NEW DELHI/KATHMANDU (Web Desk) - India has raised objections to Nepal’s newly issued 100-rupee banknote, citing the inclusion of three disputed areas – Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani – over which both countries claim sovereignty.
The Nepali cabinet had approved the note’s issuance in May 2024, but it has recently entered public circulation. While India does not object to the note itself, the map printed on it has sparked diplomatic concern.
India’s External Affairs Ministry emphasized that border disputes are part of ongoing negotiations and stated that “artificial expansion of territorial claims is unacceptable.” External Affairs Minister condemned the move, saying, “No unilateral action can change ground realities.”
Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Radhinath Jeswal told media that Prime Minister Modi has reiterated that both countries are engaged in dialogue over border matters, and such actions will not alter the ongoing talks.
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the country’s central bank, said the new 100-rupee note is designed with enhanced security and identification features to ensure authenticity and encourage usage.