Kathmandu, March 29, 2025 – Nepal witnessed one of the most violent protests in recent years on March 28, when thousands of pro-monarchy demonstrators clashed with police in Kathmandu. The protest, organized by groups advocating for the restoration of Nepal’s constitutional monarchy and Hindu statehood, turned deadly as security forces cracked down on protesters with excessive force. The unrest led to two fatalities—one protester was shot in the chest by the police, while a news photographer was burned alive in a building set on fire during the chaos. The police initially used the building to launch tear gas at protesters. Many others were severely injured due to expired tear gas deployed by security personnel, raising further concerns over police brutality and governance failures in Nepal.

The Need for Monarchy and a Hindu State in Nepal

Nepal was a Hindu kingdom for over two centuries before it transitioned into a secular republic in 2008 following the Maoist insurgency and the abolition of the monarchy. Many Nepalese still believe that removing the monarchy has led to political instability, economic stagnation, and rampant corruption. Supporters of the monarchy argue that a constitutional king would provide political stability and serve as a unifying figure for the country, preventing constant power struggles among politicians.

The demand for a Hindu state has also gained traction, with protesters arguing that Nepal’s identity as the world’s only Hindu kingdom was unfairly discarded in favor of secularism. Many believe that the move was imposed by external influences rather than reflecting the will of the people. The growing dissatisfaction with the current system has reignited calls for a return to Nepal’s traditional political and religious structure.

Police Brutality and the Tragic Deaths

The rally was initially peaceful, with thousands of people gathering to express their support for the monarchy. However, violence erupted when police forcefully opened fire and used tear gas on the stage where leaders were arriving. Tear gas was launched directly at the stage before all the leaders could even reach the platform. The sudden attack by the police provoked chaos, turning the peaceful rally into a battleground.

As the protesters retaliated, police escalated their response with batons, rubber bullets, and excessive tear gas. A protester was fatally shot in the chest, while a news photographer, covering the protest, was trapped inside a burning building that the police had earlier used to launch tear gas at demonstrators. The journalist, unable to escape, was burned alive, raising serious concerns over the handling of the situation by the authorities.

Use of Expired Tear Gas and Its Health Effects

In addition to violent suppression, the police used expired tear gas to disperse the protesters, causing severe health complications among those exposed. Expired tear gas contains chemical compounds that can become more toxic over time, leading to respiratory issues, severe skin irritation, and even long-term neurological effects. Protesters reported difficulty breathing, excessive coughing, nausea, and temporary blindness. Medical professionals treating the injured stated that prolonged exposure to the expired gas could have long-term consequences for the victims.

The use of such hazardous materials on civilians highlights the negligence of the authorities and raises concerns about whether the security forces are intentionally using harmful methods to suppress dissent.

Rising Corruption and Political Instability in the Republic

The growing public demand for the return of the monarchy and a Hindu state is largely fueled by frustration over widespread corruption and political mismanagement in Nepal’s republican system. Since the abolition of the monarchy, Nepal has seen frequent government changes, with politicians accused of prioritizing their interests over the nation’s well-being. Corruption scandals involving top officials have become commonplace, and economic growth has remained stagnant despite promises of development and reform.

The government’s failure to address unemployment, inflation, and poor public services has further fueled discontent. Many believe that politicians are more focused on foreign aid and personal enrichment rather than addressing the needs of ordinary citizens. The lack of accountability and the increasing gap between the government and the people have led many to question whether democracy, as it currently functions in Nepal, is serving the country’s best interests.

Government Response and Public Backlash

Following the violent crackdown, authorities imposed a curfew in affected areas and arrested several protesters. The government defended the actions of the security forces, claiming that the protest had turned violent and needed to be controlled. However, videos and testimonies from eyewitnesses contradict the official narrative, showing that the police initiated the violence by attacking the stage where the leaders were set to arrive.

Human rights organizations and international media outlets have condemned the Nepalese government’s heavy-handed approach to dealing with dissent. Many activists have called for an independent investigation into the police’s actions, particularly the deaths of the two individuals and the use of expired tear gas.

Citations and Sources

• Reuters: “Two killed in Kathmandu rally demanding return of Nepal monarchy” (link)
• AP News: “At least 2 dead in Nepal after pro-monarchy supporters clash with police during rally” (link)
• The Guardian: “Nepal investigates deadly violence in pro-monarchy rally” (link)

What Lies Ahead for Nepal?

The events of March 28 have once again brought the debate over Nepal’s political system into the spotlight. While the ruling establishment remains firm in its commitment to a republican system, growing public dissatisfaction suggests that the demand for the restoration of the monarchy and a Hindu state is not going away anytime soon. If the government continues to ignore the voices of the people and resort to oppressive measures, the situation could escalate further, leading to prolonged unrest and instability.

As Nepal grapples with these pressing issues, the question remains: Will the government acknowledge the growing dissatisfaction and work toward meaningful reforms, or will it continue down the path of repression and authoritarian control? The answer to this question will determine the future course of Nepal’s political landscape.