SATV March 28, Kathmandu: Separate demonstrations by pro-republican and royalist groups are scheduled in Kathmandu today (Friday).
In response, authorities have intensified security measures across the Valley, assigning designated areas for the protests to maintain order and public safety.
The District Administration Office, Kathmandu, has designated Exhibition Road-Bhrikutimandap for pro-republican demonstrations, while pro-royalist gatherings will take place at Tinkune.
To bolster security, the District Administration Offices of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur have collaborated on a joint security strategy and implemented necessary measures.
Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer (CDO) Rishiram Tiwari confirmed the deployment of security personnel and the allocation of specific venues to ensure peaceful demonstrations.
“We have mobilized the required security forces, adjusted rally routes, and reinforced security at the protest sites to maintain order,” he stated.
The pro-republican protest is being organized by the Maoist Center, Unified Socialist, Nepal Socialist Party, and CPN Biplav factions under the Socialist Front alliance.
Conversely, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai are leading a separate movement titled ‘Nation, Nationality, Religion, Culture, and Citizen Protection Mahaabhiyan,’ advocating for the reinstatement of a Hindu state with a ceremonial monarchy.
Swagat Nepal, spokesperson for the royalist faction, has urged all participants to maintain a peaceful and non-violent demonstration.
The Socialist Front’s pro-republican rally will traverse eight different routes, including Maitighar Mandala, Kupandol, Tripureshwor, Sundhara, New Road, Sohrakhutte, Shanti Batika, and Maiti Devi, culminating in a gathering at Bhrikutimandap.
Authorities have advised the public to steer clear of protest areas and opt for alternative travel routes. CDO Tiwari reassured, “We have put comprehensive security measures in place, formulated an integrated security plan, and coordinated personnel deployment to prevent any disturbances. Traffic diversions have been arranged to manage the flow of vehicles efficiently.”
