Videos show violent clashes, burning houses, and chaos as pro-monarchy protests shake Nepal

Kathmandu witnessed violent clashes on Friday as police used tear gas, water cannons, and blank rounds to disperse pro-monarchy demonstrators. The protesters set a house on fire, hurled stones, and attempted to breach security barricades.

Footage from the Tinkune area near Tribhuvan International Airport showed flames engulfing vehicles and a house as riot police confronted the crowd. Protesters chanted slogans such as "Raja aau desh bachau" (May the King come to save the country) and "Down with corrupt government." In response to the escalating unrest, curfews were enforced in Tinkune, Sinamangal, and Koteshwor.

Unrest spreads to key locations

Eyewitnesses confirmed that at least one person was injured in the violence. Demonstrators, waving Nepal’s national flag and images of former King Gyanendra Shah, also targeted a TV station and the CPN (Unified Socialist) party office.


Pro-monarchy organisations, including the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, led the protests, demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy. Nepal transitioned into a federal republic in 2008 after its parliament formally ended the royal rule.

These demonstrations intensified following Gyanendra Shah’s video message on February 19 (Democracy Day), where he urged citizens to support the monarchy’s revival. His statement has further ignited debates about Nepal’s political future.

Clashes between opposing groups

As pro-monarchy supporters rallied in Tinkune, a counter-demonstration took place in Bhrikutimandap, where thousands of anti-monarchy activists gathered under the Socialist Front’s leadership. They shouted slogans like "Long live the republican system" and "Take action against corrupt people."

Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and other politicians addressed the anti-monarchy crowd, strongly opposing any move to reinstate the king.

Security forces detained multiple individuals who attempted to defy restrictions and march toward the New Baneshwor area, a restricted zone.

The ongoing political divide has created a volatile atmosphere in Nepal, especially as pro-monarchy sentiments gain traction. Gyanendra Shah’s recent public engagements, including a March 9 rally following a nationwide religious tour, have further fueled speculation. Notably, some protesters displayed images of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alongside Gyanendra’s, hinting at broader ideological influences.

Inputs from TOI