India ,Nepal 

Nepal's economic advisor resigns amid controversy over new currency featuring disputed Indian territories, highlighting tensions between the two nations over territorial claims.

In a recent development, Nepal's economic advisor, Chiranjivi Nepal, has resigned from his position following a controversy sparked by his remarks regarding the government's decision to issue new hundred-rupee notes featuring a map that includes three Indian territories. The move has already been met with rejection from India.

President Ram Chandra Paudel approved Chiranjivi Nepal's resignation, as stated in a press release from the Office of the President. Chiranjivi Nepal expressed his sentiments, explaining, "I made the remarks as an economist and a former governor of the central bank, but some news media have twisted it in an attempt to unnecessarily drag the respectful institution of the president into controversy, which made me feel sad."

The new map depicted on the currency includes territories such as Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura. However, India maintains sovereignty over these areas.

Chiranjivi Nepal clarified his stance, saying, "My intention in the statement was just to make people aware as a conscious citizen that such acts could create practical problems for the country and the people at a time when discussions are underway at diplomatic levels."

The decision to print the new hundred-rupee notes with the revised map was made during a Cabinet meeting, despite criticism from various quarters. CPN-UML chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, along with a group of civil society leaders, expressed disapproval of Chiranjivi Nepal's remarks, arguing that they were against national interest and breached decorum.

Nepal's government had previously unveiled a new political map in May 2020, including Lipulek, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura within its territory. This decision was backed by the Parliament but faced objection from India.

India's External Affairs Ministry stated, "This artificial enlargement of claims is not based on historical fact or evidence and is not tenable. It is also violative of our current understanding to hold talks on outstanding boundary issues."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar voiced dissatisfaction with Nepal's decision to issue the new notes, emphasizing that it would not alter the ground situation.

Nepal shares a border of over 1,850 km with five Indian states – Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

The resignation of Chiranjivi Nepal underscores the complexities surrounding diplomatic relations and territorial disputes between Nepal and India. The incident highlights the importance of thoughtful dialogue and diplomacy in addressing sensitive issues while upholding national interests and international norms.