Nepal Erupts: Violent Protests Demand King’s Return

Nepal, a small yet historically rich nation nestled between India and China, has long been a land of cultural, political, and geopolitical significance. Known for the majestic Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Nepal has a deep-rooted history of monarchy that ruled the country for over 240 years under the Shah Dynasty. From the days of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the country in the 18th century, to the modern struggles of democracy, Nepal’s political landscape has been through numerous upheavals. The transition from monarchy to democracy was supposed to herald a new era of governance and prosperity, but for many, the dream of a stable and thriving Nepal remains unfulfilled.

The democratic experiment in Nepal has not yielded the results that many had hoped for. Instead of political stability, the country has been marred by constant power struggles, weak governance, and corruption scandals. The economy has suffered, unemployment has risen, and the country’s infrastructure has deteriorated. Against this backdrop, many Nepalese are questioning whether democracy has failed their country and if the return of the monarchy could provide a solution.

To fully understand this movement, we must revisit the history of Nepal’s monarchy. The Shah Dynasty was more than just a ruling family; it was a symbol of national unity, cultural preservation, and Hindu identity. King Birendra, the last widely beloved monarch, was seen as a just and stable leader, fostering positive relations with both India and China. However, the tragic events of June 1, 2001, changed the course of Nepalese history. The royal massacre, in which King Birendra, Queen Aishwarya, and most of the royal family were mysteriously killed, remains one of Nepal’s greatest unsolved tragedies. Official reports blame Crown Prince Dipendra, but conspiracy theories persist, suggesting political motives and foreign involvement. The mass killing left Nepal in shock and led to the eventual downfall of the monarchy.

In the aftermath, King Gyanendra ascended the throne but struggled to gain the people’s trust. His tenure was marked by political instability, as he attempted to consolidate power, leading to widespread protests and an eventual agreement to transition into a republic in 2008. However, what followed was not the promise of progress but years of instability, corruption, and economic struggles. The dream of democracy slowly faded as multiple governments failed to deliver tangible benefits to the people.

But amidst the turmoil, one cannot ignore the sheer beauty of Nepal. A land of breathtaking landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the lush green forests of the Terai, Nepal is a paradise for adventurers and seekers of tranquility alike. Its rich cultural heritage is embedded in the ancient temples of Kathmandu, the serene lakes of Pokhara, and the mystical allure of Mustang. The vibrant traditions, colorful festivals, and warm hospitality of the Nepalese people make this nation a jewel of South Asia. Yet, despite this natural and cultural wealth, the country’s political instability overshadows its potential. Could a stable governance structure help Nepal fully harness its beauty and resources for a prosperous future?

In recent months, Nepal has witnessed a resurgence of political unrest, with large-scale protests and increasing calls for the restoration of the monarchy. Disillusionment with the current democratic system has reached its peak, as economic struggles, corruption, and political instability have plagued the country. The violence and protests have intensified, leading to clashes between protestors and security forces, bringing Nepal into a state of crisis. The government’s inability to address these concerns effectively has led to growing dissatisfaction, raising concerns over the future of democracy in the country.

On March 9, 2025, approximately 10,000 supporters of former King Gyanendra Shah gathered in Kathmandu, demanding the restoration of the monarchy and the reinstatement of Hinduism as the state religion. This protest, though largely peaceful, caused disruptions at Tribhuvan International Airport, signaling the intensity of the public’s discontent. However, just weeks later, on March 28, 2025, a pro-monarchy rally in Kathmandu turned violent. Clashes erupted between protesters and police, resulting in two deaths and over 100 injuries, including 77 security personnel. The situation escalated as demonstrators vandalized property, looted a police weapon, and confronted law enforcement, leading to the detention of 105 individuals, including key pro-monarchy leaders.

The death toll from these protests continues to rise, with reports indicating that at least five people have now lost their lives due to the escalating violence. The unrest has spread to different parts of the country, with growing tensions in major cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Nepalgunj. The government’s response has been criticized for its heavy-handedness, as security forces have been accused of using excessive force to control demonstrators. Hospitals in Kathmandu have reported a surge in injured protestors, with many suffering from severe injuries inflicted during the clashes. The streets are filled with smoke from burning tires, and the sound of slogans demanding the king’s return echoes through the capital. The fear of further casualties looms large as both sides remain unwilling to back down.

The political unrest in Nepal has also strained its relationships with India and China. India, which has historically played a role in Nepalese politics, is closely monitoring the situation, wary of instability affecting its own security interests. Meanwhile, China has invested heavily in Nepal, particularly in infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative. A return to monarchy, or any drastic political change, could shift Nepal’s foreign policy, altering its alliances and economic agreements with these neighboring powers. International diplomatic channels are increasingly involved, as global stakeholders attempt to prevent further deterioration of Nepal’s stability.

To better understand this crisis, let’s hear what Nepalese citizens think. Many young people express disappointment, feeling their future is uncertain in their own country. “We grew up believing democracy would create opportunities, but all we see is instability and joblessness,” says a recent graduate from Kathmandu. Many young people are leaving Nepal for foreign employment due to a lack of economic opportunities, leading to concerns about brain drain. Economists argue that the lack of a long-term vision has crippled Nepal’s growth. “Monarchy provided continuity, but democracy has been plagued by short-term politics,” says a well-known economic analyst. The voices of the people reflect the growing sentiment that Nepal’s democracy has failed to meet expectations.

Tensions are running high as violent protests erupt across Nepal, demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy. Thousands of protestors, frustrated with the years of failed democratic governance, have taken to the streets. The government’s aggressive response, including crackdowns on protestors, arrests of pro-monarchy leaders, and allegations of human rights violations, has further fueled the unrest. The situation has raised serious concerns over Nepal’s political direction and whether democracy has truly served the nation’s interests.

With growing unrest and an uncertain future, what could happen next? Will Nepal’s political parties be able to reform and regain the trust of the people, or will continued dissatisfaction push the country towards the reinstatement of the monarchy? Could Nepal see a new political movement arise, one that bridges the gap between democracy and the stability of the past monarchy? These are the questions that Nepalese citizens, political leaders, and international observers are asking today.

As Nepal stands at a crossroads, the question remains: Should it continue with its flawed democratic system, or is it time to reconsider the institution that once defined the nation? Will the country find a middle path that brings both stability and democratic values, or will Nepal revert to its royal past? The future of Nepal remains uncertain, but one thing is clear its people are demanding change.