Return of the King: Gyanendra Shah's Homecoming Fuels Monarchy Debate

Nepal's former King Gyanendra Shah returned to Kathmandu, welcomed by loyalists pushing for monarchy restoration. Hundreds gathered at the airport and along streets, chanting pro-monarchy slogans. The event heightened security concerns with police deployment amid rumors of a palace visit, though no incidents occurred.

Nepal's former King Gyanendra Shah returned to Kathmandu on Sunday, sparking a wave of enthusiasm among pro-monarchy supporters. Tight security was enforced at Tribhuvan International Airport as loyalists arrived to welcome the ex-king.

Upon Gyanendra's arrival from Pokhara on a Simrik Air helicopter, hundreds of supporters, including leaders from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, gathered to chant praises and call for the reinstatement of the monarchy. Posters with messages like ''We want our King back'' and ''Abolish federal republican system'' filled the air.

The scene was charged with emotion as motorcades of supporters, bearing images of Gyanendra and national flags, greeted him along the route to Nirmal Niwas. Security personnel lined the roads to prevent any disturbances, with additional forces guarding the Narayanhity Palace Museum amid speculation of Gyanendra's visit. Despite heightened tensions, events proceeded peacefully.

(With inputs from agencies.)