Former King Gyanendra Shah is arriving in Kathmandu today from Jhapa after a gap of four months.
Royalist groups have been preparing to welcome him in the capital. However, after reports of planned demonstrations in the airport area, the Kathmandu District Administration Office has imposed prohibitory orders within the airport premises.
According to sources close to him, Gyanendra is scheduled to arrive in Kathmandu at 12:40 PM on Friday via a Buddha Air flight.
The government issued the prohibitory order citing the election code of conduct, as a large gathering of royalist supporters was expected at the airport to welcome him.
Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer, Ishwar Raj Paudel, issued a public notice urging people not to organize any form of protest, rally, gathering, or sloganeering in the airport area. The statement noted that the decision was taken considering the sensitivity of the airport zone and the need to maintain law and order as well as smooth transportation.
In recent days, a group led by Durga Prasai has been campaigning to gather supporters at the airport to welcome the former king.
Following the issuance of the prohibitory order, security arrangements across the Kathmandu Valley have been tightened. Security has been reinforced around the airport area and along the Ring Road up to Nirmal Niwas.
Royalist supporters are reportedly planning to gather at various locations to welcome the former king.
Former King Gyanendra is visiting Kathmandu to celebrate the birthday of his wife, Komal Shah.
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