Nepal, July 22 -- "It is unfortunate that Nepalis still lack an organization capable of fulfilling the aspirations of the modern age. Some local organizations with limited objectives certainly exist, but the need of the time is for an all-India organization that also represents Nepal."

This was part of an appeal issued by BP Koirala in 1946, calling for the formation of a political party. Nearly eight decades later, the Nepali Congress (NC), founded by BP Koirala and his colleagues, is observing the 44th anniversary of his death on Wednesday.

While party leaders and cadres will pay floral tributes to BP and praise his legacy, the party itself is facing one of the deepest crises in its history. Critics say NC leaders have placed persona...