The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) staged a large protest in Kathmandu on Sunday. The party is demanding the return of the monarchy and the reinstatement of Nepal as a Hindu state. This protest took place near key government buildings, including the Prime Minister’s residence and Parliament.
Around 1,500 supporters joined the rally at Bijulibajar-Baneshwor. They carried signs and shouted slogans like “Down with the Republican system” and “We want monarchy back.” RPP Chairman Rajendra Lingden led the event. Senior leaders Pashupati Shumsher Rana and Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan also took part.
Strict Security Around Government Areas
The Home Ministry had warned against entering restricted areas. These zones include Singha Durbar, where top government offices are located. However, the RPP publicly announced its plan to cross these barriers.
On April 19, the Home Ministry made its position clear. It stated that anyone breaking these rules would face legal action. Spokesperson Ram Chandra Tiwari said, “We won’t tolerate actions that break the law or spread chaos.”
As a result, security forces filled the city. Police guarded sensitive spots like Parliament, Maitighar, Baluwatar, and Naya Baneshwor.
Protesters Arrested Near Restricted Zones
Although the protest stayed peaceful, some leaders tried to push into restricted areas. Superintendent of Police Apil Bohara confirmed that seven people were arrested. Among them were Rajendra Lingden, Buddhiman Tamang, and Gyanendra Shahi.
Police caught them handing out leaflets and shouting slogans. They were taken to the Kathmandu Police Range in Bhadrakali.
After the arrests, protesters stepped back. That evening, the RPP held an emergency meeting. The party demanded the release of its leaders. It also promised to continue fighting for its goals.
Political Tension on the Rise
This protest was not the first of its kind. In March 2025, a similar rally in Tinkune turned violent. Sadly, two people died, including journalist Suresh Rajak. Over 100 others, including police officers, got hurt.
Because of that event, the stakes for Sunday’s protest were high.
Leaders Call for Unity
Amid rising tensions, Nepal’s top leaders held a meeting on April 17, 2025. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, and CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal discussed the unrest.
They agreed that democratic and republican forces must work together. Their goal is to protect the current political system.
Other Protests in the Capital
On the same day, tens of thousands of school teachers marched in Naya Baneshwor. They demanded better pay, improved benefits, and reforms in the education sector.
This protest showed that discontent in Nepal isn’t limited to politics. Different groups across the country are speaking up for their rights.
What Happens Next?
It’s still unclear how the government will respond. The RPP remains firm in its demands. The party wants to restore the monarchy and declare Nepal a Hindu state.
Meanwhile, the government says it will stick to the secular, democratic system. New protests are likely in the coming weeks as tensions grow.
