Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Sushila Karki on assuming charge as Nepal’s interim prime minister, affirming India’s commitment to the “peace, progress and prosperity” of the Himalayan nation.
“I extend my best wishes to Mrs. Sushila Karki on assuming office as the Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. India remains firmly committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of the people of Nepal,” Modi said in a post on X.
“I want to congratulate Karki on behalf of 140 crore Indians. I am confident that she will pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity in Nepal. Karki occupying the top post of that country is an example of women's empowerment,” the PM added.
The Prime Minister also praised the youths of Nepal for upholding democratic values during recent unrest. “Today, I will praise every person in Nepal who has kept the democratic values supreme even in such an unstable environment...For the last few days, Nepal's youth have been working hard to clean and paint the roads of Nepal. I have also seen their pictures on social media,” Modi said. He described these efforts as a “clear indication of Nepal's new rise.”
The Indian External Affairs Ministry echoed this sentiment, describing Nepal as a “close neighbour, a fellow democracy and a long-term development partner”, and said it looked forward to working closely with Karki’s government to ensure stability and prosperity.
Karki, a former chief justice, was sworn in on Friday following weeks of Gen-Z-led protests that erupted after KP Sharma Oli’s government imposed a ban on social media platforms. The move fuelled public anger, which soon spiralled into violent clashes. Government offices, the residences of senior politicians and even parliament came under attack, forcing the army to step in and extract Oli.
Also read: ‘Namaskaar to Modi’: Nepal’s new PM Sushila Karki on India ties
Out of this turmoil, Karki emerged as a consensus figure. Her reputation for integrity and independence during her tenure as Nepal’s first woman chief justice made her acceptable to both the protesters and traditional political parties. She became a rallying point for younger demonstrators, who saw in her a symbol of change and accountability.
In an unprecedented development, her candidacy was strengthened by a public vote on Discord, the online platform where Gen-Z protest leaders had coordinated. The process gave her appointment unusual legitimacy, reflecting the influence of a restless new generation that demanded to shape political outcomes.
Her elevation marks a historic moment for Nepal, not only as a milestone for gender equality but also as a turning point for democratic renewal. As interim prime minister, Karki now faces the dual challenge of restoring order and preparing for general elections on 5 March 2026.
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