Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3: Monarchy and Democracy in Nepal is an important topic in Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3. They help us understand how Nepal’s government changed over time. Before it was a Hindu kingdom, then it became a monarchy, and later, a democracy.

These notes explain the challenges Nepal faced during these changes, like how the king had a lot of power and how political parties and the Maoists wanted more democracy. They also talk about important events, like protests for democracy and Nepal becoming a democratic republic. Studying these notes will help us prepare well for our exams.

Monarchy and Democracy in Nepal

Nepal transitioned from being a Hindu kingdom to a constitutional monarchy in the modern era, a change that lasted for several years. During this time, both political parties and the general populace of Nepal desired a more open and responsive system of governance. However, the king, supported by the army, maintained strict control over the government and limited the expansion of democracy in the country.

In response to a significant pro-democracy movement, the king acquiesced to the demand for a new democratic constitution in 1990. Yet, democratic governments faced numerous challenges and were short-lived. Throughout the 1990s, the Maoists of Nepal gained influence across various regions, advocating for armed rebellion against the monarchy and ruling elite. This sparked a violent conflict between Maoist guerrillas and the king’s armed forces, leading to a triangular conflict among monarchist forces, democrats, and Maoists.

In 2002, the king disbanded parliament and dismissed the government, effectively ending even the limited democracy that existed in Nepal. However, in April 2006, massive nationwide pro-democracy protests ensued, resulting in a significant victory for pro-democracy forces. The king was compelled to restore the House of Representatives, dissolved in April 2002, amidst this largely non-violent movement led by the Seven Party Alliance (SPA), the Maoists, and social activists.

Nepal’s transition to democracy is nearly complete, marked by the formation of a constituent assembly tasked with drafting the country’s constitution. While some factions in Nepal advocated for retaining a nominal monarchy to preserve historical ties, the Maoist groups agreed to halt their armed struggle, pushing instead for radical social and economic restructuring programmes in the constitution. However, not all parties within the SPA supported this agenda, and suspicions about the Indian government’s role in Nepal’s future persisted among some political groups.

In 2008, Nepal abolished the monarchy and became a democratic republic. Subsequently, in 2015, it adopted a new constitution, marking significant milestones in its democratic journey.

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Monarchy and Democracy in Nepal- FAQs

What is the historical background of Nepal’s political system?

Nepal was historically a Hindu kingdom and later transitioned into a constitutional monarchy in the modern era. However, political parties and the general public sought a more transparent and responsive government.

How did the monarchy restrict the expansion of democracy in Nepal?

The king, supported by the army, maintained strict control over the government, limiting the growth of democracy. Despite demands for a new democratic constitution, the king’s authority prevailed.

What role did the Maoists play in Nepal’s political landscape?

The Maoists advocated for armed rebellion against the monarchy and ruling elite, gaining influence across various regions. This led to a violent conflict between Maoist guerrillas and the king’s armed forces.

What were the outcomes of the pro-democracy movement in Nepal?

In response to massive pro-democracy protests, the king was compelled to restore the House of Representatives, which had been dissolved earlier. This marked a significant victory for pro-democracy forces and paved the way for Nepal’s transition to democracy.

How did Nepal’s transition to democracy unfold?

Nepal’s transition to democracy involved complex negotiations and the formation of a constituent assembly tasked with drafting a new constitution. Despite challenges and differing viewpoints, Nepal eventually abolished the monarchy and adopted a new democratic constitution in 2015.