The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has appealed to the organisers of Friday’s protests to ensure that the demonstrations remain peaceful.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission called on the Socialist Front and pro-monarchy groups to maintain peace during their separate protests.

The NHRC expressed concern over the possibility of clashes between the two sides, warning that such confrontations could pose challenges to public peace and security.

The commission also held discussions on security arrangements in the Kathmandu Valley with district administration officials, district police chiefs, and representatives from the Nepal Police’s human rights cell.

During these discussions, security officials assured that all security agencies in the Kathmandu Valley are coordinating their efforts to manage the situation. A security plan has been prepared in consultation with representatives from protest organisers to ensure peace during the demonstrations.

NHRC Chairman Top Bahadur Magar emphasised that, while ensuring public safety, it is crucial to uphold human rights values and respect individuals’ rights to express their views.

The commission also urged the government and security forces to be mindful of human rights while managing the situation and maintaining peace and security during the protests.

Various pro-monarchy groups have called for a protest demanding reinstatement of Hindu kingdom, while the Socialist Front has planned a protest to safeguard the democratic federal republic system. The CPN (Maoist Centre), CPN (Unified Socialist), Nepal Communist Party led by Netra Bikram Chand Biplab and Samajbadi Party led by Mahindra Ray Yadav.

People are wary of potential clashes between the pro-republican and pro-monarchy protesters as both sides planned their demonstrations on the same day in Kathmandu. The district administration has designated different places for their demonstrations.