Imphal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his first visit to Manipur since the outbreak of ethnic violence in 2023 to extend an unexpected but powerful message across the Himalayas to the people of Nepal. Speaking from the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal, the Prime Minister congratulated Sushila Karki on assuming office as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister, describing her rise as a symbol of “women empowerment” and a “sign of Nepal’s resurgence.”
Addressing a large gathering in Imphal, PM Modi emphasized the centuries-old bonds between India and Nepal, rooted in history, faith, and shared culture. “Nepal, in the lap of the Himalayas, is our close friend. On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I congratulate Sushila Karki on becoming Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister. I am confident she will pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity in Nepal,” he said.
While his visit to Manipur was expected to focus primarily on peace-building efforts in the conflict-ridden state, the Prime Minister chose to highlight developments in Kathmandu. The reference to Nepal was seen as a symbolic gesture of solidarity at a time when Nepal’s politics has undergone a dramatic shift following the collapse of the KP Sharma Oli government.
“Nepal’s youth have not just raised their voices but have also taken responsibility. In recent days, they were seen cleaning the streets images that have gone viral on social media. This is not merely an act of service; it is a powerful sign of Nepal’s resurgence,” Modi said, framing the grassroots movement as an inspiration for democratic renewal in the region.
PM Modi hailed the resilience of Nepal’s people in safeguarding democratic values during turbulent times. He noted that Ms. Karki’s appointment amid Gen-Z-led protests that toppled the Oli administration showed the power of people’s voices in shaping governance. “I appreciate every citizen of Nepal who has upheld democracy in the face of challenges. This is a victory not just for Nepal but for democracy itself,” the Prime Minister added.
Earlier in the day, Modi had also sent a formal congratulatory note via his X handle, affirming India’s support: “India remains firmly committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of the people of Nepal.”
Sushila Karki, the former Chief Justice of Nepal and now the nation’s first woman Prime Minister, was sworn in yesterday as head of an interim government. Backed strongly by the Gen-Z protest movement, her selection finalized through an online vote on Discord led by young leaders marks an unprecedented shift in Nepal’s political landscape. Her mandate is to stabilize the country, prepare for general elections scheduled for March 5, 2026, and steer reforms demanded by protesters.
India, through its Ministry of External Affairs, welcomed the development: “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 fall of the KP Sharma Oli government came after months of anti-corruption protests that escalated sharply when authorities imposed a social media ban last week. Demonstrations spiraled into mass unrest, forcing Oli’s resignation and creating a leadership vacuum filled by Karki’s interim administration.
By invoking Nepal during his Manipur address, PM Modi not only highlighted India’s neighbourly concern but also underlined the resilience of democracy in South Asia. His words, observers say, were carefully chosen to send a message: that India stands ready to support Nepal during its political transition while celebrating the energy and responsibility of its younger generation.