Nepal's Constitutional Foundations between Revolution and Cold War (1950–60)

The 1950s represent a foundational decade in Nepal's constitutional history. In the wake of decolonization British India, “year 7 revolution” (1950–51) grew out alliance between King Tribhuvan Shah and democratic political parties created India against Rana autocratic regime Kathmandu. Eventually pro-democracy forces prevailed, crucial transition began. Two constitutions were promulgated, 1951 Interim Constitution 1959 Constitution. Both short lived only partially implemented, these documents, however, laid foundations edifice for years to come. building became marker sovereignty understood terms independence an assertion popular sovereignty. However, fraught Cold War context, preoccupation with securing stability by means that centered around monarchy even at expense democracy. As such, shift from traditional notion above modern concept below remained incomplete. These aspirations, not extinguished 30 royal autocracy under Panchayat (1960–90) on this day inform demands reform, democratization, inclusion. present analysis is based Nepali primary legal sources, archival material United Kingdom States National Archives, Ivor Jennings Private Papers.