The Nepal government has reduced the security detail of former King Gyanendra Shah. This comes after ruling coalition members called for his arrest following violent clashes at pro-monarchy protests in Kathmandu.
Ruling Coalition Calls for Arrest
On Sunday, March 30, Nepal’s ruling coalition demanded the arrest of former King Gyanendra Shah. Lawmakers from the CPN-UML and Nepali Congress raised the issue in Parliament, blaming the former king for inciting unrest. The move triggered protests from the pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), leading to a heated debate in the House of Representatives.
The session had to be adjourned due to the chaos. Pro-monarchy lawmakers accused the government of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli for using excessive force against demonstrators. RPP leader Kamal Thapa defended the movement, saying, “The government can arrest me anytime because I am a monarchist.”
Violence Erupts at Pro-Monarchy Protest
The demand for Gyanendra Shah’s arrest follows violent clashes during a pro-monarchy rally on March 29. Thousands gathered in Kathmandu, demanding the restoration of Nepal’s Hindu monarchy. Security forces and protesters clashed in the streets, leading to injuries and arrests.
According to reports, at least two people, including a TV cameraman, were killed in the violence. Over 110 others sustained injuries, and 110 people were arrested. Protesters set fires to public properties, including an oil corporation depot and a shopping mall. Some even tried to breach a restricted area near the international airport.
Prime Minister Oli condemned the violence, calling it an attempt to disrupt social harmony. He accused the former king of working with individuals who refused to repay bank loans. He also blamed him for trying to divide society for personal ambitions.
Government Scales Down Gyanendra Shah’s Security
As tensions rise, the Nepal government has cut Gyanendra Shah’s security team. On Sunday, the number of security personnel at his residence, Nirmal Niwas, was reduced from 25 to 16.
Government sources indicate that placing him under house arrest is also being considered. The CPN-UML is pressuring the Oli administration to take strong action against the former king.
Former King’s Speech Sparks Controversy
The demand for Gyanendra Shah’s arrest intensified after his speech on Democracy Day (February 19). In a video message, he hinted at restoring the monarchy. This statement fueled tensions between pro-monarchy groups and the government.
Officials argue that his speech encouraged the protests, which later turned violent. Oli’s government insists that anyone attempting to overthrow the current system will face legal consequences.
Public Reaction and Political Divide
The political divide in Nepal is growing. Monarchists claim that democracy has failed to bring stability and development. They argue that corruption and mismanagement have worsened under the republic system.
On the other hand, ruling party members stress that Nepal has moved forward since the monarchy’s abolition in 2008. They believe reinstating the monarchy would be a step backward.
Political experts note that Gyanendra Shah still holds influence among conservative groups. His supporters see him as a symbol of national identity, while his critics view him as a threat to democracy.
Government’s Next Steps
The Home Ministry has announced a detailed report on the protests. Authorities are investigating the cause of the violence and will decide further actions soon.
Oli has assured that those involved in illegal activities, including arson and vandalism, will face legal action. “Setting fire to a shopping mall or a company is not a political movement,” he said.
Meanwhile, security forces remain on high alert to prevent further unrest. Protests in support of the monarchy continue in different parts of the country.
