Protests Erupt in Kathmandu Supporting Former King Shah, Security Strengthened

A pro-monarchy protest is taking place in Kathmandu on Sunday in support of former King Gyanendra Shah. Supporters advocating for the restoration of the monarchy have gathered in response to a call from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP).

Former King Shah, currently in Pokhara, is set to return to Kathmandu today. His supporters are assembling at Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome him, with his arrival expected around 3 PM.

In response, security measures in Kathmandu have been heightened.  An additional 1,200 to 1,300 police personnel have been deployed today, and further security forces are being prepared for deployment in similar numbers as per the Kathmandu Police Range.

The growing momentum of pro-monarchy movements has sparked internal discussions within the ruling Nepali Congress and UML parties. Leaders are meeting in Baluwatar to strategize on countering these activities and defining the government’s stance.

Following former King Gyanendra Shah’s recent statement, several royalist and Hindu organizations—including the RPP, RPP Nepal, Nation, Nationality, Religion, Culture and Citizen Protection Mahabhiyaan, National Power Nepal, Royal Youth Power Nepal, Shiv Sena Nepal, ATF, RTF, and Bir Gorkhali Abhiyan—are organizing a grand welcome for him today.

RPP leader Gyanendra Shahi mentioned that while some key figures will personally receive Shah at the airport, the larger crowd will gather outside the main gate due to the anticipated high turnout.