S Jaishankar Rebukes Nepal’s Inclusion of Indian Areas on New Currency Note, Asserts Ground Reality Won’t Change

S Jaishankar Rebukes Nepal’s Currency Note Move: Nepal’s Currency Controversy

Nepal’s Currency Note Decision: On Friday, Nepal’s government announced its decision to issue a new Rs 100 currency note featuring a map that includes the disputed territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani. This move, perceived as provocative by India, was made despite previous objections from the Indian government, which deemed it an artificial enlargement of Nepal’s territory.

Indian Response and Diplomatic Standoff: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the issue, stating that Nepal’s inclusion of disputed territories on its currency note does not alter the reality on the ground.

Jaishankar criticized Nepal’s unilateral action, highlighting that it undermines ongoing discussions between the two countries regarding boundary matters. This stance reflects India’s firm position on the territorial disputes and emphasizes the importance of mutual agreement in addressing such sensitive issues.

Domestic Criticism in Nepal: The decision by the Prachanda government to feature disputed territories on the currency note has sparked skepticism and criticism within Nepal itself. Former diplomats and past Governors of the Nepal central bank have openly expressed their disapproval, labeling it as unwise and provocative.

Chiranjibi Nepal, a former Governor of Rastra Bank and economic advisor, highlighted the untimeliness of the decision and its broader implications. He emphasized the importance of adhering to internationally recognized maps and the potential repercussions of diverging from them.

Background of Tensions: The recent controversy adds to the existing tensions between Nepal and India, which escalated following the inauguration of a new road connecting Kailash Mansarovar via Lipulekh in May 2020. This event triggered discontent from the government in Kathmandu, leading to a temporary breakdown in communication between the two nations.

Nepal’s subsequent decision to update its map and pass a Constitution amendment Bill further strained diplomatic relations, highlighting the complexities of managing territorial disputes and the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving such contentious issues.

Know more about S. Jaishankar…

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, commonly known as S. Jaishankar, is an Indian diplomat and politician who has held various prominent positions in the Indian government. Born on January 9, 1955, in New Delhi, India, Jaishankar is known for his extensive experience in foreign affairs and strategic affairs.

Jaishankar joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1977 after completing his education. He holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and an M.Phil and Ph.D. in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi. His early diplomatic postings included assignments in Moscow, Tokyo, and Washington D.C.

Read more:Sadiq Khan Clinches Historic Hat-Trick as Labour Stamps Authority in Local Elections: A Shift in UK Political Landscape

Throughout his diplomatic career, Jaishankar has held several key positions, including serving as India’s Ambassador to various countries, including China (2009-2013), the United States (2013-2015), and the Czech Republic (2000-2004). He has also served as the High Commissioner to Singapore (2007-2009).

Read more:Hyderabad Police Action, BJP’s Nomination, and Amit Shah’s Rally Remarks: Insights into Lok Sabha Election 2024 Developments

Jaishankar’s tenure as Foreign Secretary of India from January 2015 to January 2018 was marked by his active engagement in shaping India’s foreign policy agenda. During this time, he played a crucial role in furthering India’s strategic partnerships, particularly with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

In May 2019, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar made a transition from diplomacy to politics when he was appointed as India’s Minister of External Affairs in the Narendra Modi-led government. As India’s top diplomat, Jaishankar has been responsible for steering India’s foreign policy initiatives on various global platforms.

He has been involved in addressing key diplomatic challenges, strengthening bilateral relations with other countries, and representing India’s interests on the international stage.

Read more:Smriti Irani’s Triumph: A Resounding Response to Congress’s Amethi Jibes

Throughout his career, Jaishankar has been recognized for his strategic thinking, diplomatic acumen, and pragmatic approach to foreign policy. He continues to play a significant role in shaping India’s foreign relations and is considered one of the key architects of India’s modern diplomatic initiatives.