Violence Erupts in Nepal as Protesters Demand Monarchy Restoration
Tragedy struck Nepal on Friday as violent clashes between protesters advocating for the restoration of the monarchy and security forces resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, with numerous others injured. According to officials, the unrest has highlighted long-standing tensions within the nation.
The demonstrations were sparked by calls for the reinstatement of Gyanendra Shah, the last monarch of Nepal, who ruled until the monarchy was abolished in 2008 in favor of a secular republic. Protesters are advocating for a constitutional monarchy that would maintain Nepal’s identity as a parliamentary democracy with Hindu values.
The fatalities included a protester who succumbed to bullet wounds and a television journalist who tragically lost his life when a building, from which he was reporting, was set ablaze by demonstrators. Dinesh Kumar Acharya, a spokesperson for the Nepali police, confirmed the identities of the deceased and reported that at least 30 civilians and 40 police personnel sustained injuries during the violent confrontations.
In response to the escalating situation, the government imposed a curfew across large sections of the capital city, Kathmandu, and mobilized the army to help restore order and safety in the area.
- Monarchists have recently intensified their protests, expressing dissatisfaction with established political parties.
- They accuse leaders, including Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, of corruption and failing to guide the nation out of poverty and political instability.
As tensions continue to rise, the future of Nepal’s political landscape remains uncertain, with the monarchy’s advocates fervently pushing for change in the face of government opposition.
