Kathmandu, July 26 -- On Thursday, Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma left for India on a four-day official visit following an invitation from his Indian counterpart, Surya Kant. Senior-most Justice Sapna Pradhan Malla saw him off at Tribhuvan International Airport, marking her first public appearance alongside Sharma since his appointment. During his absence, Malla assumed the responsibility of acting chief justice, taking charge of the Supreme Court leadership on Friday.

The warm send-off at the airport sparked speculation within legal circles about a potential reconciliation between the two top justices. Malla's presence was viewed by some as an attempt to mend working relations and move forward together with Chief Justice Sharma.

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