All countries are equally dignified and sovereign under the international law. The hegemonic enigma espoused by realism, i.e., the big and small, the rich and poor, and the powerful and powerless needs to forgo unconditionally. In this regard, favoring the international law, a major paradigm shift in Nepal-India relations is conspicuously urgent for resolving outstanding issues between these two countries. A robust friendly relationship with India is both necessary and desirable; however, it needs to be built on fairness and respect. Throughout her history, Nepal has never postured threats or tribulations to India as a trustworthy friend; but ironically, has suffered not only from the British-India wars but also from inhumane blockades by independent India, reminding of the colonial past. Since the Sugauli Treaty, a number of additional treaties that Nepal and India have concluded for strengthening bilateral relations through the rules-based system, have turned abortive in promoting public confidence in Nepal. To reverse this bitter experience, the Lipu Lekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhra issue together with the Kali River row urgently demands amicable resolution. Accepting this moment as an opportunity, both neighbors need to cooperate for a win-win situation, urgently needed for capturing the prospects of Asian century.
Nepal India Frontier Diplomacy ref to Kali River – Surendra Bhandari, Achut Gautam