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General Ashok Raj Sigdel has assured Indian officials there will be no cross-border fallout from Nepal’s unrest and pledged support to maintain peace
Nepal Army personnel patrol during a curfew in the aftermath of anti-government protests, in Kathmandu, Nepal. (PTI Photo)
India’s top security establishment is in close contact with the Chief of the Nepal Army, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, as the political and law-and-order situation continues to remain fragile in the neighbouring Himalayan nation. Sources told CNN-News18 that General Sigdel has assured full cooperation to India. He has also conveyed that there will be no spillover of the ongoing crisis into Indian territory and that all efforts are underway to stabilise the situation.
During the communication, the Indian side requested assistance in maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety and security of Indian nationals stranded or residing in Nepal. Both requests were met with full assurance from the Nepal Army Chief.
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At the same time, the Indian side categorically conveyed that it does not wish to be involved in Nepal’s internal matters.
The Army Chief acknowledged that the situation had developed suddenly but said he was trying his best to resolve the crisis as soon as possible.
The outreach comes as Nepal faces a serious constitutional and leadership crisis triggered by unprecedented youth-led protests that have rocked the country since September 8.
Nepal Crisis Deepens, But Solution Likely Soon
The protests, spearheaded by Gen Z demonstrators opposing a controversial social media ban and widespread corruption, have already led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and several ministers. The violent unrest has claimed at least 34 lives, according to officials, and forced curfews, army deployment, and attacks on politicians’ homes across multiple regions.
Now, a possible resolution is on the horizon.
Top sources told CNN-News18 that former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is likely to be appointed interim Prime Minister. A crisis management team is currently in talks to resolve the deadlock over leadership and constitutional procedure.
President Ramchandra Paudel, who is under military protection, has made a public appeal for calm and stressed that a solution would be found within the framework of Nepal’s 2015 Constitution. Sources said that although there is no explicit provision for appointing a political interim Prime Minister, a legal workaround is being explored: Karki will first be nominated to the Upper House and then elevated to the Prime Minister’s post via an ordinance, expected to be issued by the President.
Gen Z Protesters Back Karki, Border Shut, Fuel Shortage Grips Nation
One of the most prominent faces of the youth-led uprising, Sudan Gurung — president of the We Nepali group — has publicly endorsed Karki as the preferred face to lead the interim cabinet.
“We are ready to accept the leadership of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki,” Gurung said, reiterating that dissolution of Parliament is a non-negotiable demand and that the new cabinet must reflect the aspirations of the youth. “The Gen Z generation will monitor its functioning,” he warned.
Meanwhile, the partial closure of the India–Nepal border has led to a severe fuel shortage, with hundreds of oil tankers stranded. In Dhangadhi, people queued for hours at the lone functioning government petrol pump, as private outlets remain shut.
Officials confirmed that the Delhi government is in touch with Indian and Nepali embassies to ensure the safety of the passengers on board.
Military Patrols, Curfew Relaxation
While the situation in Kathmandu and parts of southern Nepal remains tense, authorities have relaxed curfew timings, allowing movement from 6 am to 11 am and 5 pm to 7 pm, as law enforcement and army patrols continue in sensitive zones.
The leadership tussle saw names such as Karki, Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, former NEA head Kulman Ghising, and Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang emerge as possible choices, but consensus appears to have coalesced around Karki.
With India monitoring the developments closely, New Delhi’s calibrated diplomatic and security outreach signals its intent to ensure regional stability while remaining non-interventionist.
About the Author
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
September 12, 2025, 11:22 IST
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