New Delhi: Tensions flare up in Nepal’s capital as Kathmandu remains tense following the Rastriya Prajatantra Party’s (RPP) push for the restoration of Nepal’s monarchy. Thousands gathered in Balkhu on Tuesday under the slogan “Let’s change the system to change the situation,” demanding not only the return of the monarchy but also the release of detained leaders and activists.
The protest, led by RPP Chair Rajendra Lingden and backed by the Joint People’s Movement, turned volatile as security forces deployed over 2,000 personnel to maintain control following similar protests that occurred last month. The latest protest comes in the wake of the deadly March 28 demonstration in Tinkune, where violent clashes resulted in two deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Key RPP figures, including Vice President Rabindra Mishra, General Secretary Dhawal Shumsher Rana, and Joint People’s Movement coordinator Nabaraj Subedi, were arrested following the incident. Kathmandu District Court has since extended the detention of 39 individuals involved. The growing tension between royalist factions and the government has reached the Parliament.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli condemned the RPP’s actions, even hinting at possible legal action against former King Gyanendra Shah for the March 28 protests, if he’s found guilty. This sparked further dissent in the House, with Lingden accusing the ruling parties of corruption and misgovernance since the monarchy’s abolition in 2008. He also alleged that security forces used expired tear gas during the Tinkune unrest and called for a judicial probe.
