Home Ministry Estimates 10,000 Supporters to Rally for Former King

The Home Ministry has estimated that around 10,000 people will take to the streets on Sunday in support of former King Gyanendra Shah as he returns to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

Supporters advocating for the restoration of the monarchy, including the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and Durga Prasai, have been mobilizing for a grand reception for the former king. While the ministry’s estimate places the expected turnout at 10,000, pro-monarchy groups claim that the gathering will be significantly larger, according to Deshsanchar.

Government Prepares for Controlled Crowd Management

In anticipation of the event, the Home Ministry has planned discussions with the organizers on Saturday to ensure the gathering remains peaceful. Authorities have decided to limit the number of supporters allowed to reach Tribhuvan International Airport, where the former king is expected to arrive in the afternoon. The remaining crowd will be contained in designated areas, including Gaushala, Tinkune, and Bhimsengola.

A government source revealed that officials are coordinating with organizers to manage security and prevent the rally from escalating into unrest. The source also clarified that the government does not intend to suppress the gathering or deploy heavy security measures.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has reportedly taken a lenient stance, advocating for a relaxed approach toward the pro-monarchy demonstrators. Growing public sentiment in favor of the former king has also sparked internal debate within the ruling coalition, with some leaders suggesting that engaging in political dialogue with the former monarch could be a pragmatic step forward.

Shifting Political Stance on the Monarchy

For the first time since the abolition of the monarchy, discussions have emerged within major parties, including the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, about the need to establish communication with the former king. Some leaders argue that finding a middle ground through dialogue could be beneficial amid the shifting political landscape.

Meanwhile, as momentum for monarchy restoration gains traction, concerns have also been raised about external influences. Security sources allege that India’s Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization, has been discreetly advancing its agenda in Nepal. The RSS is reportedly promoting a Hindu republic while also pushing anti-Muslim rhetoric through various channels.

As the political climate surrounding the monarchy continues to evolve, Sunday’s gathering is expected to be a significant event, drawing national attention to the growing calls for a reconsideration of Nepal’s republican status.