Nepal‘s Gen Z-Backed Leader Expresses Warmth Towards India, Recalls Time at BHU
kathmandu, Nepal – Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former judge and a figurehead for Nepal’s Gen Z-driven political shift, publicly voiced her positive sentiments towards India and its leadership on Wednesday, emphasizing a deep-rooted connection between the two nations. Karki rose to prominence as the leader of a movement that led to a recent government change in Nepal.
Karki’s comments come amidst a period of political upheaval in Nepal, following protests and the fall of the previous government. Her expression of goodwill towards India is notable, given the historically complex relationship between the two countries and the recent unrest.She represents a new generation’s outlook on regional ties, offering a possibly stabilizing voice.
Speaking in an interview with NEWS18, Karki stated her favorable impression of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, “I pay for MODI J.I have a good impression of Moody J.” She underscored the long-standing ties between Nepal and India, stating, “we did not come into contact with India today.We will talk about it. When it is an international problem, some people sit together between the two countries.”
Karki, the first woman to serve as a judge at the Nepal Supreme Court, also fondly recalled her time as a student at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, India, where she earned a master’s degree. “I still remember my teachers and friends. I still remember the river. I went down next to the ganga. We were sleeping at the terrace at night,” she reminisced.
She highlighted the close cultural and familial connections between Nepalese and Indian citizens, noting, “But there is a good relationship between Nepalese and Indians. It is a vrey good relationship. Many relatives, many acquaintances… we have a lot of good intentions and love.” Karki described Indian leaders as “brothers and sisters” and identified herself as a “very fan” of them.
Karki also noted her proximity to the Indian border, stating, “I am a Bernagar citizen near the Indian border. Perhaps my house (India) will not be 25 miles.” She regularly visited border markets.She acknowledged India’s ancient support for Nepal,adding,”India has always helped Nepal. We are very close…”
The interview also touched upon the recent unrest in Nepal, where at least 25 people died during violent protests sparked by frustration with corruption and ultimately leading to the government’s collapse. Karki affirmed a commitment to ensuring the safety of Indians in Nepal and to delivering justice for those who lost their lives during the protests.