(a) whether there is any dispute between India and Nepal over Kalapani issue;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether certain vested interests are out to create rift between the two countries over this issue; and
(d) if so, the efforts being made to resolve the dispute amicably?
MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI JASWANT SINGH)
(a) & (b) There is a difference in perception between India and Nepal on the boundary alignment in the western sector of the India-Nepal border, where the Kalapani area is located. While both sides accept the 1815 Sugauli Treaty, according to which the Kali River forms the India-Nepal border in that region, the difference in perception is over the correct source of this river.
(c) The Government of India is aware that attempts could be made to exploit such perceived differences between two friendly neighbours.
(d) During the visit of the Prime Minister to Nepal in June 1997, it was decided that the expert level India-Nepal Joint Working Group (JWG), constituted by the Joint Technical Level Boundary Committee (JTC), should meet to examine relevant facts relating to the demarcation of the boundary alignment in the western sector, including the Kalapani area, and to propose, if necessary, further measures in this regard. Three meetings of the JWG have been held since then and the discussions continue at the expert level on this issue.