Amid applause, selfies, KP Oli addresses Nepal diaspora

Oli, who entered the lawns shortly after 6.30 pm, was showered with rose petals as the crowd chanted “K P Oli Zindabad” and “Rashtriya Ekta zindabad”. The event, for which people turned up with their families, including young children, was far cry from the protests by some Madhesi groups where black flags were shown outside the embassy.

“Something like this has not happened in India in recent memory, when a Nepalese PM addressed a reception of Nepalese residents in the country,” a diplomat at the Nepal Embassy told The Indian Express.

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During his speech, which was punctuated by applause, Oli thanked India for the prompt support and relief after the massive earthquake last April. However, he described Nepal’s new constitution as “ahead by a step” when compared to others in the world.

“There were difficult circumstances… but now, a new era of cooperation will start, a new atmosphere has been created,” he said while talking about his meeting with PM Modi. As many recorded his speech and clicked pictures on their cellphones, Oli told them with great pride about being hosted by President Pranab Mukherjee at his residence. He is only the third visiting dignitary to stay at the renovated guest wing of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Oli was mobbed by fellow citizens who took selfies with him.

As Oli’s motorcade left the building, Sunil Thapa, who had come from Dwarka with his family, said: “He made me proud… I hope India doesn’t treat Nepal badly any more.”

“India is like our second home. Last few months, it was very difficult for our people in Nepal, I hope things improve now,” said Manisha Chhetri, who had come with her friends.

Earlier, when asked about playing the China card, Oli had said: “I don’t play cards…both are neighbours and we have equally friendly feelings for them.” On demands by the Madhesis, he said: “If somebody tells us, if there is any discrimination, we have an open mind. The constitution of Nepal is a dynamic document, not a rigid one.” He added: “I will go back and ask them why are they unhappy again. We have an open mind…will address if there are any genuine demands.”

Oli’s day also included a visit to the Tehri dam. He will visit Bhuj and Mumbai in the next few days.