New Delhi, Sept. 10 -- For decades, India's foreign policy has rested on a principle of non-interference in the domestic affairs of its neighbours.

Rooted in the shared experience of anti-colonial struggles and a commitment to respecting national sovereignty, this approach has long served India well, preserving its image as a responsible regional power.

Yet, when the political crisis in Nepal spiralled into violence this week, with student protesters brandishing sophisticated weaponry in the streets and the army on the one hand calling for talks and preparing for decisive action to preserve law and order on the other, the old doctrine appeared ill-equipped and unresponsive.

Nepal's Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, was compelled to resign...