Students affiliated to five agitating parties Tuesday protested “regression” at Ratnapark in the capital chanting “anti-King” slogans.

Students performed a mock-up of the 13th day rites of regression by covering their head with white cloth. Agitating students on January 7 burnt the effigy of “regression” in the capital amidst baton-charges by the police that left many injured.

Traffic was halted due to the possibility of clashes between the students and the police. However, no clashes occurred. Balloons with anti-regression slogans were also released.

Gagan Thapa, Secretary of Nepal Students’ Association (NSA) speaking about the position of monarchy in Nepal said, “We are launching a nation wide interaction program on ‘Kings importance in the context of Nepal’ throughout the kingdom which will outline the students’ role regarding the presence of the King in Nepal.”

Talking to Nepalnews, Thapa warned the government that use of force against them will not weaken the agitation, but instead strengthen it.