The Sugauli Treaty: A Historic Turning Point and Its Unknown Facts

 Prashun Kumar Upadhyay 

 15 June 2024

The early 19th century was a period of extensive territorial expansion for the British East India Company. During this time, Nepal, under the rule of King Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah and the premiership of Bhimsen Thapa, was also expanding its territories aggressively. This expansion led to conflicts with neighboring regions, including territories controlled by the British East India Company. The Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816) ensued, as both powers vied for dominance in the Himalayan region.

The Anglo-Nepalese War, also known as the Gorkha War, was a result of Nepal’s aggressive territorial ambitions which brought it into conflict with British interests. The Gorkhas had successfully annexed several neighboring kingdoms and regions, which alarmed the British. The war, although short-lived, was intense and highlighted the military prowess and resilience of the Gorkha soldiers. However, the British, with their superior resources and strategic advantages, managed to push back the Nepalese forces.

Reasons the Treaty was Signed:

Three of the main goals of the British East India Company were to employ Nepal’s impressive army, establish a presence of supervision in the Nepali court, and utilize its trading routes to Tibet. Naturally, the decision to sign the treaty was met with significant resistance within the Nepali court, becoming a major point of controversy. Bhimsen Thapa, Nepal’s prime minister at the time, realized that the best way to ensure Nepal’s continued freedom from interference was to grant the governor-general’s basic desire: a secure and trouble-free border. To mitigate the potential devastation to Nepal’s sovereignty and security, the treaty was signed. From the British perspective, the bureaucratic efforts of colonizing Nepal were impractical compared to placing certain aspects under British employment.

Key Provisions of the Treaty:

The Sugauli Treaty was signed on December 2, 1815, and ratified on March 4, 1816. The signatories of the treaty were Lieutenant Colonel Paris Bradshaw on behalf of the British East India Company and Chandra Sekher Upadhyaya and Gajaraj Mishra on behalf of the King of Nepal. The key provisions of the treaty included:

1. Territorial Concessions: Nepal ceded significant territories to the British, including Sikkim, Kumaon, Garhwal, and parts of the Terai region. This redrawing of boundaries significantly reduced Nepal’s territory and influence. The Terai region, known for its fertile land, was particularly significant economically.

2. Trade and Diplomatic Relations: The treaty established formal trade and diplomatic relations between Nepal and British India. A British Resident was stationed in Kathmandu, marking the beginning of British influence in Nepalese politics and trade. This presence allowed the British to monitor and influence Nepal’s internal and external affairs closely.

3. Nepal’s Independence: Despite the territorial losses, Nepal retained its sovereignty. The treaty recognized Nepal as an independent state, which allowed it to maintain its distinct cultural and political identity. This aspect of the treaty ensured that Nepal remained a buffer state between British India and the potential threats from the north.

4. Military Provisions: The treaty also included clauses that restricted Nepal’s military activities. Nepal was prohibited from employing any foreigners in its military services without British consent. This provision was aimed at preventing any potential alliances that could threaten British interests in the region.

Effects of the Treaty:

The treaty stipulated that Nepal’s government structure be without external interference and that, aside from the singular British Resident in the Nepali court, their national affairs would not be compromised. In addition to the benefit of Nepal’s continued sovereign independence, an alliance was established between the two governments. From the British perspective, ensuring a stable and cooperative Nepal was more practical than direct colonization.

Aftermath:

The treaty saw three decades of peace following its implementation, but other issues began to arise starting in 1840. In June 1840, an army mutiny over proposed pay reductions almost turned into an attack on the British residency because the soldiers were led to believe that the cuts had been forced on the Nepalese government by the British. This followed as a result of suspicions that arose in the Nepali court that its independence in internal government affairs was being infringed upon. Another incidence of alarm occurred in 1842 during a debt lawsuit over an Indian merchant, Kasinath Mull. The British Resident in the Nepalese court, Brian Hodgson, appeared hostile and assertive, implicating attempted control over the independence of decisions in the court. These issues highlighted the ongoing tensions and the challenges in maintaining the treaty’s intended buffer.

Boundary Treaty of 1860:

In 1857, the Indian Mutiny began, a rebellion declared as the First War of Independence against British rule in India, and was fought by the Indian army employed under the British. During this time, a division of Gorkha soldiers was sent to the war in support of the British and aided in its success. This established a friendlier form of diplomacy that ultimately called for a revision in the Sugauli Treaty, which panned more positively in favor of Nepal’s independence and territorial integrity. This would be called the Boundary Treaty of 1860.

Where is Sugauli:

Sugauli is a city and a notified area in East Champaran district in the Indian state of Bihar.

Lesser-Known Facts:

1. Negotiation Challenges: The negotiations leading to the Sugauli Treaty were fraught with challenges. The British initially demanded harsher terms, but the resilience and negotiation skills of Nepalese envoys, particularly the efforts of Bhimsen Thapa, resulted in relatively moderate concessions. Thapa, Nepal’s Mukhtiyar (equivalent to Prime Minister), played a crucial role in mitigating the treaty’s impact on Nepal.

2. Impact on Local Populations: The redrawing of boundaries affected numerous local communities, particularly in the Terai region. Many ethnic groups found themselves divided by the new borders, impacting their social and economic lives. The division disrupted traditional landholdings and trade routes, causing significant upheaval.

3. Long-Term Strategic Interests:The British viewed the treaty as a strategic move to secure their northern frontier. The territories gained provided the British with crucial buffer zones against potential threats from the north, particularly from Tibet and China. This strategic advantage helped the British in securing their hold over the Indian subcontinent.

4. Economic Ramifications: The loss of fertile Terai lands had significant economic repercussions for Nepal. These regions were vital for agriculture and trade, and their loss strained Nepal’s economy, contributing to internal unrest in subsequent years. The Terai was known for producing surplus crops, and its loss led to food shortages and economic instability.

5. Cultural Exchange: Despite the political tensions, the treaty paved the way for increased cultural exchange between British India and Nepal. The stationing of a British Resident in Kathmandu facilitated the exchange of ideas, technology, and culture, influencing Nepalese society in subtle yet profound ways. This cultural exchange led to the introduction of new administrative practices, legal systems, and technological advancements in Nepal.

6. Diplomatic Relations: The treaty marked the beginning of a formal diplomatic relationship between Nepal and the British Empire. This relationship had its complexities, with periods of cooperation and tension. The British influence in Nepalese politics grew over the years, affecting the internal dynamics of the Nepalese court.

7. Military Integration: Post-treaty, the British were impressed by the Gorkha soldiers’ valor and combat skills. This led to the recruitment of Gorkhas into the British Indian Army, a tradition that continues to this day. The Gorkha regiments became one of the most respected and decorated units in the British military.

8. Environmental Impact: The shifting of borders also had environmental implications. The Terai region, which became a part of British India, saw changes in land use and forestry management practices. The British implemented various agricultural and forestry policies that transformed the region’s landscape.

9. Treaty’s Aftermath: In the years following the treaty, Nepal underwent significant internal reforms. Bhimsen Thapa’s government initiated efforts to modernize the military and administration, learning from the military defeat. These reforms aimed at strengthening Nepal’s sovereignty and preventing future territorial losses.

Impact on Contemporary Nepal and India:

1. Geopolitical Dynamics:The Sugauli Treaty has had a lasting impact on the geopolitical dynamics between Nepal and India. The established boundaries continue to define the modern-day borders of Nepal, influencing the political and diplomatic relations between the two countries. Issues related to border management and cross-border movement are often traced back to the demarcations established by the treaty.

2. Cultural and Social Integration:The treaty facilitated a degree of cultural and social integration between Nepal and India. Over the years, there has been a significant exchange of culture, traditions, and social practices. The recruitment of Gorkha soldiers into the Indian Army is a notable example of this integration, fostering strong people-to-people ties between the two nations.

3. Economic Interdependence: The economic ramifications of the treaty have had long-term effects on Nepal’s economy. While the loss of fertile Terai land initially strained Nepal’s economy, the region eventually adapted and diversified its economic activities. Today, the economic interdependence between Nepal and India is significant, with trade, tourism, and labor migration playing key roles.

4. Diplomatic Relations: The formal diplomatic relations established by the treaty have evolved over the years, with periods of both cooperation and tension. Contemporary Nepal-India relations continue to be influenced by the historical context of the Sugauli Treaty. Issues such as water sharing, trade agreements, and political cooperation are often negotiated within the framework established by this historical treaty.

5. Strategic Importance: The strategic importance of Nepal as a buffer state between India and China remains relevant today. The Sugauli Treaty’s provisions ensured Nepal’s sovereignty, which continues to play a crucial role in the regional balance of power. Both India and China view Nepal as strategically significant, influencing their diplomatic and economic policies towards the country.

6. Border Disputes: Despite the treaty’s intention to clearly demarcate borders, there have been occasional border disputes between Nepal and India. Areas like Kalapani and Susta have seen disagreements over territorial claims, leading to diplomatic negotiations and discussions. These disputes highlight the enduring impact of the treaty on contemporary border issues.

7. Environmental Cooperation:The environmental impact of the treaty’s border demarcations continues to influence Nepal-India cooperation on issues like river management, deforestation, and biodiversity conservation. Joint efforts to address environmental challenges in the Himalayan and Terai regions are a testament to the ongoing relevance of the treaty’s legacy.

The Sugauli Treaty stands as a landmark moment in South Asian history, encapsulating the complex interplay of power, diplomacy, and territorial ambition. While it brought an end to the Anglo-Nepalese War and established a framework for future relations, its legacy is multifaceted, encompassing both cooperation and contention. Understanding the Sugauli Treaty and its lesser-known aspects provides valuable insights into the historical forces that have shaped the region’s geopolitical landscape. As we reflect on this treaty, it is crucial to recognize its enduring impact on the histories and identities of both Nepal and India. The treaty not only reshaped borders but also influenced the cultural and political trajectories of the region, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate in contemporary times. The ongoing diplomatic, economic, and strategic interactions between Nepal and India are a testament to the lasting influence of the Sugauli Treaty. And while the physical document itself may be preserved in a controlled environment, its impact continues to reverberate through the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.