India Welcomes Nepal’s New Interim PM Sushila Karki; Sees Hope For Stability & Elections

Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Paudel has sworn in Sushila Karki as the country’s first woman interim Prime Minister following days of mass protests and political turmoil.

Her appointment signals a rare moment of consensus after the resignation of KP Sharma Oli amidst the Gen Z‑led anti‑corruption movement.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India, as a close neighbour and democratic partner, will continue working with Nepal for the well‑being of both nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to Karki via a post on X, underscoring India’s unwavering commitment to Nepal’s peace, progress, and prosperity.

Elections Scheduled, Constitutional Challenges Loom

Hours after her swearing‑in, President Paudel dissolved parliament and fixed general elections for March 5, 2026.

The interim government is expected to lead for approximately six months, tasked with restoring order and preparing for the polls.

Karki’s rise, however, comes with legal and constitutional questions. The interim PM had served as Chief Justice, and Nepal’s Constitution contains provisions that limit former judges from holding executive office.

Supporters argue that in this moment of crisis, her appointment under the ‘principle of necessity’ was essential.

A controversial social media ban initially triggered the protests that led to these developments.

They swiftly expanded to wider grievances, corruption, lack of accountability, and political elitism. The demonstrations left at least 50 people dead and hundreds injured.

India’s welcoming response suggests hopes that this transitional period will bring stability, pave the way for transparent governance, and foster deeper democratic ties.

As Nepal looks to chart its path forward, many eyes will be on how the interim government handles both constitutional constraints and public expectations.

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