Daijiworld Media Network - Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Mar 29: The Nepal Army was deployed, and curfew was imposed in parts of Kathmandu on Friday after violent clashes erupted between pro-monarchy demonstrators and the police, leaving two dead, including a television cameraman, and over a dozen injured.
Thousands of supporters of former King Gyanendra took to the streets, demanding the restoration of the monarchy, which was abolished in 2008. As the rally intensified, police resorted to water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
The situation escalated when security forces fired tear gas near the stage where 87-year-old Nabaraj Subedi, convener of the pro-monarchy movement, was addressing the gathering. Subedi sustained injuries, triggering further unrest. Meanwhile, a fire broke out in Gairidhara, where security personnel were stationed. Cameraman Suresh Rajak, covering the protest for Avenues Television, was among the deceased.
Home Ministry sources confirmed that at least 15 people were injured in the clashes. Authorities have blamed rally commander Durga Prasai for inciting violence and have issued an arrest warrant against him.
In response to the turmoil, the Kathmandu district administration announced an immediate curfew covering key areas, including Shantinagar Bridge, Manohara River Bridge, Koteshwor, Tinkune, the airport area, Baneshwor Chowk, and Gaushala. Public gatherings, demonstrations, and sit-ins have been strictly prohibited during the curfew period.
While police cracked down on pro-monarchy protesters, a separate rally led by the Left Front, including former Prime Ministers Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Madhav Kumar Nepal, concluded peacefully. The Left leaders blamed Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s governance for the resurgence of pro-monarchy sentiments, warning that any attempt by Gyanendra to reclaim the throne would face severe consequences.
As tensions remain high, the government has assured strict action against those instigating unrest, while Nepal braces for further political uncertainty.