General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Gagan Thapa, recently visited Uttar Pradesh, India, for a confidential meeting with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This visit has sparked a new wave of diplomatic discourse in Nepal-India relations. Interestingly, this meeting follows the unsuccessful diplomatic visit to Delhi by Foreign Minister Arzu Rana, which further complicated the dynamics of Nepal-India relations. Though kept under wraps, the visit carries significant diplomatic implications.

Background of the Visit

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana's recent visit to Delhi was focused on engaging with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. However, the apparent failure of her efforts hinted at India's growing dissatisfaction with Nepal’s government. This discontent was particularly fueled by Nepal's agreement with China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which exacerbated India’s concerns.

The BRI agreement saw the pivotal involvement of legal expert Sement Dahal, known for his proximity to Gagan Thapa. Dahal contributed extensively to the structural planning of the BRI agreement, advocating for Nepal to keep both grant and loan options open. His efforts elevated Nepal-China relations to a new level and also played a critical role in Nepal's constitutional amendments.

Dipak Karki’s Role

Dipak Karki, a contractor from the Banke region, played a crucial role in arranging the meeting between Gagan Thapa and Yogi Adityanath. Karki coordinated with Indian counterparts to ensure the meeting's success, effectively enabling Thapa to gain access to India’s senior leadership through Yogi Adityanath.

Significance of the Meeting

Yogi Adityanath is considered a close ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By engaging with Yogi, Gagan Thapa aimed to ease the growing tensions between the two nations. This meeting is seen as an opportunity for the Nepali Congress to mend ties with India and improve bilateral relations.

India's Concerns and Thapa's Efforts

India’s dissatisfaction stems from Nepal’s increasing collaboration with China and the instability of Nepal’s foreign policy during the Oli administration. Gagan Thapa’s visit is viewed as a strategic move to address these issues, helping the Nepali Congress strengthen ties with India while countering the ruling government’s diplomatic shortcomings.

Collaboration with Sement Dahal

Sement Dahal’s close association with Gagan Thapa further bolsters Thapa’s diplomatic influence. Dahal’s active role in constitutional amendments and the BRI agreement positions him as a key figure in shaping Nepal’s legal and diplomatic landscape, enhancing the impact of Thapa’s political maneuvers.

Conclusion

Gagan Thapa’s visit is regarded as a strategic diplomatic move to improve Nepal-India relations amidst growing tensions. The Nepali Congress’ proactive role in addressing India’s concerns signals a potential turning point in Nepal’s internal politics. Furthermore, the evolving relationship between General Secretary Gagan Thapa and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana has garnered attention. After returning from her visit to India, Minister Rana was welcomed by Thapa in Chisapani, Kailali, highlighting the strengthening ties between the two leaders. This burgeoning camaraderie could have significant implications for Nepal’s diplomatic and political landscape.