Kathmandu:
Former King Gyanendra Shah of Nepal was fined by the Kathmandu civic body for the damage caused to public property and the environment during pro-monarchy protests in the Nepalese capital. The protests resulted in violence, with normalcy returning after a curfew was lifted in the eastern part of Kathmandu at 7 am.
The local administration imposed the curfew on Friday after violent demonstrations by pro-monarchists in the Tinkune-Baneshwor area, which included stone-pelting, attacks on political party offices, vehicle fires, and looting of shops. Two people, including a TV cameraman, were killed, and 110 others were injured in clashes between security personnel and protesters.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s mayor sent a letter to Gyanendra Shah, asking him to pay compensation of Nepali Rupees 7,93,000 for the damages caused during the protest. The protest, organized by Shah, damaged various properties in the city and affected the environment.
The protest demanding the reinstatement of monarchy and a Hindu state was organized after receiving instructions from Gyanendra Shah. Reports indicated that Shah’s passport was seized, and security at his residence was reduced, though there was no official confirmation. Transportation resumed, markets opened, and life returned to normal the following day.
Police detained 112 people, including leaders of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, who were active during the violent demonstrations. The ruling Nepali Congress held a meeting where they concluded that Shah should take responsibility for the events in the Tinkune area.
The Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Nepali Industry and Entrepreneurship condemned the violence, demanding proper compensation for the damages and strict action against those involved. Civil society leaders also criticized Gyanendra Shah for becoming politically active with the aim of reinstating monarchy, stating that it could weaken the country before its neighbors and the world.
The pro-monarchists have been active since democracy day in February, organizing rallies and demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy abolished in 2008.
