This is What Happened in the Pro-Monarchy Protest in Kathmandu

This is What Happened in the Pro-Monarchy Protest in Kathmandu

Kathmandu witnessed violent clashes on Friday as pro-monarchy demonstrators took to the streets demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy.

This is What Happened in the Pro-Monarchy Protest in Kathmandu

The protest, led by the Joint People’s Movement Committee under the leadership of Navaraj Subedi, turned chaotic, leading to extensive property damage, injuries, and the tragic death of a journalist.

Journalist Dies in Fire Incident

A shocking revelation emerged as a charred body was found in a building set on fire during the protest. The deceased was identified as Suresh Rajak, a camera person working for Avenues Television.

Rajak had climbed to the rooftop to capture footage of the protest but was unable to escape when the fire broke out. His colleagues later confirmed his identity at the scene.

How the Protest Escalated

The protest began around noon in the Thapathali area, where demonstrators, carrying banners and portraits of former King Mahendra and Prithvi Narayan Shah, started chanting slogans against the current political leadership.

The crowd accused Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba, and opposition leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal of misgovernance, hurling offensive slogans at them.

Clashes Between Protesters and Police

As the demonstration progressed, tensions rose between the protesters and police forces. Law enforcement had earlier informed protest organizers that they would not be allowed to advance beyond a designated point.

However, as the protesters tried to push forward, police responded with tear gas. Protesters retaliated by pelting stones, escalating the situation.

Prominent figures such as controversial religious leader Acharya Srinivas, known for advocating a Hindu state, made an appearance at the protest. His presence further inflamed sentiments, with calls for a ‘holy war’ and extreme actions against corrupt leaders.

Vandalism and Attacks on Media Houses

As the protest spiraled out of control, demonstrators attacked the offices of Kantipur and Annapurna Post newspapers. The situation worsened when a mob reached the Kantipur TV office, causing damage to property. The protesters also vandalized Kathmandu Metropolitan Police’s Koteshwor station, setting fire to vehicles belonging to the Narcotics Control Bureau.

Dhurga Prasai and Leaders Accused of Inciting Violence

Businessman and political activist Durga Prasai, along with Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) leaders Rabindra Mishra and Dhawal Shamsher Rana, were seen addressing the crowd, urging them to defy restrictions. Prasai was accused of attempting to breach a restricted area by forcefully driving his vehicle through police barricades.

Curfew Imposed, Leaders Arrested

Following the unrest, the Kathmandu District Administration imposed a curfew in several areas, extending it until Saturday morning.

Police detained RPP leaders Rabindra Mishra, Dhawal Shamsher Rana, and movement spokesperson Swagat Nepal for their involvement in the protest.

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Authorities stated that the arrests were necessary to investigate the extent of their roles in inciting violence.

The pro-monarchy protest, which began as a demonstration advocating for the restoration of Nepal’s monarchy, ultimately turned into a violent confrontation with security forces.

The tragic loss of journalist Suresh Rajak, coupled with extensive property damage and multiple injuries, has raised serious concerns about the handling of such demonstrations in the future.

As authorities continue their investigation, the incident has reignited debates about the monarchy’s place in Nepal’s political scenario.

Note: All photographs are the property of their respective Nepali media outlets, with all rights reserved.

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