The recent declaration by Nepal’s Foreign Minister, concerning the 1947 Tripartite Agreement between India, Nepal and the United Kingdom, has brought the issue of Gurkha soldiers from Nepal into the limelight. The minister stated that the agreement has become obsolete and suggested handling the matter bilaterally with both nations. This situation opens up an opportunity to delve deeper into the historical context, key points, and imminent issues surrounding the Gurkha soldiers and the Tripartite Agreement.
Understanding the Tripartite Agreement
In 1947, as India gained independence, it was decided to divide Gurkha regiments between the Indian and British armies. The first recruitment of Gurkhas by the East India Company in the early 19th century, followed by the British Indian Army, was a direct result of heavy losses suffered during the Anglo-Nepalese war, also known as the Gurkha War. This conflict culminated in the signing of the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816.
According to the terms of this treaty, Gurkhas in British and Indian service were entitled to the same conditions of service as British and Indian citizens. These services encompassed perks, remunerations, facilities, and pension schemes. It presented the first opportunity for Nepali youth to travel abroad for work.
Present-Day Objections and Disputes
Nepal’s recent protests about Gurkhas serving in the Indian military have come into focus due to the ongoing territorial dispute between Nepal and India over the Kalapani region. This area, located in the Pithoragarh district, is claimed by Nepal as part of its territory. In response to this claim, Nepal released a new map featuring the disputed territories.
The situation escalated when the Indian Army Chief suggested that Nepal’s vehement protest against Indian road construction in the Limpiadora-Kalapani-Lipulekh area was influenced by a third party, possibly China. Nepalese citizens and Gurkha army personnel took offense to these remarks from the Indian Army Chief.
Gurkha veterans have also been claiming that the United Kingdom has been discriminating against them in terms of pay, pension, and other facilities. It is notable that the British government only initiated equal pay and pension for Gurkhas in 2007.
Gurkhas in the British Army
Post the 1947 Tripartite Agreement, the Gurkha regiment was incorporated into the combined Royal Gurkha Rifles (RGR) in the British Army. Presently, Gurkhas constitute approximately 3% of the British Army. In 2015, they marked 200 years of service in the British Army.
Queen Elizabeth II of Britain even has two personal Gurkha officers guarding her. Every year, new Gurkhas are recruited at the British Gurkha camp located in Pokhara, Nepal. This camp provides recruits not only for the British Army but also for the counter-terror arm of the Singapore Police Force. The iconic weapon of the Gurkhas, the Khukri, features in the regimental insignia both in Britain and India.
Looking Towards the Future
India and Nepal have deep-rooted cultural ties and open borders, with each recognizing the other’s citizens as national citizens. However, due to recent border disputes, bilateral relations have strained. These complications underline the need to strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries, to ensure continued peaceful interactions and mutual growth.
Last Modified: February 8, 2024