The recent pro-monarchy protests that shook Nepal have once again thrust the country’s turbulent political landscape into the spotlight. With two people dead and over a hundred injured, the demonstrations—marked by violence, arson, and attacks on media houses and political offices—signal a deeper crisis of governance. The demand for the restoration of the constitutional monarchy and Nepal’s status as a Hindu state reflects growing disillusionment with the republic’s political instability.
A Fractured Democracy
Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, Nepal’s democratic experiment has been fraught with challenges. No prime minister has completed a full term since 1990, with frequent power struggles taking precedence over governance. This relentless political churn has left the country without a stable leadership, hindering economic growth and deepening public frustration. A staggering 20% of Nepal’s nearly 30 million people live below the poverty line, highlighting the urgent need for consistent policymaking and economic reforms.
The Oli Government’s Dilemma
The coalition government led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli now faces the twin challenge of investigating the police crackdown on protestors while addressing broader discontent. The protests are being viewed as a direct rebuke to Nepal’s political class, which has failed to deliver stability or prosperity. The eruption of unrest in Kathmandu underscores the fragile nature of Nepal’s governance and the simmering nostalgia for monarchy among segments of the population disenchanted with democratic failures.
The India Factor
For India, which has historical ties with Nepal’s monarchy, the situation presents a delicate diplomatic puzzle. While some stakeholders in New Delhi may see an opportunity in supporting a return to monarchy, further unrest could push Nepal deeper into instability—at a time when the Oli administration is perceived as leaning closer to China. A more pragmatic approach for India would be to quietly back Kathmandu’s efforts to restore political stability without exacerbating internal divisions.
The Road Ahead
Nepal stands at a crossroads. While nostalgia for monarchy is strong among some, the broader challenge remains institutional reform and accountable governance. Unless Nepal’s leaders prioritize stability over power struggles, the cycle of discontent will persist, leaving the country vulnerable to both internal strife and external influences. The protests may have reignited the monarchy debate, but the real question is whether Nepal’s politicians will finally address the people’s grievances or continue their game of political musical chairs.