Nepal Finance Minister Wagle sparks controversy over India remarks

Nepal’s Finance Minister, Dr. Swarnim Wagle, has drawn criticism following remarks made during the NDTV World Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Addressing the summit, Wagle stated that the era of Nepali nationalism being defined by anti-India sentiment has ended.

Wagle, who is also the vice-chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), emphasized that the new leadership aims to strengthen ties with India, citing deep cultural and geographical connections. He noted that the younger generation prioritizes economic prosperity, good governance, and positive relations with neighbors over previous ideological narratives.

The comments have been met with backlash from political opponents. Kamal Thapa, leader of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and former foreign minister, described the remarks as a “blatant devaluation of Nepali nationalism.” Thapa argued that expressing concerns regarding border encroachment or blockades is not anti-India sentiment but a matter of national sovereignty. CPN-UML leader Gokul Baskota also criticized the statement.