Authorities in Kathmandu have tightened security ahead of a protest by the pro-monarchist Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) on April 20, 2025, in response to the violent clashes that erupted during a similar demonstration last month. The police have ramped up their presence in sensitive areas, including Singha Durbar, the Parliament building, Maitighar Mandala, Baluwatar, and the President's Office, as they prepare for the potential unrest.
On March 28, 2025, a pro-monarchy demonstration in the Tinkune area turned violent, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to several others, including security personnel. In the aftermath, police arrested numerous individuals connected to the violence, with the total number of arrests now reaching 84. Among those detained, 22 are under investigation for sedition, as reported by Superintendent of Police Apilraj Bohara.
As the RPP prepares for today's protest at Bijuli Bazaar, party chairperson Rajendra Lingden has called for a peaceful demonstration, urging the government to remain calm. However, he warned that if authorities respond provocatively, the party members are prepared to face mass arrests. The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a statement reinforcing its stance against any form of anarchy, stating that security agencies are fully prepared to intervene if necessary.
Thousands of riot police are on standby, ready to enforce restrictions and prevent protesters from breaching prohibited areas. In contrast to the pro-monarchist rally, earlier in the day, tens of thousands of school teachers staged a separate demonstration in the Naya Baneshwor area, demanding reforms in the education sector and better pay.
The RPP rally today is expected to attract around 1,500 demonstrators who are determined to voice their demands for reinstating the monarchy and establishing Nepal as a Hindu state. Protesters have been heard chanting slogans such as "Down with the Republican system," "We want monarchy back," and "Down with corrupt government," while carrying placards to amplify their message.
Senior leaders of the RPP, including Pashupati Shumsher Rana and former Inspector General of Police Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan, are leading the demonstration. The party has expressed its intent to continue protesting until their demands are met, including the release of arrested leaders, the restoration of the monarchy, and the re-declaration of Nepal as a Hindu nation.
Following the violent events of March 28, in which pro-monarchy demonstrators clashed with police, vandalizing public property and setting vehicles on fire, authorities have been cautious. The police had used bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to a significant escalation in violence.
In the days following the Tinkune incident, police arrested several key figures associated with the RPP, including Durga Prasai, RPP Vice Chair Rabindra Mishra, and General Secretary Dhawal Shumsher Jabara. These arrests have only fueled the anger among royalists, who continue to rally for their cause.
As the RPP protests unfold, the tension in Kathmandu remains palpable, with citizens and authorities alike holding their breath in anticipation of how the day will progress. The government is keen to avoid a repeat of last month’s deadly clashes, and the police are prepared to act swiftly should any signs of unrest emerge.
In the midst of this political turmoil, the RPP's demands for the monarchy's reinstatement highlight a significant divide within Nepalese society regarding governance and national identity. With a history of royal rule, many supporters of the RPP believe that the monarchy represents stability and tradition in contrast to the current republican system.
As the protest develops, it will be crucial to observe how both the demonstrators and law enforcement respond to the heightened tensions. The stakes are high, and the potential for conflict looms large as the RPP pushes for its vision of Nepal's future.
