PM Modi Speaks with Nepal’s Sushila Karki, Reaffirms India’s Support for Peace Amid Gen Z Protests

Nepal was thrust into turmoil in September 2025 when thousands of young citizens, largely from Generation Z, poured into the streets to protest against corruption, nepotism, and the government’s controversial decision to ban social media platforms. The ban, which restricted access to Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and others, was officially justified as a regulatory move. For the youth, however, it symbolized a deeper erosion of freedoms and accountability. What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly escalated into violent clashes, with protesters setting fire to government buildings, political leaders’ residences, and business establishments.

The unrest left more than seventy people dead and thousands injured, creating a crisis of governance that toppled the administration of Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli. The protests, unprecedented in their scale and energy, revealed a generational pushback against entrenched political practices that many young Nepalis view as outdated and corrupt.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PMO) | Livemint

The Rise of Sushila Karki

In the wake of the protests, Nepal turned to an unlikely figure to restore calm. Sushila Karki, a respected jurist and the country’s first female Chief Justice, was sworn in as interim Prime Minister on 12 September 2025. At 73, Karki represents both continuity and change—an experienced leader chosen to steer the country through crisis, yet a fresh face untainted by the dynastic politics that fueled the youth’s anger.

Karki’s appointment has been widely welcomed, particularly by young activists who see her as a neutral leader capable of bridging divides. She has pledged to address the grievances of the protesters, recognize those killed during the demonstrations as martyrs, and prioritize institutional reforms. Most importantly, her government is tasked with overseeing free and fair elections scheduled for March 2026, when Nepalis will choose a new parliament and permanent prime minister.

India’s Reassuring Voice

Amid these dramatic shifts, India moved swiftly to extend a hand of friendship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his first official conversation with Karki on 18 September, expressing heartfelt condolences for the loss of lives during the protests. He assured India’s steadfast support for Nepal’s efforts to restore peace and stability, while also sending warm greetings to the people of Nepal ahead of their National Day.

The call carried significant weight. India and Nepal share deep historical, cultural, and geographical ties, and instability in Kathmandu has always had regional implications. For Modiji, the outreach reinforced India’s role as a trusted partner during Nepal’s fragile transition. For Karki, it was her first diplomatic engagement as head of government, underscoring the importance of balancing Nepal’s sovereignty with constructive support from neighbors.

The Deeper Fault Lines

While the social media ban triggered the immediate unrest, the protests exposed deeper systemic issues. Youth unemployment remains high, corruption is perceived to be widespread, and accusations of favoritism toward political families—the so-called “nepo kids”—have eroded trust in institutions. For many young Nepalis, the protests were not only about freedom of expression but also about reclaiming their future from political elites.

The challenge for the interim government lies in addressing these underlying grievances while keeping the peace. Failure to deliver tangible reforms could risk renewed unrest, while success could mark a turning point in Nepal’s democratic journey.

Regional and Global Attention

The Gen Z uprising in Nepal has drawn global attention, not only because of the violence and loss of life but also because it reflects a broader trend across South Asia. Young populations are increasingly asserting themselves in political life, leveraging digital platforms to challenge outdated governance. Nepal’s crisis is being closely watched by both India and China, with analysts noting that the country’s geopolitical position makes its stability critical for the region.

The MGMM Outlook

Nepal’s Gen Z-led protests have become a defining moment in the nation’s political journey, exposing the deep frustration of young citizens with entrenched corruption, nepotism, and restrictions on freedom. The government’s ban on major social media platforms acted as the final spark, igniting an unprecedented wave of demonstrations that shook the establishment and brought down Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli. In this turbulence, the rise of Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister reflects both continuity and change—an experienced jurist entrusted with restoring order, yet also a leader untainted by political dynasties. Her leadership has been received with hope, especially among the youth who now demand accountability, recognition of sacrifices, and a roadmap for real reforms.

For India, this moment carries both strategic and emotional significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s outreach to Karki, marked by condolences and a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to Nepal’s peace, reflects the depth of historical and cultural ties between the two nations. At a time when Nepal’s democracy stands at a crossroads, India’s reassuring voice highlights its role as a trusted partner in ensuring stability. The events also underline a larger regional trend—South Asia’s youth asserting themselves as a political force, challenging outdated governance models, and demanding transparency. Nepal’s unfolding story is therefore not just about a single nation’s struggle but a glimpse into the generational wave reshaping the region’s future.

(Sources: Livemint, India Today, NDTV)