Shashi Tharoor On India-Nepal Ties: “India’s Big Brother Attitude Towards Nepal..."

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor calls for a shift in India’s approach towards Nepal, stressing the importance of treating Kathmandu as a sovereign and equal partner. Reflecting on the 2015 blockade episode and India-Nepal ties, Tharoor says the relationship must go beyond the familiar “Roti-Beti” framework and be built on mutual respect and dialogue. Tharoor also recalls a memorable exchange from 1971, when Nepal’s Foreign Minister reportedly described India as a “brother” and Pakistan as a “friend”, adding: “You can’t choose your brothers.” He argues that while India and Nepal share a deep bond, India must earn Nepal’s friendship by respecting its sovereignty and equality.