The denial of permission to the first batch of 47 Indian pilgrims appears a surprise as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the new route via Nathula Pass in Sikkim was launched with a fanfare by the two countries in 2015.
After two years of opening of new land route for pilgrims, the Chinese authority had decided to shut down Nathula route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Though two days ago, Ministry of External Affairs had issued a short statement that Indian authorities were in touch with their Chinese counterparts for resolving the impasse over this route, the Chinese officials, on Monday, said that they are of the view to close down the route through Sikkim, without giving any reason in this connection.
The pilgrims were scheduled to cross over to the Chinese side on June 19, but the inclement weather played the spoilsport that day. As a result, they came back to their base camp and tried to cross again on June 23, but they couldn't get permission by the Chinese officials. The development, however, appears casting a shadow of uncertainty on the annual yatra as Chinese officials maintained that considering the safety of Indian pilgrims, they need 'adequate' time, to repair the roads and till that time the Indians would not be able to make the pilgrimage. Appearing contrary to this claim, till last Thursday, the traders from China were allowed to Sherathang near Nathula for bilateral trade.
On the other hand, the pilgrims – who were denied permission by Chinese officials – have already returned to their respective states. The indefinite blockade by Gorkha agitators has also increased the problems of the pilgrims.
In June 2015, China had opened the second land crossing in Tibet via Nathu La to allow Indian pilgrims undertaking the arduous Kailash Mansarovar yatra, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit there.