Pro-Monarchy Protests Resurge in Nepal

Context

The recent resurgence of pro-monarchy protests in Nepal has reignited debates about the country’s political future. With thousands taking to the streets demanding the restoration of the monarchy, led by former King Gyanendra Shah, the movement highlights growing public dissatisfaction with the current federal republic system. For stakeholders in India and other neighboring countries, this development raises critical questions regarding Nepal’s stability and governance. 

Historical Context: The Fall of Nepal’s Monarchy

• After a 10-year civil struggle with 16,000-plus deaths, Nepal ended its 240-year-old monarchy in 2008. The move toward a federal democratic republic was part of a peace treaty with Maoist insurgents who fought the war against the monarchy. King Gyanendra Shah, who had ruled from 2005 to 2006 with authoritarian powers, was compelled to abdicate under heavy public pressure. Political instability has plagued Nepal since then, with about 13 governments formed within the past 17 years. 
• The end of the monarchy heralded an epochal change in Nepal from being a Hindu kingdom to a secular state. But much contention surrounds this change; many citizens see secularism as anti-Hindu and view federalism as an ineffective loophole to decentralize power.

The Resurgence of Pro-Monarchy Sentiments

In recent years, public frustration with Nepal’s political system has fueled calls for the monarchy’s restoration. A 2024 survey by Himalmedia revealed that nearly half of Nepalis support reinstating a Hindu state and constitutional monarchy. Key reasons for this growing sentiment include:

• Political Instability: Frequent government changes have hindered effective governance.
• Corruption: Allegations of corruption have eroded trust in political leaders.
• Economic Challenges: Stagnation and unemployment have worsened public discontent.

Former King Gyanendra Shah has capitalized on these sentiments by making public appeals for national unity and prosperity. His speech on February 19, 2025 (Democracy Day), urging citizens to support the monarchy’s revival, served as a catalyst for recent protests.

The 2025 Pro-Monarchy Protests

Beginning in Kathmandu on March 9, 2025, thousands keep coming to demonstrate in favor of a monarchy. Protests intensified past March 27, when a new Joint People’s Movement Committee was created, with Nabaraj Subedi as the chief. Their recommendations are that the constitution specifies a way back to that of 1991 or amend for constitutional monarchy within multi-party democracy. 

Key Events

• March 28 Clashes: Protests turned violent when demonstrators attempted to march toward Parliament despite prohibitory orders. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, leading to clashes that resulted in two deaths and over 110 injuries.
• Government Response: A curfew was imposed in parts of Kathmandu, enforced by police and the Nepalese Army.

Protest Slogans

Protesters chanted slogans like “May King come to save the country” and “Down with corrupt government,” reflecting their dissatisfaction with the current system.

Arguments for Restoring the Monarchy

Proponents of monarchy argue that it could provide stability and unity in a politically fragmented nation. Key arguments include:

1. 1. National Unity: Advocates believe that a monarch could serve as a unifying figure above partisan politics.
   2. Cultural Identity: Many see the monarchy as integral to Nepal’s identity as a Hindu nation.
   3. Geopolitical Stability: Some argue that reinstating the monarchy could strengthen Nepal’s position amid growing geopolitical competition between India, China, and other powers.

Challenges to Monarchy’s Revival

Despite growing support, significant obstacles remain:

1. 1. Opposition from Republican Forces: Political parties like the CPN-Maoist Centre strongly oppose reinstating the monarchy.
   2. Public Memory: King Gyanendra’s authoritarian rule from 2005-2006 remains controversial.
   3. Geopolitical Concerns: A return to monarchy could complicate Nepal’s relations with democratic allies.

Implications for India

India shares deep historical and cultural ties with Nepal and has traditionally viewed it as part of its sphere of influence. The potential restoration of Nepal’s monarchy poses both opportunities and challenges for Indian policymakers:

1. 1. Geopolitical Stability: A stable Nepal under a constitutional monarchy could align more closely with India’s interests amid China’s growing influence.
   2. Cultural Resonance: A Hindu kingdom resonates with India’s own cultural ethos under its current leadership.
   3. Risk of Instability: Prolonged protests or violent clashes could destabilize Nepal, affecting border security and trade.

Indian stakeholders must tread carefully to avoid exacerbating tensions while supporting democratic processes in Nepal.

Conclusion

The pro-monarchy movement in Nepal reflects deep-seated frustrations with its current political system but also raises questions about whether reverting to past structures can address modern challenges. For India and other stakeholders, ensuring stability in Nepal is paramount. While calls for restoring the monarchy gain momentum, further protests risk plunging Nepal into greater instability—a scenario that neither its citizens nor its neighbors can afford.

Source: HT

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