What makes a Nepali?

Defining Nepali Identity

The recent protests and formation of a new government in Nepal have sparked discussions about what it means to be Nepali.

After the GenZ protests, youth collectives called for a diverse Council of Ministers, including women, youth, and people from various ethnic and socio-cultural backgrounds.

When Sangeeta Mishra, a bureaucrat and public health expert, was appointed as Health Minister, a video surfaced of her calling herself "Nepali, but a native Indian", revealing her naturalized Nepali citizenship.

Mishra said, "Nepali, but a native Indian"

This sparked outrage in the ultra-nationalistic online community, leading to Mishra's name being withdrawn from the list of ministers due to an ongoing investigation.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki's Cabinet remains incomplete, with plans to induct GenZ ministers.

Author's summary: Nepal's identity debated amidst protests.

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Nepali Times Nepali Times — 2025-10-16

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