RPP to hold protest rally in Kathmandu

KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) is set to stage a protest rally in Kathmandu today.

The party plans to march from various locations, culminating in a central protest gathering at Balkhu.

RPP has already obtained prior approval from the authorities for this demonstration.

During the protest rally, party president Rajendra Lingden and other top leaders will address the gathering. RPP’s Chief Whip, Gyanendra Shahi, has called for national unity under the flag, urging citizens to come together.

He criticized the current government, claiming that it had lost its patriotism and national spirit. He stated, “These corrupt individuals have lost their love for the country. The leaders of looting gangs are afraid. They have allowed the program out of fear, but the RPP’s movement will not be stopped. On the 26th, we will unite under the national flag to raise our voices against the corrupt and traitorous elements.”

Meanwhile, teacher protests have been ongoing in Kathmandu for several days, particularly on the streets of Maitighar and Babarmahal.

Other groups, including victims of cooperatives, microfinance, banks, and moneylenders, have also been staging demonstrations from Shanti Baatika to the presidential palace at Sheetal Niwas. As a result, traffic in the Kathmandu Valley is expected to be disrupted.

To manage the traffic flow, the Traffic Police have made arrangements for diversions in various locations. The areas where diversions will occur include:

Khasi Bazar – Makalu – Kalanki Chowk – Bafal

Balkhu Chowk – Kuleshwar – Kalimati Chowk – Teku

Kirtipur – Sundarighat – Sainik Colony – Ekantakuna Additional diversions may be implemented in areas such as Tripureshwar, Balaju, Halchok, Naikap, Sitapaila, Chobhar, Pharping, Nakkhu, and Koteshwor. The traffic department has also urged drivers to use alternative routes.

Parking Arrangements for Protest Participants

Several parking areas have been designated for those attending the event with their vehicles. These include:

TU Gate to Chobhar Road Section

Sainik Colony Corridor Road (both sides)

Chobhar Dry Port Area

New Bus Park

Sitapaila-Bafal Road Section (one side)

Enhanced Security Measures

Given the potential for large crowds and multiple ongoing protests, security forces have been deployed across sensitive areas of the capital. The police have been instructed to ensure public safety and maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the demonstrations.

This is a developing situation, and authorities are working to minimize any disruptions while ensuring the right to peaceful assembly is respected.