Author: Arif Rafiq
Affiliation: Vizier Consulting
Organizer/Publisher: Al Jazeera
Date/Place: July 29, 2020/Doha
Type of Literature: Article
Word Count: 1769
Link:https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/nepal-walking-tightrope-india-china-200728102536128.html
Keywords: Nepal, India, Border dispute, China
Brief:
The author discusses the political and diplomatic turmoil unfolding in Nepal domestically as well as in its immediate neighbourhood involving India. The debate over the disputed border has strained relations between India and Nepal. The Prime Minister of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli took a defiant stance against the link road built by India in the disputed territory involving China and Nepal. Adding to Delhi’s agony, Oli devised a new map which placed the disputed region under Nepal’s jurisdiction and passed it through both the houses of the Parliament. Moreover, copies of the new map were sent to India, the United Nations and many other countries, in a bid to gain acknowledgement from the International community. The move has had differential impact domestically and internationally. While Oli consolidated his support domestically, his rivals within the party have been critical about him. Former prime minister and Oli’s arch-rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal (also known as ‘Prachanda’) has accused him of using the border dispute to stir nationalist sentiments and using it against his opposition. New-Delhi has likewise strongly criticised his stance on the border dispute. The Indian Army Chief termed Oli’s actions as instigation from the Chinese, and the Indian media has relentlessly attacked Oli for his alleged pro-China stance. While Kathmandu denies these allegations, it nevertheless has a tough road ahead. With Nepal already in the midst of domestic crisis, it can hardly afford to pick a fight with a huge neighbour in India. Although it may have China by its side, the weak domestic situation makes Nepal vulnerable and Oli’s government open to manipulation by the regional powers.
By: Usman Khan Pathan, CIGA Research Associate
