Curfew Rescinded in Nepal; 51 Pro-Monarchy Protesters Detained Following Fatal Clashes
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Synopsis
On March 29, the curfew in Nepal's Baneshwar-Tinkune area was lifted after tensions subsided. However, 51 pro-monarchy protesters were arrested following violent clashes that resulted in deaths, injuries, and significant property damage.
Key Takeaways
- Curfew lifted in Baneshwar-Tinkune area.
- 51 pro-monarchy demonstrators arrested.
- Violent protests led to fatalities and injuries.
- Public support for royalists has declined.
- Government promises to manage future activities.
Kathmandu, March 29 (NationPress) The curfew that restricted movement, gatherings, and protests was officially lifted in the Baneshwar-Tinkune area of Nepal on Saturday as tensions began to subside.
As of now, 51 individuals, predominantly prominent pro-monarchy demonstrators, have been arrested. This includes key figures such as the senior vice-chairman of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Rabindra Mishra, General Secretary Dhawal Sumsher Rana, and others like Swagat Nepal, Shepherd Limbu, and Santosh Tamang, all charged with 'instigating' violence, as reported by local media.
Nepalese authorities have ramped up arrests following the pro-monarch protests that erupted in Tinkune, Kathmandu. The violent demonstrations on Friday resulted in fatalities, property damage, and arson incidents.
“Given the events of Friday, including arson, vandalism, and fatalities, public support for royalists has waned significantly. We anticipate considerable divisions among various pro-Hindu and pro-monarchy factions in the aftermath of Friday's violence. Moving forward, we will implement all necessary actions to manage their activities,” stated a Nepal Home Ministry official to The Kathmandu Post.
The curfew was initially enacted by local authorities on Friday, following violent clashes that resulted in two deaths and 45 injuries among security forces and pro-monarchy protestors.
The protestors are advocating for the reinstatement of the abolished monarchy in Nepal, according to media sources.
Tensions escalated in Tinkune as crowds attempted to breach security barricades. In reaction, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, and subsequently, police fired shots to regain control of the situation, as reported by Nepali news outlet Annapurna Express.
Social media footage depicted protestors seizing police weapons and engaging in violent confrontations. Reports indicate the protest was organized by the Nawaraj Subedi-led joint movement committee, with businessman Durga Prasai rallying supporters.
The demonstration also received backing from the Rajendra Lingden-led Rastriya Prajatantra Party.
Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs issued a firm warning to those participating in the violent protests on Friday, emphasizing that they would face consequences for their actions.
In response to the unrest, Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli convened an urgent meeting of the Council of Ministers after the Joint People's Movement Committee, which was formed to reinstate the monarchy, resorted to violence.
