Jaishankar Criticises Nepal's Inclusion of Indian Areas on New Currency Note, says 'Won't Change Ground Reality'

 Jaishankar reaffirmed India's clear stance on boundary matters with Nepal, stressing ongoing discussions through established channels

Digital Desk: In response to Nepal's announcement to feature disputed territories on its new Rs 100 currency note, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar voiced strong criticism, emphasising that Kathmandu's decision will not alter the existing situation on the ground.

“Our position is very clear. With Nepal, we are having discussions about our boundary matters through an established platform. In the middle of that, they unilaterally took some measures on their side,” Jaishankar stated, as quoted by News18.

Jaishankar reaffirmed India's clear stance on boundary matters with Nepal, stressing ongoing discussions through established channels. He expressed dismay at Nepal's unilateral action amidst ongoing dialogues.

Nepal's decision to include areas under Indian control—Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani—on the currency note was met with prior condemnation from India as artificial and untenable.

The Nepali cabinet, led by Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda', approved the redesign of the Rs 100 banknote to incorporate the new map, replacing the previous one. This move follows tensions arising from India's inauguration of a new road in 2020, which Nepal perceived as a provocation.

The decision has faced internal criticism in Nepal as well, with former diplomats and central bank governors labelling it as unwise and provocative. Chiranjibi Nepal, former Governor of Rastra Bank, highlighted the untimeliness and lack of consideration for the broader implications of the Nepal government's decision.