Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that he spoke to interim Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki and "conveyed heartfelt condolences on the recent tragic loss of lives" in the wake of the massive anti-corruption protests across the Himalayan nation that toppled the previous KP Oli Sharma-led government.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said that he also "reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability".

This is PM Modi's first conversation with Karki, a former Chief Justice who was sworn in as Nepal's first woman Prime Minister on September 12 at the recommendation of the Gen Z protesters to head the interim government.

She assumed office on Sunday.

The unrest was triggered by a government ban on social media and quickly evolved into a larger campaign against corruption and perceived political apathy. At least 74 people have died in the unrest.

Karki's appointment to lead the Himalayan nation ended days of political uncertainty after Oli stepped down on September 9 shortly after hundreds of protesters entered his office demanding his resignation.

She has declared all those killed in the protests as "martyrs".

On Wednesday, Nepal observed a national day of mourning to honour the protest victims. While all government offices and educational institutions remained closed, candlelight vigils were held in several parts of Nepal, including Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, where protests took place on September 8.

All government offices and Nepali missions abroad flew the national flag at half-mast.

Source: India Today