PM Modi’s First Reaction as Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister: ‘India Remains Committed…’
 

KATHMANDU/NEW DELHI:
Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former Chief Justice and a noted anti-corruption activist, was sworn in on Friday as the head of the country’s interim government, marking a historic moment as she became the first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in the Himalayan nation.

Reacting to the development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his best wishes to Karki and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for Nepal’s stability and growth.

“I extend my best wishes to Right Hon. 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 social media post.

A turbulent backdrop

Karki’s appointment follows days of violent Gen Z–led protests triggered by a controversial social media ban and rising anger against corruption under the government of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The unrest spiraled into nationwide demonstrations that left more than 70 people dead, including over 20 students, and led to the torching of government buildings and political leaders’ homes.

Amid mounting pressure, Oli resigned earlier this week, paving the way for the formation of the interim government. Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath of office to Karki in a ceremony at the presidential palace on September 12.

India’s response

The Indian government, in its first formal reaction on Friday night, welcomed the new leadership in Kathmandu.

“As a close neighbour, a fellow democracy and a long-term development partner, India will continue to work closely with Nepal for the well-being and prosperity of our two peoples and countries,” the external affairs ministry said.

Earlier this week, Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to assess the escalating crisis in Nepal. Expressing deep anguish over the loss of young lives during the unrest, he had said:

“The stability, peace and prosperity of Nepal are of utmost importance to us.”

Nepal at a crossroads

Karki, who rose to prominence as Nepal’s first woman Chief Justice, has built a reputation for her anti-corruption stance. Her elevation to the top post is being seen as both symbolic and strategic, aimed at restoring public trust amid widespread disillusionment with mainstream political parties.

While the interim government faces the immediate challenge of restoring law and order, its larger mandate will be to pave the way for fresh elections and ensure a smooth democratic transition in the country.