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Nepal Bars Gatherings Around Narayanhiti Palace Ahead of Pro-Monarchy Demonstrations

Officials say the restrictions will prevent traffic gridlock, bolstering security in Kathmandu through early July.

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Overview

  • Chief District Officer Rishiram Tiwari’s notice declares a no-gathering zone around the Narayanhiti Palace Museum from May 31 to July 8, barring sit-ins, rallies and assemblies of more than five people.
  • The Rastriya Prajatantra Party is leading weekend rallies that demand restoration of the monarchy and establishment of Nepal as a Hindu state.
  • Protest leaders have told supporters to gather near the palace grounds on Saturday despite the ban.
  • Activists have maintained peaceful conduct so far even as traffic slowed near Maitighar-Mandala, Babarmahal and Naya Baneshwar.
  • The movement taps into longstanding dissent since Nepal’s 2008 shift from a 240-year monarchy to a secular, federal republic.