11th September 2025, Kathmandu
Who is Sushila Karki? She holds a unique and powerful place in Nepal’s history as the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Her appointment in April 2016 (Baisakh 2073 BS) was a monumental step not only for the judiciary but also for the broader movement toward gender equality and women’s empowerment in Nepal. Celebrated for her fearless judgments, unwavering honesty, and independent leadership, Karki’s legacy continues to inspire a nation hungry for justice and accountability.
Early Life and Path to the Bench
Born in the Bhojpur district, Sushila Karki demonstrated a strong academic aptitude from a young age. She pursued her higher education in India, earning a Master’s degree in Political Science from Banaras Hindu University (BHU). She later studied law (LL.B.), which ultimately paved the way for her distinguished judicial career.
Before her entry into the legal profession, she briefly worked as a lecturer, but her passion for justice and her commitment to the rule of law led her to legal practice—a decision that would forever shape Nepal’s judicial landscape.
A Judicial Career Defined by Courage
Karki began her journey as an advocate and was appointed as a Justice to the Supreme Court of Nepal in 1992 (2049 BS). Over two decades, she built a reputation for fairness and resilience, consistently demonstrating her ability to stand firm in the face of immense pressure.
Her historic rise culminated in her official appointment as the first woman Chief Justice of Nepal on April 23, 2016. Though her tenure lasted only 10 months, Sushila Karki left an indelible mark on the nation’s judiciary through her bold and precedent-setting decisions.
Landmark Decisions and Major Contributions
Karki’s tenure was characterized by a series of landmark rulings that cemented her reputation as a “tough judge” and a champion of good governance.
A Strong Stand Against Corruption: She earned widespread respect for her historic ruling against Lokman Singh Karki, the then-Chief of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA). Her courageous verdict exposed corruption at the highest level and solidified her image as a leader of integrity.
Protection of Human Rights: Karki consistently adopted a strict stance on human rights violations, especially those perpetrated by state institutions. She issued crucial orders to address the grievances of conflict-era victims and championed cases involving disappeared persons and marginalized groups, ensuring justice for the voiceless.
Strengthening Good Governance: Her rulings consistently reinforced accountability and transparency in public offices. She held ministries, government departments, and public officials responsible under the rule of law, making her a powerful symbol of judicial integrity.
Resistance to Political Interference: Sushila Karki was an open and vocal resistor of political pressure on the judiciary. By safeguarding judicial independence, she ensured that verdicts were based solely on the constitution and legal principles, not political influence.
Challenges and Enduring Legacy
Despite her immense achievements, Karki’s tenure was not without its challenges. She faced a controversial impeachment motion in Parliament, a move that sparked nationwide debate. However, many Nepalis, particularly the youth and civil society, rallied behind her, further highlighting her public support and impeccable reputation. This episode only served to underscore the political pressures that the judiciary faces in Nepal.
Sushila Karki’s rise to the highest judicial office is a historic milestone for women in Nepal. She proved that with integrity, dedication, and determination, women can achieve leadership roles in even the most male-dominated fields. Her career not only advanced the cause of justice and good governance but also became a beacon of hope for future generations of women leaders.
Conclusion: The Significance of Sushila Karki
While her time as Chief Justice was brief, Karki’s contribution to Nepal’s legal system was profound. She not only strengthened public trust in the judiciary but also became a pivotal role model for young lawyers and activists. Her verdicts continue to shape critical discussions on anti-corruption, governance, and human rights in the country.
Sushila Karki remains a revered figure—remembered not just as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, but as a fearless and principled leader who stood firm for justice.
Her story is a powerful reminder that courage and integrity can indeed change the course of a nation’s history, and she continues to be a source of inspiration for those fighting for a more just and accountable society.
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