‘Akhand Bharat’ Map Should Not Be Politicized, Says India’s EAM

India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the map of ‘Akhand Bharat,’ emphasizing that it should not be turned into a political issue. During a media interaction in New Delhi on Thursday, Dr. Jaishankar expressed his belief that neighboring countries have already understood the matter.

The Minister highlighted that the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs had already provided clarification regarding the map. He pointed out that the map displays the historical extent of the Ashoka Empire and is accompanied by a signboard explaining its historical significance. While he acknowledged the need for neighboring countries to seek further explanation, Dr. Jaishankar stressed that it should not be blown out of proportion.

“I don’t think it should become a political issue; our neighboring countries understand such things. It is not a big deal if our neighbour need an explanation about that,” Dr. Jaishankar remarked.

The controversy surrounding the map emerged due to protests from the streets to the Houses in Nepal, where concerns were raised regarding the inclusion of Nepalese territories on the map displayed in India’s newly constructed parliament building. The areas of Lumbini and Kapilvastu were allegedly depicted as part of the Indian territory on the map.

Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpamakal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ had earlier stated that he had engaged in a serious discussion on this matter with his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to India. Prime Minister Prachanda mentioned that Modi brought up the issue, and for the first time, he received a clear stance from the Indian Prime Minister regarding the border problem with Nepal.

“We have mentioned it clearly under the map that ‘Akhand Bharat’ mural depicts the spread of the Ashokan empire. It should not be a pol issue & our neighbours will understand that & I am told they have acknowledged our explanation” @DrSJaishankar on mural that offended Nepal. pic.twitter.com/sQhVpSKFPA

— epardafas.com (@englishpardafas) June 8, 2023