Deuba dismisses rumors of India supporting monarchy’s return in Nepal

KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba has clarified that he is not in favor of restoring the monarchy in Nepal.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the Ganeshman Singh Foundation in Kathmandu on Monday, Deuba emphasized that claims suggesting India is advocating for the reinstatement of the monarchy in Nepal are false.

Deuba also referred to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent visit to the Nepali Embassy in New Delhi, where he clarified that he does not support the return of the monarchy in Nepal. Deuba stated, “Adityanath has clearly said that he is not in favor of reinstating the monarchy, which reflects India’s position in support of Nepal, republicanism, and democracy.”

The Nepali Congress President acknowledged the significant role played by former Indian Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar in establishing democracy in Nepal. He noted, “Chandra Shekhar made a huge contribution to the establishment of democracy in Nepal. At that time, India did not support democracy in Nepal. However, after Chandra Shekhar’s involvement, India confirmed it was not against democracy, which led us to initiate a major movement for republicanism.”

Deuba also dismissed recent rumors about India pushing for a return of the monarchy, which were fueled by reports featuring Adityanath’s photo. He reiterated, “Adityanath has already stated that he has no involvement in such matters and that the decision about the monarchy is entirely up to the Nepali people. I am not in favor of bringing back the monarchy.”

Concluding his remarks, Deuba stressed the importance of political parties working together to strengthen Nepal’s republican system