nepal-cuts-ex-king-gyanendra-s-security-after-protests

The Nepalese government has scaled down the security detail assigned to former king Gyanendra Shah following violent pro-monarchy protests in Kathmandu.

 

The decision comes amid increasing scrutiny of the ex-monarch's activities, with authorities suspecting his involvement in the unrest.

 

The number of security personnel stationed at Nirmal Niwas, the former king’s private residence, has been reduced from 25 to 16. Additionally, the security team has been reshuffled, reflecting the government's growing concerns over Gyanendra’s role in recent events.

 

The protests, which took place on Friday, escalated into violence, leading to the deaths of two individuals, including a television cameraman. Around 110 people were injured in clashes between security forces and demonstrators calling for the restoration of Nepal’s Hindu monarchy.

 

Protesters attacked political party offices, vandalised business complexes, and set vehicles on fire. Several government and private buildings were also targeted.

 

The ruling Nepali Congress party has openly accused the former king of instigating the violence.

 

On Thursday, party leaders stated that Gyanendra should be held accountable for the unrest. Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, who heads the opposition CPN-Maoist Centre, also blamed the ex-monarch, alleging that he was behind the resurgence of pro-monarchy and pro-Hindu movements across the country.

 

In response to the protests, the Nepalese government has intensified its monitoring of Gyanendra’s movements and activities. Officials suggest that his increasing public engagements and ties to pro-monarchy groups have fuelled tensions, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures.

 

Meanwhile, the pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party has strongly condemned the government’s actions. The party has demanded the immediate release of its leaders, Dhawal Shumsher Rana and Ravindra Mishra, who were arrested following the demonstrations.

 

Party members have warned of further protests if their demands are not met within 24 hours, holding the government responsible for the violent turn of events.