News Brief
‘Symbol Of Resurgence’: PM Modi Hails Nepal’s Youth For Street Clean-Up After Protests
PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday praised the spirit of Nepal’s young people, describing their civic efforts in recent days as a sign of the country’s resurgence after the violent protests that toppled the K P Sharma Oli led government in the Himalayan nation.
Speaking at a programme in Manipur's Imphal, PM Modi said that young men and women in Nepal had been seen cleaning and painting streets with a “spirit of dedication and purity".
He called their actions inspiring and a clear indication of a positive mindset that pointed to a brighter future for the Himalayan nation.
He remarked that Nepal, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a close friend and trusted partner of India.
Emphasising that both nations are bound by shared history, faith, and a collective journey forward, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt congratulations, on behalf of 140 crore Indians, to Sushila Karki on assuming office as the Prime Minister of Nepal’s interim government.
He expressed confidence that she will pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity in Nepal.
PM Modi highlighted that Sushila's appointment as Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister is a remarkable example of women empowerment.
He appreciated every individual in Nepal who upheld democratic values even in a climate of instability.
Highlighting a notable aspect of recent developments in Nepal that has not received much attention, PM Modi stated that over the past two to three days, young men and women in Nepal have been seen diligently cleaning and painting the streets with a spirit of dedication and purity.
He remarked that he has also seen their images circulating on social media.
The Prime Minister described their positive mindset and constructive actions as not only inspiring but also a clear indication of Nepal’s resurgence, according to a PMO statement.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come days after widespread protests across Nepal, largely led by young people.
Protests erupted after the government imposed a sweeping ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube, citing non-compliance with new registration rules.
For Nepal’s Gen Z, already disillusioned by corruption, nepotism and rising unemployment, the ban was the breaking point.
What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly escalated into violent clashes. Security forces used tear gas, rubber bullets and even live rounds.
Government buildings and offices in Kathmandu were attacked, and curfews were imposed in several cities. The protests left dozens dead and over a thousand injured.
Faced with mounting public anger, the government lifted the social media ban.
But pressure on Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli intensified, forcing him to resign on 9 September.
Nepal's President then dissolved the House of Representatives and appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki to head an interim government, with elections scheduled for March next year.
