Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: A banner featuring Chief Minister of India’s Uttar Pradesh state and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Yogi Adityanath, was seen among the crowd welcoming former King Gyanendra upon his return to Kathmandu from Pokhara on Sunday. The banner sparked various speculations on social media.
Many speculated that Indian institutions are working to restore the monarchy in Nepal. Some leaders of ruling parties commented that neighboring India is being used as a force to bring back the monarchy in Nepal. But is it true that the Indian side is dissatisfied with Nepal’s republic?
Indian leaders have conveyed to Nepali leaders that the Indian government and its people have no intention of undermining Nepal’s republic to restore the monarchy. After comments surfaced suggesting that India is pushing for the monarchy’s return in Nepal, Indian leaders have denied such claims. However, no formal response has been issued by the Indian side.
A leader from the ruling party informed that Indian leaders have responded through intermediaries. “The Government of India and its ruling party do not interfere in the internal politics of any country. If necessary, they only facilitate,” the leader told Himal Press, quoting Indian leaders. “A clear message has been conveyed to political parties that the Indian government and its people do not support undermining the republican system chosen by the Nepali citizens.”
“India does not have the time to think about other countries. Instead of falling into such misconceptions, Nepali leaders should focus on creating jobs, maintaining good governance and holding corrupt individuals accountable,” the leader added. The leader, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “India’s reservation is towards Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s working style and rhetoric. India cannot ignore the leadership chosen by the citizens.”
Following a large demonstration by pro-monarchy forces in Kathmandu on Sunday, leaders of ruling parties have also sought updates from security chiefs. Likewise, the government is preparing to take serious decisions regarding issues raised on social media. A minister informed that preparations are underway to take action against those attempting to form parallel governments or making arbitrary statements.
After Indian leaders expressed support for political stability in Nepal, political party leaders are holding meetings to determine the way forward. Nepali Congress (NC) has taken Sunday’s demonstration lightly. “We have not taken it seriously. We are currently observing the activities. As a major political party, NC will engage in discussions, but there is no need to rush,” he added.
When asked if India is working to restore the monarchy in Nepal, Bishwakarma said NC has no information regarding India’s involvement in this matter. “Indian leaders in our network support stability in Nepal. India would never undermine the republic chosen by Nepali citizens,” he added.
Former Foreign Minister and CPN-UML leader Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said there is no need to panic. “India does not even have the time to think about Nepal’s issues right now. They are busy managing their relationship with the US and addressing headaches with Bangladesh,” Gyawali said. “They have no time to think about us. India desires a stable and strong neighbor.”
Gyawali believes that problems could arise only if republicans abandon their stance. “Otherwise, Nepal is not in a situation where external forces can cause problems. A few Indian leaders might desire it, but such desires cannot undermine the leadership chosen by Nepali voters. India is aware of this,” he added.
Security agencies believe that the former king’s return to Kathmandu and the appearance of Yogi Adityanath’s image on some banners are mere coincidences. “It is wrong to assume that all these things are connected,” a senior military officer told Himal Press.
Former Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Ranjit Rae, expressed skepticism about the restoration of monarchy in Nepal. “There is disappointment in Nepal. Successive governments have failed to meet public expectations,” Rai said. “I doubt that this disappointment will lead Nepali people to restore the monarchy. There is not much support for the monarchy at the moment.”
Similarly, former Foreign Secretary Madhu Raman Acharya also does not believe in the restoration of the monarchy in Nepal. “Nepali people want to remain citizens, not subjects,” Acharya wrote on social media platform X. “Nothing else can be said! If a referendum is held on whether to remain ‘citizens’ or become ‘subjects,’ the majority will choose to remain citizens.”
