Curfew lifted after deadly pro-monarchy clashes in Kathmandu, Nepal; more than 100 arrested
Curfew lifted after deadly pro-monarchy clashes in Kathmandu, Nepal; more than 100 arrested
Digital Desk: Following violent skirmishes between security forces and pro-monarchy protestors in the eastern parts of Kathmandu, authorities in Nepal lifted a curfew on Saturday. Widespread damage and fatalities resulted from the disturbances, which started on Friday in the Tinkune region.
Pro-monarchy demonstrators assembled in the Tinkune Park area close to Kathmandu Airport, where they chanted calls for the restoration of the monarchy and the creation of a Hindu kingdom.
On Democracy Day (February 19), protesters demanded the restoration of former King Gyanendra Shah, who had urged monarchists to unite.
Tensions rose at 3 p.m. as protesters attempted to march outside the approved protest area. Security personnel intervened, sparking violent fights. The police opened fire, hurting possibly one protester.
Demonstrators responded by breaking over barricades and taking to the streets, vandalizing buildings, and setting fire to a business complex and a private news channel headquarters.
As a result of the deadly clash, three individuals were slain, including a journalist and two pro-monarchy supporters, and injured 53 police officers, 22 Armed Police Force troops, and 35 protestors. 14 buildings were set on fire, nine were vandalized, nine government cars were destroyed, and six private vehicles were damaged.
Moreover, Media groups such as Kantipur Television and Annapurna Media House were also targeted.
Authorities issued a curfew due to the violence, which was removed on Saturday. Police detained 105 agitators for arson and destruction, including Rastriya Prajatantra Party General Secretary Dhawal Shumsher Rana and party central member Rabindra Mishra. Durga Prasai, the main organizer of the protests, is still at large, according to Kathmandu District Police Range Superintendent Apil Bohara.
The impacted districts are currently maintaining peace, with key officials such as Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Home Secretary, and the police head reviewing the tense situation.
Authorities are still on high alert to prevent further escalation and maintain peace and order in the area.
