Balendra Shah, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Nepal, has sparked controversy after reports claimed he once displayed a map depicting parts of India as belonging to Nepal.
According to reports, Shah had earlier placed a controversial ‘Greater Nepal’ map in his office in June 2023 while serving as mayor of Kathmandu. The map reportedly showed Indian territories, including areas of Bihar, as part of Nepal.
Shah, who rose to prominence as a rapper before entering politics, was known for defeating opponents in underground rap battles before launching his political career.
During his tenure as Kathmandu’s mayor, Shah gained attention for his anti-corruption drive and urban reforms. He initiated campaigns to demolish illegal structures, live-streamed municipal council meetings to promote transparency and advocated for the preservation of indigenous heritage in the city.
He also drew attention for adopting a strongly nationalist stance in dealing with Nepal’s two large neighbours, India and China.
Reports said the ‘Greater Nepal’ map displayed by Shah was seen as a response to the ‘Akhand Bharat’ map displayed in the new building of the Parliament of India. The map in India depicted an ancient Indian civilisation that included regions corresponding to present-day Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal.
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