Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah has taken several decisions linked to India. Since becoming Prime Minister on March 27, he has made four moves in 45 days. Many observers consider these decisions anti-India. Moreover, his latest border rule has raised fresh concern.
New Rule For Indian Visitors
Balen Shah has announced a strict rule for the India-Nepal border. Under this rule, Indians travelling to Nepal must carry identity cards at all times. They must also pass necessary security checks. Earlier, people near the Indian border could enter Nepal easily.
Open Border Comes Under New Pressure
India and Nepal share a 1,751-kilometre open border. Therefore, the new rule affects routine cross-border movement. Now, Indian citizens cannot enter Nepal without checks. As a result, the change has added tension around border access.
Vikram Misri Visit Gets Cancelled
On Sunday, reports from Nepal said Balen refused to meet India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. After this, Misri’s Nepal visit got cancelled. Misri planned to visit Nepal this week. The visit aimed to strengthen foreign policy ties between Nepal and India.
Balen Wanted Only Counterpart Talks
According to Kathmandu Post, Balen Shah wanted meetings only with his counterpart. Because of this position, Misri’s trip could not move ahead. However, India has not issued any official comment on the matter. This episode added another layer to the diplomatic uncertainty.
Old Anti-India Image Returns
Balen already carried an old anti-India political image. In 2022, he shared a Greater Nepal map. Later, as Kathmandu mayor, he stopped Adipurush from releasing in local cinemas. However, after he became Prime Minister, many expected better ties with India.
Recent Decisions Deepen Suspense
Still, his recent actions have deepened suspense over India-Nepal relations. First, he revived the old Lipulekh-Kalapani dispute. Then, he announced tighter border rules. Additionally, his government imposed customs on certain goods from India.
Kalapani And Lipulekh Row Returns
Balen Shah raised the old Kalapani and Lipulekh issue again. He spoke in response to China’s advisory on the Mansarovar Yatra. He said Nepal had not given any consent on the matter. Nepal has long claimed the Kalapani areas.
KP Oli-Era Map Mentioned
During KP Oli’s time, Nepal changed its map over this dispute. India’s Ministry of External Affairs also commented on Balen’s step. The ministry called it a move that deliberately creates controversy. Therefore, the old border question has returned to focus.
Customs Rule Hits Border Residents
People from India earlier bought essential goods for Madhesh residents in Nepal’s Terai region. This helped them avoid a stronger impact from inflation. However, Balen’s government introduced a new customs rule. Now, goods worth more than Rs 100 from India attract customs.
Terai Citizens Face Trouble
Because of this rule, citizens living near the border face serious difficulties. The change affects people who depended on small cross-border purchases. Moreover, the customs move has become another point of concern in India-Nepal ties.
Four Decisions Shape The Debate
In 45 days, Balen Shah has refused the Misri meeting, revived Kalapani-Lipulekh, imposed customs, and tightened border entry. Together, these decisions have changed the tone around India-Nepal relations. Therefore, his government’s next steps will draw close attention.
