Nepal lawmakers have 72 hours to propose amendments over map bill

Nepal's Lower House on Tuesday unanimously endorsed a proposal seeking consideration of a Constitution Amendment Bill for change of country's map after a lengthy discussion. The proposal "Constitution of Nepal (Second Amendment) Bill 2077" relates to a new map of the country that includes Indian areas of Kalapani, Limpiyadhura and Lipulekh.

Kathmandu: Nepal's lawmakers have 72 hours to suggest amendments over a newly endorsed Constitution Amendment Bill in its lower house. The bill seeks to adopt a new map of the country which includes Indian areas of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.

Nepal's Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shivamaya Tumbahangphe had on May 30 tabled the bill for discussions in the Parliament to update the country's map and amend the Constitution.

On May 28, India had said that it was open to engage with Nepal on the basis of mutual respect and in an environment of trust to resolve the boundary issue. This came after Kathmandu had issued a new political map which included Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani, areas which have been part of the Indian territory.

The latest border dispute between the countries began over India's inauguration last month of a Himalayan link road built in Lipu Lekh Himalayan pass that lies at a strategic three-way junction with Tibet and China.

The 80-kilometer (50-mile) road, inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cuts through the Lipu Lekh Himalayan pass, considered one of the shortest and most feasible trade routes between India and China.

IANS