Nepal Unrest: Violent Clashes Over Demand for Monarchy, Curfew Imposed in Several Areas
Protests Turn Violent in Kathmandu, One Dead
Nepal has witnessed violent protests as pro-monarchy supporters demand the reinstatement of the monarchy and the declaration of Nepal as a Hindu state. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators in Kathmandu have resulted in at least one fatality. Protesters have set houses and vehicles on fire, while also pelting stones at security personnel. In response, the police have used tear gas to disperse the crowds.
A few days ago, large-scale demonstrations were held, with protesters waving the national flag alongside images of former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah.
Buildings and Vehicles Set Ablaze by Uncontrolled Mob
The demand for restoring the monarchy has gained momentum in recent days. Many protesters are calling for Nepal to be declared a Hindu state once again and for Gyanendra Shah to be reinstated as king. Amid growing unrest, mobs have vandalized buildings and torched vehicles. Several police officers have sustained injuries in the violence. In response, authorities have imposed curfews in multiple areas and deployed the military in sensitive regions. Nepal officially abolished its monarchy in 2008.
Flights Diverted and Canceled Amid Unrest
The deteriorating security situation in Kathmandu has led to the diversion and cancellation of multiple flights at Tribhuvan International Airport. Authorities have denied landing permission to flights from Bangkok (AirAsia), Dhaka (Biman Bangladesh Airlines), Dubai (FlyDubai), and Seoul (Korean Air), redirecting them for emergency landings in India. Additionally, outbound flights from Kathmandu to Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (FlyDubai), and Kuala Lumpur (Batik Air) have been canceled.
Emergency Security Meeting Called by Home Ministry
In light of the ongoing violence, Nepal’s Home Ministry has convened an emergency meeting with top security officials. Sources indicate that the Nepalese government may hold former King Gyanendra accountable for inciting the unrest.
Stone Pelting and Police Response
Videos circulating on social media show protesters throwing stones at security forces, prompting police to retaliate with tear gas. As of now, there have been no official reports of severe injuries or additional fatalities.
Counter-Protests in Support of the Republic
In response to the monarchy supporters, a coalition of four political parties—including the CPN-Maoist Center and CPN-Unified Socialist—has organized rallies in favor of Nepal’s democratic system. These parties are mobilizing counter-protesters to defend the republic and oppose the monarchy movement. To maintain order, security has been heightened across Kathmandu as both groups continue their demonstrations.
Former King’s Image Featured in Protests
On March 9, pro-monarchy demonstrators held widespread rallies, carrying Nepal’s national flag and displaying images of former King Gyanendra. Addressing the movement, Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah stated that he is willing to serve Nepal again if the people desire his return.
PM Oli: “The Return of Monarchy is Impossible”
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba recently dismissed the possibility of reinstating the monarchy. CPN-Maoist Center Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ also criticized former King Gyanendra, urging him to stop misleading the people. He suggested that if the former king believes he has public support, he should form a political party and contest elections.
Meanwhile, supporters of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) argue that corruption in the current democratic system has reached alarming levels, making the reinstatement of the monarchy necessary.
Nepal Was a Monarchy Until 2008
Nepal remained a monarchy until 2008, after which the Narayanhiti Palace in Kathmandu was converted into a museum. On March 6, former King Gyanendra Shah unveiled a statue of late King Birendra Shah in Pokhara, where thousands of supporters gathered and even sang the old royal anthem. Notably, a large portion of the monarchy supporters are young Nepalese citizens.
Stay tuned for further updates on the situation in Nepal.
