Nepal witnessed a major outbreak of violence as supporters of former King Gyanendra Shah took to the streets demanding the reinstatement of the constitutional monarchy. The protest, which began as a peaceful demonstration, quickly escalated into violent clashes in the capital city of Kathmandu. Security forces had to intervene as agitators resorted to stone-pelting, arson, and looting, creating panic and chaos in several parts of the city.
The violence resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a television cameraman and a protester, while at least 112 others sustained injuries. Authorities stated that the clashes intensified when protesters attempted to march towards the Parliament building, forcing security forces to use rubber bullets, live rounds fired in the air, tear gas, and water cannons to control the situation. The unrest prompted the government to deploy the Nepalese Army, and a curfew was imposed in affected areas of Kathmandu from 4:25 PM on Friday until 7:00 AM on Saturday to restore order.
According to officials, 105 agitators have been arrested so far for their involvement in arson, vandalism, and other violent activities. Among those detained are Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) General Secretary Dhawal Shumsher Rana and central committee member Rabindra Mishra. The protest, led by prominent monarchist leader Durga Prasai, turned aggressive when Prasai broke through security barricades in a bulletproof vehicle and attempted to lead the demonstration towards Baneshwor, where Nepal’s Parliament building is located. Following the violence, Prasai remains at large, and authorities have launched a manhunt to apprehend him.
Police reports indicate that protesters vandalized offices of political parties, set vehicles ablaze, and looted shops in different areas of Kathmandu. Security forces had to resort to extreme measures to prevent further escalation. The demonstrators, many of whom are associated with Nepal’s monarchist movement, are demanding the revival of the monarchy and the declaration of Nepal as a Hindu kingdom, reversing the country’s transition to a secular, federal democratic republic.
The incident has raised serious concerns about Nepal’s internal stability and the growing influence of pro-monarchy sentiments in the country. The government is under pressure to address the demands of monarchist supporters while ensuring law and order. The situation remains tense as authorities continue investigations and search operations to track down those responsible for inciting violence.
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