issued a powerful international appeal calling for urgent intervention in Nepal’s long-standing border dispute over the Lipulekh–Limpiyadhura region. The appeal, addressed to global institutions including the United Nations and the International Court of Justice, demands recognition of Nepal’s sovereign rights and a trilateral resolution involving India, China, and Nepal.

Ghimire’s statement comes amid renewed tensions following India and China’s bilateral agreement to resume trade through Lipulekh—an area historically and legally claimed by Nepal. The move has sparked widespread criticism in Nepal, with many viewing it as a violation of the country’s territorial integrity.

“Nepal’s land is Nepal’s soul. Its protection is a global responsibility,” Ghimire declared in his appeal, urging the formation of a trilateral technical committee to demarcate the disputed tri-junction point.

Historical Claims and Diplomatic Gaps
Nepal’s claim to the region is backed by the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli and the 1961 Nepal–China Border Agreement, both of which identify the Mahakali River’s source—Limpiyadhura—as the western boundary of Nepal. Despite this, India has constructed infrastructure through the area and entered into trade agreements with China, excluding Nepal from the dialogue.

China, for its part, has distanced itself from the dispute, stating that the Lipulekh issue is a bilateral matter between India and Nepal.

️ Political Momentum Builds
Ghimire’s appeal has added momentum to calls for international mediation. He emphasized that sovereignty is not negotiable and warned against the marginalization of smaller nations in global geopolitics.

The appeal also calls for the international recognition of historical maps and treaties, and urges global institutions to uphold fairness and justice in resolving the dispute.

What’s Next?
With Nepal preparing to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026, leaders like Ghimire argue that territorial integrity must be safeguarded as part of the nation’s development journey. The appeal is expected to be circulated among diplomatic missions and advocacy platforms in the coming weeks.

For more on China’s position regarding the Lipulekh dispute, you can refer to this report.