Sushila Karki, former Chief Justice of Nepal and a key figure chosen by Nepal’s Gen-Z protestors to lead the country’s interim government, reflects on her close ties with India and expresses gratitude for the youth’s trust. As she prepares to step into a pivotal leadership role during a historic moment in Nepal’s turbulent political landscape, she urges the public to approach the crisis with maturity.
Amid ongoing protests led by Nepal’s Gen-Z generation, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, who is set to take over the interim government following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, spoke about her enduring bond with India and shared insights into her career.
Karki, who describes herself as a “friend of India,” spoke fondly of her years at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, where she completed her master’s in political science in 1975. She recalled the lasting impact those years had on her.
“I am very much impressed with Indian leaders… Indian friends treat me as a sister,” she told CNN-News18, adding, “Main Modi ji ko namaskar karti hoon. I have a good impression of Modi ji.”
Reflecting on her time at BHU, Karki shared that she made lifelong friendships in India and still remembers her teachers with fondness. “India has helped Nepal a lot. Indians always wish well for Nepal,” she remarked.
A Trailblazer in Nepal’s Judiciary
Sushila Karki made history in 2016 when she became Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, serving until 2017. Her appointment to the Supreme Court came in 2009 as an ad-hoc judge, and she was made a permanent judge in 2010. Karki’s groundbreaking role as a female leader in Nepal’s judiciary marked a significant milestone in the country’s legal history.
Karki’s selection to head the interim government follows the resignation of Prime Minister Oli, and her appointment comes on the heels of months of protests led by Nepal’s youth. These protests, spearheaded by Gen-Z activists, have demanded changes to the country’s governance and the removal of political corruption. As the youth’s chosen leader, Karki expressed deep gratitude for their trust, acknowledging the responsibility she now bears.
“I feel humbled by the trust placed in me by the youth. This is a challenging time in Nepal’s history, and I am committed to guiding the country through it,” Karki stated.
An Unprecedented Moment in Nepal’s History
The protests that have rocked Nepal since September 8, 2025, were triggered after the government imposed a ban on major social media platforms over concerns about tax revenue and cybersecurity. The protests quickly escalated into widespread demonstrations, with over 30 people reported dead and hundreds more injured in clashes with security forces.
Amid the turmoil, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, often referred to as ‘Balen,’ voiced his support for Karki’s leadership, calling it a sign of the youth’s maturity and unity. In a Facebook post, Shah urged citizens to approach this unprecedented time with responsibility.
“I fully support your proposal to lead this interim/electoral government, Sushila Karki. This shows how mature you are,” Shah wrote.
The Role of Social Media & Public Frustration
The protests have been fueled by public frustration over issues such as institutionalized corruption and favoritism in governance. The recent rise of the “Nepo Babies” trend, which exposed the extravagant lifestyles of politicians’ children, has only intensified the divide between the elite and ordinary citizens. Protesters have called for more accountability and transparency from the government.
Prime Minister Modi, in a post on X, appealed for peace and order to be maintained in Nepal, while China also voiced hopes for stability in the region.
Karki, in her interview, condemned the violence and called for peace. “It is highly condemnable to kill and injure hundreds without addressing the genuine demands of the youth. This is against the values of the peace-loving Nepali society,” she said, reflecting on the gravity of the ongoing situation.
As she prepares to take on the mantle of leadership, Karki remains a figure of hope for those seeking change in Nepal’s political landscape.