'India will always stand firm for peace'; PM Modi congratulates new Nepal PM Sushila Karki

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated former Supreme Court Chief Justice of Nepal Sushila Karki (73) on taking charge as the interim Prime Minister of the country. The greetings were shared on social media. Sushila Karki was sworn in at 9 pm last night in Nepal, where the government was overthrown following civil unrest. This is the first time in the history of Nepal that a woman is ascending to the position of Prime Minister.

"Congratulations to Sushila Karki on taking over as the Prime Minister of the interim government of Nepal. India will always stand firm for the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Nepal," Modi wrote in the tweet. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava had met Sushila and conveyed his greetings. "As close neighbours, fellow democracies and long-standing development partners, India will continue to work closely with Nepal for the welfare and prosperity of both countries and their people," the Ministry of External Affairs also said in a statement.

The decision to appoint the Prime Minister was taken after marathon discussions at the President's residence yesterday, attended by youth (Gen-Z) protesters and political parties. However, Sushila took a firm stand that Parliament should be dissolved before the oath-taking. Gen Z leader Sudan Gurung also took a stand that Parliament should be dissolved first. According to the Constitution, Parliament can be dissolved only after the recommendation of the Prime Minister and the approval of the President. However, the protesters threatened to surround the President's residence if Parliament is not dissolved. As the pressure intensified, President Ram Chandra Paudel dissolved Parliament. A three-member cabinet will be formed immediately. General elections will be held on March 5, 2026.