The Nepalese government has launched an investigation into the violence that erupted during protests demanding the reinstatement of the constitutional monarchy. The country’s Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, provided this information on Saturday, March 29, as reported by Reuters.
Authorities stated that on Friday, protestors marched toward the Parliament building in Kathmandu. As they advanced, throwing stones and bricks, the police intervened with force.
The clashes between pro-monarchy protestors and police resulted in two deaths and at least 112 injuries, including 77 security personnel. The authorities also accused the protestors of vandalizing homes, offices, hospitals, and vehicles.
Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer, Rishiram Tiwari, confirmed that 105 protestors, including several leaders of the pro-monarchy movement, were arrested.
Nepal abolished its 239-year-old monarchy in 2008 as part of a peace deal with former Maoist rebels, leading to the establishment of a democratic republic. The last king, Gyanendra, now 77, lives as a private citizen in Kathmandu with his family.
From 1996 to 2006, Nepal witnessed a decade-long Maoist insurgency that claimed over 17,000 lives. Since the abolition of the monarchy, the country has seen 14 different governments in just 16 years, contributing to political instability.
Nepal, situated between the regional powers India and China, serves as a buffer state. However, shifting governmental alliances with either India or China have hampered consistent economic growth, discouraging foreign investment. The resulting economic instability has led many Nepalese citizens to call for the return of the monarchy.