The political dilemma in Madhesh Province deepened on Tuesday after Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Yadav announced he would face a vote of confidence on Wednesday afternoon, following the Supreme Court’s directive requiring him to do so within 24 hours.

Speaking at a press conference in Janakpur, Yadav said that although the court had instructed him to seek the vote within 24 hours, he received the official order only at 3pm on Tuesday. “On that basis, I will seek the confidence vote at 2pm on Wednesday. I have already sent a formal request to the Provincial Assembly Secretariat,” he said.

Yadav expressed confidence in retaining his position. “I will secure the vote of confidence. UML helped government formation in Madhesh before, and all those parties will support me,” he said.

The Supreme Court’s ruling has once again unsettled provincial politics, raising questions over government stability and the alignment of coalition partners. The order states that if Yadav fails to obtain the trust vote, the provincial head must initiate government formation under Article 168(2) of the constitution.

Tensions among parties have risen as they prepare for the crucial vote. Several coalition partners have been holding internal discussions, while opposition lawmakers remain on alert.

The latest crisis follows a series of disputes over Yadav’s appointment under Article 168(3), which had earlier resulted in the dismissal of the then province chief and the Speaker.