Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) on Thursday said that police have been obstructing pro-monarchy supporters arriving in Kathmandu to participate in the rally, alleging harassment and unnecessary questioning at various entry points.

In a Facebook post, RPP Spokesperson Mohan Kumar Shrestha stated that supporters travelling via Naubise were being stopped and subjected to unwarranted checks, with authorities hindering their movement. “I urge the administration to act responsibly and ensure a peaceful environment,” he wrote.

Security agencies have ramped up surveillance across the Kathmandu Valley, anticipating large rallies by both the ruling CPN-UML and pro-Hindu monarchy supporters. Authorities fear potential clashes, with Prime Minister and UML chair KP Sharma Oli instructing security agencies to block royalist groups outside the Ring Road.

While the UML is organising a “Republic Mahotsav” at Bhrikutimandap to mark Republic Day, the royalist alliance under the “joint people’s movement committee” plans a counter-rally at nearby Ratnapark. RPP chair Rajendra Lingden has pledged a peaceful demonstration but warned of retaliation if blocked.

RPP claims that over 25,000 supporters have already entered the Valley, although police estimate the number to be significantly lower. The government has deployed large numbers of security personnel and issued orders to use force if protests turn violent, following unrest during a previous royalist rally in March.