Nepal's Former Chief Justice Urges Calm Amidst Anti-India Protests: A Call for Dialogue and Enduring Friendship

In a powerful plea for peace and diplomatic understanding, Sushila Karki, Nepal's former Chief Justice, has expressed profound concern over the escalating anti-India protests gripping her nation. Her poignant address serves as a critical reminder of the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties binding India and Nepal, urging both sides to navigate current tensions with wisdom and foresight.

The genesis of the recent uproar lies in a remark by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, during a parliamentary session, mentioned Lumbini as the birthplace of Lord Buddha and acknowledged Nepal as the location.

While factually accurate and widely accepted, this statement unexpectedly ignited a wave of protests across Nepal, driven by certain groups and individuals who perceived it as an affront to Nepal's sovereignty or a misrepresentation of history, despite numerous previous statements from Indian officials reaffirming Lumbini's status.

Karki's intervention is not merely a call for calm; it's a stark warning against the insidious influence of external forces that stand to gain from discord between the two South Asian neighbors.

She explicitly highlighted the potential for nations like China to exploit any friction, emphasizing that such geopolitical maneuvering could undermine the very fabric of Nepal's sovereignty and stability.

Reflecting on the enduring bond, Karki underscored the historical significance of Lumbini, a site revered by Buddhists worldwide, as a testament to the shared heritage of India and Nepal.

She emphasized that centuries of open borders, cultural exchange, and familial ties between the people of both nations should not be jeopardized by momentary misunderstandings or politically motivated rhetoric.

Her appeal extends beyond the immediate protests, advocating for a return to the long-established practice of resolving disputes through dialogue and mutual respect.

She articulated a vision where leaders and citizens alike recognize the unparalleled strength derived from a harmonious relationship, particularly given the extensive economic and social interdependence.

The former Chief Justice's message resonates deeply with the spirit of cooperative diplomacy.

She called upon the Nepali government and civil society to engage constructively with India, to clarify any ambiguities, and to prevent the narrative from being hijacked by elements intent on sowing discord. Her words serve as a crucial reminder that peace and stability in the region are intrinsically linked to the health of the India-Nepal relationship, a bond too vital to be sacrificed at the altar of fleeting political expediency or external manipulation.