ThePrint

Regime change can always be a democratic aspiration. But it will take more to achieve it than a few days of protests, riots and arson. What the collapse in Kathmandu with just one push underlines to us is that it was a non-functional state. It had an elected government, but its leaders did not have the first prerequisite for governance: democratic patience. Could this happen in India? A regime change through any “tool kit”? A quick way to explain why it can’t happen is to remind ourselves that constitutional democracies do not have a ‘regime.’ Read this weeks National Interest here: https://theprint.in/national-interest/gen-z-nepal-bangladesh-sri-lanka-pakistan-india/2742136/

Nepal witnesses a historic shift as Sushila Karki becomes the first woman Chief Justice and interim head of government. This pivotal moment reflects the political turmoil following the Prime Minister's resignation and widespread protests for change. The discussion delves into the significance of Karki's leadership amid a power vacuum and the urgent calls for inclusive governance, marking a new chapter in the country's political landscape.

The nominee for U.S. Envoy to India, Sergio Gor, is making waves as the youngest ambassador at just 38 years old. With a Soviet background, his insights on India-U.S. ties are particularly fascinating, highlighting the need to overcome protectionist barriers. The podcast delves into Gor's rapid ascent in the Trump administration and his views on crucial issues, including defense collaboration and the importance of the Indian diaspora. Discussions also touch on the evolving dynamics of youthful leadership in U.S. diplomacy.

Delve into the complex historical roots of Nepal's current crisis, where misunderstandings about Indian influence are rife. Explore the evolution of Nepal's monarchy, detailing its decline and the emergence of democratic movements. Gain insights into the role of the military during political transitions, and witness the vibrancy of young leadership and activism fueled by Gen Z. With voices like Balen Shah leading the charge, youth engagement in Nepal's socio-political landscape is more vibrant than ever.

Explore the dramatic expulsion of Anbumani from the PMK by his own father, the party founder. Tensions arise from allegations of anti-party activities, highlighting deep familial conflicts and differing political strategies. The implications for the party's future and electoral prospects in Tamil Nadu are significant, making this a pivotal moment in the PMK's history.

The podcast delves into the alarming rise of jailbreaks in Nepal amidst escalating protests. It highlights the chaos following a government ousting, painting a vivid picture of inmates executing strategic escapes. The strain on military and police forces to maintain order is palpable. Additionally, the tightening of India's border security adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding crisis, emphasizing the regional implications of this unrest.

Swasti Rao, a consulting editor for strategic and international affairs, offers insights from Poland amid rising geopolitical tensions. She dives into NATO's military responses to Russian drone incursions, underscoring Poland's growing significance in European security. Discussion includes Poland's robust defense spending, its strategic U.S. partnerships, and the complexities of its political scene. Rao also delves into the historical context of these security threats, revealing the nation's evolution in navigating a tumultuous region.

The podcast dives into the complex history of US-India relations, highlighting the role of intelligence cooperation in overcoming political challenges. It reflects on how the early efforts of India's first intelligence chief helped lay the foundation for strong ties. The discussion also touches on past Cold War dynamics and the possibility of leveraging these connections for future diplomacy. Overall, it illustrates how enduring intelligence relationships can withstand even the most turbulent times.

Nepal is grappling with political upheaval and the fallout from a government collapse. Youth frustration is boiling over due to job scarcity and the recent social media ban, sparking widespread protests. The electoral system’s complexity and the push for gender representation add further layers to the situation. With fragile alliances among political parties, the youth are increasingly disillusioned. Comparisons to unrest in neighboring countries highlight the urgency of addressing deep-rooted corruption and instability.

BJP leaders are feeling sidelined in the presidential election, sparking unrest within the party. The selection of a new president is crucial, as it affects leadership dynamics and the potential succession of Modi and Shah. Key figures like Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath are vying for influence, highlighting a competitive internal landscape. The necessity for accountability and democratic values in choosing a new leader could shape the party's future identity and direction.