KP Sharma Oli Back At Helm In Nepal. What It means for India

Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli is all set to return as Prime Minister of Nepal.

A central figure in the Himalayan nation's political landscape for decades, Oli's journey began in the late 1960s when he joined the Communist Party of Nepal, becoming deeply involved in movements advocating for democracy and republicanism.

Photo Credit: PTI

Who is Khadga Prasad Sharma?

Born in 1952, KP Oli's early activism led to several arrests under Nepal's Public Offense Act, with his longest imprisonment lasting 14 years, starting in 1973.

During this time, he co-founded the Communist Party of Nepal (Marxist-Leninist), solidifying his role as a foundational leader within the party.

Released in 1987, Oli quickly resumed his political activities, assuming leadership roles within the CPN (M-L) and eventually contributing to the formation of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) in 1991.

His ascent continued as he was elected to Nepal's House of Representatives from Jhapa-6 in 1991, marking the beginning of his parliamentary career.

Over the years, Oli held various governmental positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs during Nepal's interim government from 2006 to 2007.

Impact On India-Nepal Ties

In 2018, Oli was sworn in as Nepal's 41st Prime Minister, a role he held amid both domestic and international challenges.

His leadership has been characterised by a nationalist stance, occasionally straining relations with neighboring India, particularly highlighted during the 2015 Nepal blockade, which Oli attributed to Indian interference.

He also faced criticism for updating Nepal's map to include disputed territories with India, actions that further complicated bilateral relations.

Enter The Dragon

Despite these controversies, Oli has stressed on Nepal's sovereignty and pursued closer ties with China, notably engaging with Beijing on projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

This stance has sparked concerns in India about Nepal's geopolitical alignment. However, Oli has also shown willingness to engage with India, acknowledging its role in Nepal's development and security.

Oli's return as Prime Minister in 2024 follows incumbent Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' failing to secure a vote of confidence in Parliament.

Oli, as chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), has garnered support from a coalition of lawmakers, positioning him to lead Nepal amid ongoing political volatility.