CM Yogi Adityanath’s posters at Nepal's pro-monarchy rally spark controversy

A political controversy has erupted in Nepal after posters of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were displayed at a pro-monarchist rally in Kathmandu, organized to welcome former king Gyanendra Shah. The rally, attended by leaders and cadres of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), saw hundreds of supporters carrying Gyanendra’s pictures and Nepal’s national flags, with some also displaying Adityanath’s images, triggering widespread debate.

The inclusion of Adityanath’s posters drew criticism from various political factions and the public, with concerns raised over the presence of an Indian leader’s image at a Nepalese political event. Prime Minister K P Oli addressed the issue without naming Adityanath, stating, “We don’t use photographs of foreign leaders in our rallies.” The controversy follows Gyanendra’s recent visit to Uttar Pradesh in January, where he reportedly met Adityanath.

Amid backlash, RPP spokesperson Gyanendra Shahi accused the Oli-led government of orchestrating the move to discredit the monarchy movement. He alleged that Bishnu Rimal, Oli’s chief advisor, was behind the placement of Adityanath’s photographs at the rally, claiming it was done on Oli’s instructions. In response, Rimal denied the accusation, calling it “an illusion created through disinformation by the disqualified people who accidentally reached a responsible position.”

The rally was part of ongoing pro-monarchy demonstrations across Nepal, with supporters demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy, which was abolished in 2008 following the People's Movement. Gyanendra’s loyalists have intensified their activities since Democracy Day in February when the former king stated, “Time has come for us to assume responsibility to protect the country and bring about national unity.”

Supporters of the monarchy have held multiple rallies in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other cities in recent weeks. The movement has gained momentum following Gyanendra’s visits to religious sites across the country. At Sunday’s rally, motorbikes adorned with the former king’s images and national flags lined the streets as supporters cheered his arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.

While the controversy surrounding Adityanath’s posters continues, the monarchy debate remains a deeply polarizing issue in Nepal. Pro-monarchist groups continue to push for Gyanendra’s return, while mainstream political parties, including Oli’s government, have opposed any move to reinstate the monarchy. The issue has further intensified political tensions in the country.