Nepali Minister's Effigy burned by student unions in protest of power chief's removal

Mar 25, 2025

Kathmandu (Nepal), Mar 25 (ANI): The All Nepal National Free Students Union (ANNSU - Unified Socialist) burned an effigy of Energy Minister Deepak Khadka to protest the removal of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) Chief Kulman Ghising. The Council of Ministers dismissed Ghising, known for ending power cuts, citing poor performance. Hitendradev Shakya, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s brother-in-law, was appointed as his replacement, sparking criticism. The cabinet repeatedly sought explanations after the minister failed to remove Kulman Ghising, ultimately rating his performance poorly to justify his dismissal. Ghising, praised for ending 18-hour power cuts, has strong public support. Tensions grew between him and Energy Minister Deepak Khadka, and in March, the Ministry gave him a zero in his performance evaluation.