Nepali Ambassador to India delays return amid political change

KATHMANDU, July 18: Nepali Ambassador to India, Shankar Sharma, who was preparing to return to Kathmandu, has postponed his departure following the recent political developments. With the change in the ruling alliance in Nepal, discussions between Prime Minister KP Oli and Foreign Minister Dr Arju Rana Deuba led to the decision for Ambassador Sharma to remain in Delhi for the time being.

Sources indicate that amidst the evolving political landscape, there was a consensus that leaving the ambassadorial post in India vacant would not be prudent. As a result, Ambassador Sharma's tenure is likely to be extended, and his return to Kathmandu, along with his personal belongings has been put on hold.

Dr Sharma was initially appointed the ambassador to India during the Nepali Congress-Maoist coalition government. Following a shift in alliances and cooperation between the UML and the then ruling party, the Council of Ministers had decided to recall ambassadors from 11 countries, including India, the United States, and the United Kingdom. 

Despite being on the list for recall, the current political dynamics, which now involve the Nepali Congress party's potential role in the government, has brought uncertainty about his future tenure in India.