ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the developments that led to the formation of the modern-day Nepali Congress. It talks about the traditional political systems and historical landscape in Nepal that led to the democratic experiments which birthed the modern Nepal. It examines the democratic attrition among political parties in general and the Nepali Congress in particular. Was it inevitable or was it because of the clash between styles and personalities of the two senior Koirala brothers? Was the social and organizational base of the Nepali Congress strong enough to sustain the liberation struggle at its own? How did it fail to cash in such an instant support in its hours of crisis? The chapter touches upon the attempt to decentralizes power in Nepal and retells the triumphs and tragedy of the Nepali Congress as it unfolded.
