Contentious Issues Between India and Nepal

1. Border Disputes:

• The Kalapani-Limpiyadhura region remains a significant point of contention. The 2020 release of Nepal’s new political map, which includes these areas as part of Nepal, escalated tensions. India disputes this claim, arguing that these areas are part of its territory.

2. Water Sharing Disputes:

• Disputes over the Kosi and Gandak rivers have affected bilateral relations. Issues include disagreements on the distribution of river water and flood management, impacting both nations’ agricultural and flood control efforts.

3. Political and Diplomatic Relations:

• Nepal has accused India of interfering in its domestic politics, particularly regarding internal conflicts and the role of the Indian Embassy. Conversely, India has expressed concerns over Nepal’s alignment with China.

4. Economic Issues:

• Disputes over trade and transit rights also impact relations. Issues like border trade regulations and customs duties affect economic exchanges.

Recent Example:

• The 2020 border standoff following the publication of Nepal’s new map illustrates the ongoing sensitivity and complexity of these issues.

Conclusion

India and Nepal face several contentious issues including border disputes, water sharing conflicts, political tensions, and economic disagreements. These issues are deeply rooted in historical, political, and economic contexts, requiring careful diplomatic engagement to resolve.