Nepal Monarchy Protests Persist; Former Home Minister Kamal Thapa Arrested and Released; Kathmandu Imposes Protest Ban

International News: The demonstration organized by monarchy supporters in Nepal's capital Kathmandu on Sunday has once again heated up the political atmosphere. During this demonstration, seven other protesters including former Home Minister and strong supporter of monarchy Kamal Thapa were detained, who were later released. Through these demonstrations, pro-monarchy is demanding to restore the king's power in Nepal and declare the country a Hindu nation.

Background of the demonstration and reason for the protest

The monarchy in Nepal ended in 2008 and the country was declared a federal democratic Republic. But some pro-monarchy groups are still demanding the restoration of power of former King Gyanendra Shah. Pro-monarchy groups like Rashtriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and RPP Nepal are the leaders of this movement. They argue that the restoration of the monarchy is necessary for Nepal's cultural and religious identity and Nepal should be declared a Hindu nation.

Protests and arrests on Sunday

On Sunday, about 1,200 monarchy supporters gathered in Kathmandu and raised slogans against the government of Prime Minister KP Oli, carrying pictures of former King Gyanendra Shah. The protesters gathered in several parts of Kathmandu's Ring Road area, where the police tried to stop them. The police showed strictness to prevent the demonstration from entering the restricted area and detained seven supporters, including former Home Minister Kamal Thapa. However, everyone was released by evening.

Administration banned protests in Kathmandu

The Nepal government decided to ban protests in most parts of Kathmandu in view of the increasing pressure from the protesters. The Kathmandu district administration issued a notice stating that dharnas, hunger strikes, protests, public functions etc. will be banned for the next two months at all places except Koteshwar, Balkhu and Sifal Maidan in the Ring Road area. This ban will be effective from June 2.

Clashes with security forces

During the demonstration, when monarchy supporters tried to break the security cordon and move towards Baluwatar, the official residence of the Prime Minister, clashes broke out between the police and the protesters. Kathmandu Valley Police spokesperson Apel Bohora said that the protesters were trying to break the cordon of security forces, which was stopped by the police with force. Some protesters were also injured in this conflict.

Political environment and future prospects

This movement of monarchy supporters in Nepal can increase political instability. The pressure on Prime Minister KP Oli's government to handle the matter sensitivity is increasing. At the same time, monarchy supporters are adamant on their demands and are continuously demonstrating to restore their identity.

Despite the restrictions and arrests imposed by the government, monarchy supporters have made it clear that they will continue their movement until their demands are met. Meanwhile, Nepal's political observers are considering this a major challenge to the country's democracy, as it may affect internal stability.