By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reaffirmed India’s support to Nepal’s new interim leadership and extended greetings to the people of the Himalayan nation on the eve of their National Day. Modi said he had a “warm conversation” with interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who was sworn in following massive youth-led protests that toppled the KP Sharma Oli government.
India extends support to new leadership
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Had a warm conversation with Mrs. Sushila Karki, Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. Conveyed heartfelt condolences on the recent tragic loss of lives and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability.”
The Prime Minister also congratulated Karki on her historic appointment, describing it as a milestone for gender equality. “Her arrival as the first woman PM of Nepal is a sterling example of women’s empowerment,” he added.
Had a warm conversation with Mrs. Sushila Karki, Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. Conveyed heartfelt condolences on the recent tragic loss of lives and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability. Also, I extended warm…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 18, 2025
Praise for Nepal’s youth and civic action
Modi highlighted the role of Nepal’s younger generation in shaping recent political developments. He pointed to images circulating on social media showing young people cleaning the streets after days of protests.
“This positive deed, the positive thought behind it, is not only inspiring, it is also proof of the regeneration of Nepal,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Karki sworn in amid political crisis
Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former Chief Justice, was sworn in as interim Prime Minister at Sheetal Niwas, the presidential residence, with President Ramchandra Paudel administering the oath of office. Her appointment followed days of unprecedented “Gen Z” protests triggered by a brief social media ban that rapidly evolved into a nationwide uprising against corruption, nepotism, and entrenched political elites.
The protests turned violent in parts of Kathmandu, with government buildings attacked and troops deployed to restore order. The turmoil forced KP Sharma Oli to resign, opening the way for the appointment of an interim leadership.
Contenders and controversies
Alongside Karki, other names considered for the interim role included Kulman Ghising, the former head of the Nepal Electricity Authority; Balendra Shah, the mayor of Kathmandu; and Harka Sampang, the mayor of Dharan.
Karki, who made history in 2016 as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, has faced controversy in the past. She was subjected to an impeachment motion over allegations of biased verdicts and interference in executive affairs. Nevertheless, her elevation to interim Prime Minister is being seen as a breakthrough moment for women’s representation in Nepalese politics.
With Nepal at a crossroads, Karki’s leadership is expected to focus on restoring peace, stabilising governance, and paving the way for credible elections. India’s reaffirmed support signals New Delhi’s readiness to work closely with its neighbour during this transitional phase, even as the spotlight remains on Nepal’s youth-driven call for political reform.
