Kathmandu/Shimla/Dehradun/New Delhi— Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki—Nepal’s first woman to hold the post—has emerged as the preferred choice of the Gen Z protesters as they seek an interim leader, according to news reports.
The protests, which erupted after the government banned dozens of social media platforms, have turned deadly.
At least 35 people have been killed and nearly 1,000 are undergoing treatment in hospitals for injuries sustained during the violent clashes.
The youth movement, largely driven by Gen Z, accuses the political class of deep-rooted corruption, nepotism, and unaccountability.
Their prime target has been outgoing left-leaning Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, who ruled Nepal for over a decade, a period that protesters say was marked by corruption, nepotism and misuse of power.
Karki, respected for her integrity and fierce anti-corruption stance, has reportedly accepted the call to lead an interim administration.
Protesters believe her neutral image makes her the best option to guide Nepal through its political crisis.
India’s response:
New Delhi has tightened security along the Indo-Nepal border, issued travel advisories, and is keeping a close watch on developments. Indian leaders have appealed for calm and urged the Nepali establishment to ensure peace and protect citizens’ rights.
With Oli gone and the streets still on fire, Nepal’s fragile democracy faces a defining moment, with protesters pushing for systemic change and an interim leadership that reflects their demands.
WHY Justice Sushila Karki?
Justice Sushila Karki created history in 2016 by becoming the first woman Chief Justice of Nepal.
Known for her integrity and bold judgments, she stood firm against corruption and defended constitutional values even in the face of political pressure.
Born in Biratnagar in 1952, Karki studied Political Science at Bananas Hindu University and Law at Tribhuvan University before rising through the legal profession to join the Supreme Court in 2009.
As Chief Justice (2016–2017), she steered the judiciary during Nepal’s turbulent political transition.
A controversial impeachment bid against her in 2017, later withdrawn, only cemented her image as a fearless judge unwilling to bend.
After retirement, she authored the memoir Nyaya Harayeko Desh, laying bare the challenges of Nepal’s judiciary.
Karki remains a symbol of judicial independence, women’s empowerment, and courage in the face of power.
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