Kathmandu, March 29, 2025 – In a dramatic escalation of Nepal’s political crisis, former King Gyanendra Shah has been placed under house arrest following violent pro-monarchy protests that rocked the capital. Authorities have also detained several prominent leaders of the pro-royalist movement and issued warrants for others, signaling the government’s intent to crack down hard on efforts to revive the monarchy.
The unrest, which left two dead and over 110 injured, including the horrific incident of a journalist being burned alive, has pushed the government into emergency mode. On Friday night, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli convened an urgent cabinet meeting attended by the chiefs of Nepal’s military, police, armed forces, and intelligence agencies to discuss the rapidly deteriorating law and order situation.
Former King Gyanendra Shah Under Surveillance
Following the meeting, the government directed security forces to surround the former king’s residence, Nirmal Niwas, effectively placing Gyanendra under house arrest. Sources confirm that while Shah continues to receive VVIP protection from the Nepal Army, all movement in and out of the royal premises has been restricted.
Government insiders indicate that Shah may face legal action as the state increasingly views him as a central figure behind the recent protests. His potential prosecution would mark an unprecedented move against a former monarch in post-republic Nepal.
Top Pro-Monarchy Leaders Arrested
More than 50 individuals have been arrested so far, including top officials of the pro-monarchist Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP). Among them are RPP General Secretary and MP Dhawal Shamsher Rana, Vice President Rabindra Mishra, United Struggle Committee coordinator Navaraj Suvedi, and party spokesperson Swagat Nepal.
Kathmandu police chief SSP Bishwo Adhikari stated that all those identified as involved in vandalism, arson, and inciting violence during the protests are being apprehended. “We have issued arrest warrants for the masterminds and are conducting search operations across Kathmandu,” he said.
Fugitive Leader Durga Prasai Faces Criminal Charges
One of the most prominent names on the government’s radar is Durga Prasai, head of the United People’s Struggle Committee, which has been leading the push for reinstating the monarchy. A criminal case has been filed against Prasai, who reportedly drove through a police barricade, further inciting the crowd. A video of the incident, allegedly shared by his own team on social media, has intensified the urgency of his arrest.
Despite multiple raids, Prasai remains at large. Authorities have confirmed that he is now a prime target in ongoing operations.
Government Condemns Violence, Vows Stern Action
Following the emergency meeting, government spokesperson Prithvi Subba Gurung declared, “The acts of arson, vandalism, and the killing of a journalist are inhuman and unacceptable. Legal proceedings will be initiated against the organizers who are directly responsible.”
Ministry of Home Affairs spokesperson Chhabi Rijal echoed the sentiment, stating that pro-monarchy leaders must bear the consequences for Friday’s unrest, which included attacks on political party headquarters, destruction of public and private property, and multiple injuries among police and paramilitary personnel.
Growing Tensions Amid Calls for Royal Revival
Friday’s events mark the most severe political confrontation in Nepal since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008. The return of large-scale royalist protests has reignited deep societal divides, and the government’s aggressive response may set the stage for prolonged unrest.
As of Saturday morning, Kathmandu remains heavily patrolled, with house-to-house searches ongoing for pro-monarchy activists. Meanwhile, public opinion remains divided, with growing concerns about civil liberties and democratic stability.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.