Deuba faction’s Hindu line opens new fault line in Nepali Congress

Former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba's emphatic declaration of his Hindu faith has opened a new ideological rift within Nepal's Nepali Congress party. Deuba, speaking at a three-day gathering of a party faction, stated, "I am a Hindu, I am a Hindu, I am a Hindu." He also stressed that his personal faith did not preclude respect for other religions or Nepal's religious freedom, mentioning his reverence for Buddhism and nature-based faiths.

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I am a Hindu, I am a Hindu, I am a Hindu.

The gathering concluded with a five-point declaration that included promoting Sanatan religion as a national identity while pledging to protect Hindu, Buddhist, Kirat, and nature-based faiths, along with religious freedom for all. This religious provision was reportedly added at the last minute, absent from an earlier 20-point conclusion that described Nepal as a multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious, and multicultural country.

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And I have love and reverence for Buddha and Buddhism. The world today recognises Buddhism. Today, Buddhism is also referred to as a scientific religion and is regarded as such. Likewise, ours is a country that respects nature-based religions. The Rai and Limbu communities follow nature-based religions, and we must respect all of them. I respect them.

Political analysts suggest this shift marks a departure from the party's post-2015 constitutional position defining Nepal as a secular state. The move is seen as an attempt by Deuba to establish a distinct political identity, particularly after losing leadership control to Gagan Thapa. "The decision to adopt the Hindu line may have been driven by Deuba’s search for political and personal security," noted political analyst Krishna Khanal, questioning the emphasis on religion.

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The decision to adopt the Hindu line may have been driven by Deuba’s search for political and personal security.