Kathmandu, Feb. 4 -- A legal challenge against the long-term power trade agreement signed between Nepal and India has raised questions about whether the deal is really motivated by national interest or normal bilateral economic relations are being politicised.

Dispute over the agreement stems from the controversy over other water resources-related treaties signed with the southern neighbour such as Koshi, Gandak and Mahakali river treaties.

The two countries signed the 25-year power trade agreement in early January during Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Nepal. Under the agreement, India has promised to buy 10,000MW of power from Nepal in 10 years, guaranteeing a long-term market for Nepal's electricity.

But former gover...