Police have surrounded and stopped members of Shahi Yuwa Shakti Nepal, ATF, and other pro-monarchy groups who had gathered in Samakhushi, Kathmandu. They were preparing to conduct a motorcycle rally from Samakhushi and Ekantakuna to Narayanhiti Palace demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy and a corruption-free society. The protesters were chanting slogans such as “Bring back the King, save the nation.”
Police intervened after the local administration restricted entry into prohibited areas. The Kathmandu District Administration Office has banned protests, rallies, sit-ins, and gatherings in various parts of the city for the next two months.
Chief District Officer Ishwar Raj Paudel issued an order on Friday restricting gatherings of more than five people. The order states that such gatherings could escalate into vandalism, arson, violent activities, or clashes, potentially disturbing public peace and security.
According to the order issued under Clause 6(3)(a) of the Local Administration Act, 2028, protests and gatherings are prohibited in areas including the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas, starting today and lasting for two months.
The restricted zones include:
- From National Police Training Academy Chowk to Samakhushi turning point, 100 meters south, and up to Samakhushi Khola on the southwest
- Lainchaur area (Vice President’s Office Green House), Keshar Mahal Chowk to Lainchaur Mode up to Hotel Malla boundary, and Narayanhiti Palace Museum area
- From Keshar Mahal Chowk to Narayanhiti Palace Museum South Gate to Jai Nepal Mode
- From Narayanhiti Palace Museum South Gate to Mahendra Statue
- Singha Durbar area, including Bhadrakali Temple (Tinkune Island) to the main gate of Singha Durbar and areas toward Padmodaya School
- Areas around the Supreme Court, Department of Archaeology, and Hanumansthan Temple
- Roads leading to District Court, District Administration Office, and Baluwatar (Prime Minister’s Residence)
- Residences of the Chairman of the National Assembly, Chief Justice, and Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank
Public protests, sit-ins, rallies, and mass gatherings are strictly prohibited within these zones until further notice.
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