Lesson Natural Disasters:
6.14 Earthquake and Tsunami
Engage Yourself
When did you experience the shaking of the earthquake for the first time? What were you
doing when the massive earthquake of 12th Baisakh, 2072 BS occurred in our country? Have
you ever watched any videos of tsunamis on television or the internet? Earthquake and
tsunami are terrible natural disasters. We should know their causes, effects and measures
to be safe from them.
(1) What do you mean by an earthquake and a tsunami?
(2) What are the causes and consequences of earthquakes and tsunamis?
(3) What are various measures to be safe from the earthquake and tsunami?
A variety of natural processes regularly operate inside or outside the surface of
the Earth. Sometimes such processes cause terrible events in nature and result
in serious damage and many deaths. Those natural events which cause a lot of
damage and kill a lot of people are called natural disasters. Such disasters may be
sudden and violent like earthquake or flood, or gradual like drought or the spread
of a deadly disease. They may be caused by natural factors or human factors. They
result in terrible damage, devastation, suffering, misery, and death.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines disaster as “a sudden ecological
phenomenon of sufficient magnitude to require external assistance.”
Among the natural disasters, we are going to discuss earthquakes and tsunamis
in this lesson.
Disasters
Non-natural Disasters Natural Disasters
epidemics, pandemic flu, snake bite, earthquakes, volcanoes, famines,
animal terror, road accidents, mine landslides, droughts, hurricanes, tornados,
accidents, fire, poisonous gas leakage,
extreme temperature (heat and cold)
gas explotion, and so on. wildfires, lightning
Earthquake
The surface of our planet seems solid and unmoving, but plates of the earth are
moving all the time, sometimes gently and gradually, and sometimes with a
sudden shock that makes the ground shake. Once every 30 seconds, somewhere in
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the world, Earth shakes slightly. These earth tremors are Earthquake
strong enough to be felt but cause no damage. However,
every few months, a major earthquake occurs. A sudden
movement and vibration of the crust of the earth is called
an earthquake. The land shakes so violently that roads
break up, forming huge cracks, and buildings and bridges
collapse, causing many deaths in earthquake.
In some cases, scientists can predict an earthquake is likely to occur. In 1974 AD,
for example, scientists predicted an earthquake in China, saving thousands of lives.
But earthquake prediction is not always accurate. In 2015, a major earthquake
struck central and western Nepal without warning, killing 8979 people and injuring
more than 22,300 people.
If the surface of the Earth shakes horizontally from left to right during the time
of an earthquake, it is called horizontal vibration, and if it shakes vertically
from top to bottom, it is called vertical vibration. Horizontal tremors are more
dangerous than vertical tremors. The earth vibration generated by an earthquake
or explosion is called seismic or earthquake wave. It travels through the Earth in
all directions like ripples in water. The place within Earth where an earthquake
occurs is called the focus. An earthquake is usually strongest at the epicentre, the
point on the surafce of the Earth directly above the focus. The location below where
the earthquake starts is called the hypocentre, and the area directly above it on the
surface of the Earth is called the epicentre. The impact of the Earth is felt the most
at the epicentre, and vibrations can be felt hundreds of miles from the earthquake’s
epicentre. Tremors, small vibrations, can also be felt following an earthquake.
Causes of Earthquakes
The crust of the Earth consists of several vast plates of solid rock called continental
plates. These plates move very slowly and sometimes slide past each other. Most
severe earthquakes occur where the plates meet. Sometimes the edges of the plates
grip each other and cannot move, so pressure builds up. Suddenly, the plates slip
and roll past each other due to tectonic force, making the land shake violently.
Earthquake Belts
Earthquakes occur only in certain parts of the world. There are four major areas
on the Earth where earthquakes occur frequently. They are the Pacific coast,
the Atlantic coast, the Mediterranean coast and the region of the Himalayan
mountains. The edge of the Pacific Ocean hit more than 80 % of the earthquakes
of the Earth. They are the major volcanic belts of the Earth too. Therefore, this
region is also called the ‘Ring of Fire’. About 15% of earthquakes in the world occur
around the Mediterranean Sea and the Himalayan regions of Asia. These areas
lie above the boundaries of the tectonic plates of the Earth. Small earthquakes
occur in Japan almost on a daily basis. As the deep seafloor weakens in this area,
volcanoes continue to erupt in the ocean, which causes a lot of earthquakes. As
Nepal is located in the Himalayas foothills, there is a high risk of earthquakes here
as well.
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Richter Scale
The strength of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale, which runs from
0 to 9. Charles Francis Richter, an American seismologist from the California
Institute of Technology, developed it in 1935 AD as a mathematical device to
compare the size of earthquakes. A seismograph is a sensitive device for detecting,
recording, and measuring earth tremors.
Earthquakes in Nepal
Nepal is an earthquake-prone country due to a
variety of natural factors, including its steep terrain,
rugged and fragile land condition, high peaks and
slopes, unstable tectonic processes, and variable
climatic conditions, as well as socio-economic factors
like its largely rural settlement pattern, unplanned
urbanisation, increasing population, poor economic Earthquake in Nepal
condition, unplanned settlement, and low literacy. In
fact, Nepal has been ranked in the 11th position as the most risk-prone country
in the world in terms of earthquake according to Disaster Vulnerability and Risk
Assessment Study Report by the UNDP.
The first recorded earthquake in the history of Nepal was in 1310 BS (1255 AD). One-third of
the total population of Kathmandu was killed, including Abhaya Malla, the King of Kathmandu
Valley, while numerous buildings and temples were completely destroyed. The magnitude of the
earthquake was said to be around 7.7 on the Richter scale.
Source: The Himalayan Times
The first recorded earthquake in the history of Nepal was in 1310 BS (1255 AD).
One-third of the total population of Kathmandu was killed, including Abhaya
Malla, the King of Kathmandu Valley, while numerous buildings and temples were
completely destroyed. The magnitude of the earthquake was said to be around 7.7
on the Richter scale.
Tragic earthquakes hit Nepal on 2nd Magh 1990 BS, on 5th Bhadra, 2045 BS, on 12th
Baisakh and 29th Baisakh, 2072 BS causing a great deal of damage to property.
The massive earthquake of 12th Baisakh, 2072 BS with the magnitude of 7.6 Richter
scale caused great loss of human life and property. Its epicentre was Barpak village
of Gorkha. Then, 7.3 Richter scale large aftershock centred around Sindhupalchok
on 29th Baisakh, 2072 BS, along with other continuous small aftershocks, increased
additional loss of life and property. 31 districts of Nepal had been impacted, and 14
districts (Gorkha, Dhading, Rasuwa, Sindhupalchok, Kavre, Nuwakot, Dolakha,
Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Ramechhap, Okhaldunga, Sindhuli and
Makwanpur) were declared as the most affected districts. Due to that earthquake,
many settlements became risky to live whereas historical areas and heritage sites
of the Kathmandu Valley were destroyed. 8979 people lost their lives, and more
than 22,300 people were injured due to the earthquake.
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Various neighbouring and donor countries and organisations carried out immediate
rescues, rehabilitation and reconstruction without delay after the earthquake.
They established mobile hospitals and tents to treat disaster victims. They also
provided financial and technological assistance for the reconstruction of damaged
settlement areas, monuments and cultural heritage. The Government of Nepal also
constituted the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) on Poush 10 2072 BS to
lead and facilitate the reconstruction of all physical infrastructures damaged by
the earthquake in a planned and systematic manner and on time. The government
also provided a cash grant of Rs 3,00,000 to each family for the reconstruction of
their houses.
Nepal has been observing Earthquake Safety Day on the 2nd of Magh, according to Nepali
Calendar every year in commemoration of BS 1990 Great Earthquake by organising various
safety and awareness programmes.
Tsunami Tsunami
The word tsunami is a Japanese word. A tsunami
is a series of waves travelling across the ocean due
to a sudden displacement of a large body of water.
This displacement can be caused by events such as
undersea earthquakes, undersea landslides, land
sliding into the ocean, volcanic eruptions or even
asteroid impacts. They used to be called tidal waves,
but it is now known that they are not caused by tides.
Today, they are called by their Japanese name, which
means “harbour wave.”
Tidal waves are caused by tidal effects like the moon, wind or seasonal change, while tsunamis
are most commonly caused by undersea earthquakes.
Tsunami waves are larger and faster than normal surface waves. A tsunami wave
can travel as fast as a jet plane and can be as tall as a ten-story building. When
we drop a stone into a pond, the water on the surface ripples. A tsunami is like a
very powerful ripple. Tsunamis begin when the ocean rises or falls very suddenly.
Large amounts of seawater are displaced. This movement causes huge waves. The
average speed of a tsunami is usually 450 miles (around 725 km) per hour. It
destroys coastal settlements and causes great damage to properties. Japan is the
country that suffers the highest number of tsunamis.
A 2004 tsunami on the coast of the Indonesian island of Sumatra affected the
entire Indian Ocean region. The tsunami flooded much of the surrounding area,
destroying much of the property. About four million people were killed at that
time. A previous earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011 killed at least 15,894
people, injured 6,152 and left 2,562 missing. Tsunamis cannot be stopped, but
there are ways to defend against them. Scientists around the world watch for early
signs of earthquakes. They also note unusual changes in ocean levels. With this
information, scientists can warn people to leave areas that a tsunami might hit.
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There is no risk of a tsunami in a landlocked country like Nepal. However, as the
number of Nepali citizens migrating abroad has increased in recent years, one
needs to know preventive measures to be safe from potential danger of the tsunami
while working in the coastal areas.
Effects of Earthquake and Tsunami
(a) Huge destruction of lives, wealth and properties.
(b) Massive destruction of development structures and cultural heritage.
(c) Chances of more calamities as diseases and epidemic can spread.
(d) Chances of eruption and volcanoes when there are formations of cracks on the
surface of the Earth.
(e) Sources of water may leak and disappear.
(f) Various land structures such as rift valley, mountains, and lakes get formed or
collapsed.
Earthquakes and Tsunamis Prevention and Preparedness
Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, are inevitable. They occur all
of a sudden. It is always a good idea to be conscious of their causes and consequences.
People who live in areas vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis should always
maintain a high degree of alertness and take adequate safety precautions. They
should consider the following safety precautions before and during the disasters to
reduce the damage.
(a) Pre-preparation and preventive measures should be applied to minimise the
impact of the disasters.
(b) Disaster resistant structures should be constructed and used.
(c) Emergency provisions should be kept ready for the calamitous time.
(d) Easy access to information should be provided to all people to be safe from
possible disasters.
Activities
(1) What safety and precautionary measures should be taken before, during and
after an earthquake? Discuss and prepare a list of any three ways of each
phase to present in the classroom.
(2) Write a couple of paragraphs about the massive earthquake that hit Nepal in
2072 BS and share it with your friends.
(3) How does a seismograph measure the magnitude of an earthquake? Find its
working procedures on the internet or any reliable source and share it in the
class.
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Exercise
(1) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) What are natural disasters? How can you say that earthquakes and tsunami
are natural disasters?
(b) What is an earthquake? Is it possible to prevent it? Explain in a short
paragraph.
(c) Give a short introduction to earthquake belts and the Richter scale.
(d) Differentiate between epicentre and hypocentre.
(e) Write any four major difference between earthquake and tsunami.
(f) Although an earthquake cannot be prevented, its damage can be minimised.
How? Write any four measures.
(g) What roles can the government play to make the people aware, alert and
prepared for various natural disasters? Mention any four roles.
(h) Write any two causes and consequences of both earthquake and tsunami.
Community Work
How often do natural disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, forest
fire, etc., occur in your community? What are their causes and consequences?
What can be preventive and safety measures to minimise their damage? Write
a short report including answers to these questions.
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Lesson Methods of Drawing Map and
6.15 Modern Technology
Engage Yourself
Imagine that you are representing our country in an international conference. The
representatives of other countries have introduced their countries drawing map. They
also introduced famous places locating them in the map. It is your turn to do so but you
have no any idea about drawing our country's map. What will happen in this situation?
Have you ever thought about it? Which methods of drawing map do you like? We need
to practice drawing our country's map with free hand method. We should be able to locate
important places in it.
(1) Have you ever followed various steps to draw the map?
(2) What would you do to make your map work attractive and authentic?
The history of making map is very old. Some Drawing Map
scholars used map during Greek Civilisation,
too. There are various methods of sketching map.
People are using both the traditional and modern
techniques of drawing map. There are some
traditional methods of drawing map from the
beginning of human civilisation. However, some
modern techniques are also introduced at present
to draw the map by using modern tools.
Traditional Methods of Drawing Maps
a. Free Hand Methods Free hand methods
This method is used to draw map by looking N
the original map. There is no scale in this type
of map. This is a thematic map, which has no
accuracy.
b. Graphic or Square Method
In this technique, a squared graph is made
above the original map. Same sized, enlarged
or reduced graph is made in another plain
paper to copy the original map. This method
is more accurate in comparison to other
techniques.
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c. Triangular Method
In this method, a triangular graph is made
above the original map. Another triangle is
made in proportional ratio to copy the map on
a plain paper. This method is similar to the
square method. It is used to sketch rivers, lakes
or protected areas.
d. Carbon Method Trangular method
A carbon paper is required to draw the map by
this method. In this technique, the carbon paper
is kept under the original map to trace another
map in plain paper.
e. Tracing Table Method Tracing table method
In this method, we can use a tracing table to
draw the map on thick paper. Two bulbs are
used under the table which is made of glass.
We should keep plain paper above an original
map. We can practice it in a dark room to draw
perfectly.
f. Tracing Method
In the tracing method, a tracing paper is used
above the map to draw a new map in a tracing
paper.
g. Pantograph Method Pantograph method
A pantograph is an instrument like pencil
compass which is used to draw the map by the
help of original map.
Modern Techniques of Drawing Maps
There are various methods of drawing map by using modern techniques. Map is a
global language. Various signs and symbols are used to denote different places and
objects. A short description of some of the modern techniques are described below:
Geographic Information System (GIS)
GIS is designed to capture, input, store, retrieve, manipulate, analyse, manage
and present special or geographic data. It helps to edit the data of map and
present the result. This is the science of geographic concepts, applications and
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systems. Data is used in order to support various Source and use of data
segments of developmental works. GIS helps while drawing map in GIS
to enhance the decision-making and planning
process. It is also assistances to draw map from
the source of satellites launched in space. It
supports in processing the data about information
of the earth's surface in computer. It is useful in
various sectors such as planning, management,
engineering, transportation, logistics, insurance,
telecommunications, business, and so on. GIS is
helpful to locate the images with reference to the
altitudes, longitudes, latitudes and other physical
and political details in the map. The extents in the
Earth space time may be recorded as the dates or
times of occurrence.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
The Global Positioning System is a satellite-
based radio navigation system owned by the US
government. It provides geolocation and time
information to the GPS receivers. It is based on
the radio waves and obstructed by the mountains
or buildings. Firstly, it was introduced by the US
Army in 1973 AD. It becomes fully operational
from 1995 AD. There is an instrument having this
facility. It is also available on the smartphone. We GPS device used in survey
can read Longitudes, latitudes, altitude, time and
distance between places with the help of GPS. It is also helpful to calculate the
area of the surveyed portion of the Earth.
Google Map
Google earth is a computer Google map
programme which displays the
three-dimensional representation of
the Earth. It is based on the satellite
images. It supports seeing different
landscapes and cities from various
angle. This type of programme can
be downloaded from the smartphone,
tablets and laptops. The internet
service is required to operate this
program. It helps us to see the
satellite images of our locality and
various parts of the globe as well.
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Activities
(1) Draw a map of any country, states, or district by using the following methods
and present it on the display board of your classroom.
i. Free Hand Method
ii. Carbon Method
iii. Triangular Method
iv. Graphic Method
Exercise
(1) Give short answers of the given questions.
(a) Write about any four traditional methods of drawing a map.
(b) Differentiate between GIS and GPS.
(c) Why should we use modern techniques of drawing map? Write your opinion
in four points.
(d) Draw a map of Nepal by using any one method described in the lesson.
(2) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Draw any two maps of Nepal by using graphic method and do the
enlargement and reduction of the map using the same method.
(b) Introduce the modern techniques of drawing map and write the advantages
of using modern techniques in map making.
Community Work
Open Google map on your computer or laptop and identify your village. Take
a screenshot of the map of your locality, take out a print and enlarge it in
a chart paper to show details of your locality (use graphic methods for the
enlargement of the map).
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Lesson Map Work:
6.16 Drawing Map of Nepal
Engage Yourself
Imagine that you are representing our country in an international conference where
people from other nations have drawn their countries' maps and introduced themselves
and their countries showing different famous places. It is your turn to do so but you have
no any idea about drawing the map of our country. What will you do in this situation?
Have you ever thought about it? Which methods of drawing map do you know? We need
to practice drawing our country's map with free hand method. We should be able to locate
important places in it.
(1) Have you ever followed various steps to draw the map?
(2) What would you do to make your map work attractive and authentic?
A map is the proportional representation of the land on a plain sheet of paper. It
gives detail information about the earth's surface. Different signs and symbols are
used in the map to make it easier to read. Such signs and symbols are known as
conventional symbols. Various skills are used to draw the map. These skills are
called cartographic skills. There are some basic requirements for drawing a map.
Conventional signs and symbols, north line, legend/index, scale and title of map
are essential elements while drawing the map.
Some of the conventional symbols used in the map are shown below. Draw these
symbols in your exercise book and try to search more symbols used in the map as
you can.
Conventional Symbols used in the Map
River District boundary
Lakes , Zonal/Regional boundary
, International boundary
Mountain Peaks
Mountain range Roadway/Highway
Mountain chain
Glacier Railway
, Ropeway
Waterfall
Dam Grassland
Industry
Canal
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Airport Settlement areas
Church Desert
Stupa Sea/Ocean
Mosque Highlands
Pass Rift valley
NP, WLR (Protected Goldmine
HR, CA Areas) Diamond mine
Bridge
There are various types of map. They are political, physical, cadastral, thematic
and so on. Maps are useful to us for various purposes. It is helpful to show the
distribution of different facts and figures.
Drawing Map of Nepal by Using Graphic Methods
There are various methods of drawing a map. Among them, we practise graphic
method to draw the map of Nepal in this lesson. Actually, we can draw map with
the help of the original map in this method. If we practise several times inside the
graphs or boxes as shown below. Then only we can draw it without original map.
We should try to draw nearer to accuracy. We can follow the different steps of
drawing the map as shown in the box below.
Step 1:
4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm
Take an original map and draw
a graph above the original map.
Then mark the extended parts
of the map in the graph. Draw
a rectangle having 20 cm length
and 12 cm width in your exercise
book. Mark at the interval of 4
cm horizontally and vertically to
draw a graph as shown below.
Mark only a few extended parts
of the map as shown in graph:
scale: 1cm = 40km
Step 2:
Mark some of the extended parts of the map such as; Mt Changla, Mt Mustang,
Mt Everest, Mt Kanchenjunga, Bhimdattanagar, Dhangadi, Nepalgunj, Chitwan,
Birgunj and Jhapa inside the graph. Again, add some more extended parts like Mt
Ganesh, Mt Langtang and Mt Gaurishankar between Mt Mustang and Mt Everest
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and also mark some names like Limpiyadhura, Mt Api, Lumbini, Janakpur, and
Koshi Barrage on the map as shown below:
4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm
scale: 1cm = 40km
Step 3:
Join all parts to complete drawing map of Nepal as shown in graph:
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Step 4:
Mention north line, international boundary line, boarder line, and scale as shown
below to complete the map work of Nepal. Insert some information by using legend.
4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm 4cm
N
scale: 1cm = 40km
Activities
(1) Discuss in the class and write about:
(a) Definition of map
(b) Types of map
(c) Definition of thematic map
(d) Components essential to complete the map work
(2) Draw any five maps of Nepal and insert the following facts within them
separately by using appropriate signs and symbols.
(a) Mt. Gurans, Gadimai Temple, Khaptad NP, Lake Rara, Tea producing area
and Liwang.
(b) Jute Producing Area, Mt Kanjirowa, Indra Sarowar, Upper Tamakoshi
Hydropower, Chandannath temple, Dhunche and Babai River
(c) Mt. Byas, Tamor River, Gorakhnath Temple, Sallibazar, Lake Ghoda-Ghodi
and Chame
(d) Chilime River, Cotton Production Area, Kanchenjunga CA, Diktel, Jame
Masjid and Thirbam Malla highway
(e) Budhi Ganga River, Coffee production area, Api-Nampa CA, Tikapur,
Tsang-boche Gumba and Mid-hill highway
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Unit Study of History
7
Introduction
Everybody has to know the past events that happened in his or her personal life, family,
community, society, country and the world. Every citizen of a country should be conscious
regarding his or her past. Those incidents that happened in the past are the milestones for
his or her personal life. Therefore, some important events in the history of Nepal, as well as
the world, are included in this unit.
In this unit, we study the revolution of 2007 BS, Delhi agreement, political events from 2007
BS onwards and their socio-economic impacts on our society and country.
We also learn the causes and effects of the First and Second World Wars. We learn the
ways to explore, identify, preserve, and promote the historical site and monuments of our
society, and the nation in this unit.
Learning Outcomes
On the completion of this unit, the students will be able to:
• explain the main reasons for the revolution of 2007 BS in Nepal and the Delhi
agreement;
• tell about the major political events from 2007 BS onwards and their socio-economic
effects in Nepal;
• tell the causes and consequences of the First and the Second World Wars; and
• describe the procedures to explore, identify, preserve and promote the historical site
and monuments.
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Lesson Revolution of 2007 and
Delhi Agreement
7.1
Engage Yourself
Have you ever seen any revolutionary activities in your area? What did the rebels do
during revolution at that time? A revolution is a successful attempt by a large group of
people to change their country's political system. These revolutions supported people to
get their rights. Mass revolution 2007 BS is one of the successful revolutions of Nepal.
This revolution was settled through a tripartite agreement among Rana, Congress and
King under the arbitration of the Indian Government in New Delhi. It is known as the
Delhi agreement.
(1) What were the causes and consequences of mass revolution in 2007 BS?
(2) What are the major events and dates of the people's revolution 2007?
(3) What do you know about the main points of the Delhi Agreement?
(4) What is the declaration of democracy and its effects in Nepali society?
(5) Explain the role of people to establish democracy in Nepal?
Nepal is an independent and sovereign country. Any foreigner has not ruled it since
the ancient period. However, Nepali people had to face dictatorship and autocracy
time and again. Absolute monarchy, Rana rule, and Panchayat system were the
major autocratic ruling systems in Nepal. Rana rule, one of such ruling systems,
lasted for 104 years from 1903 to 2007 BS in Nepal. Junga Bahadur Rana started
this rule.
Although it was the rule of terror and suppression, anti-Rana
activities could not take place in the beginning due to a lack
of awareness in the people. Along with the development of
education, awareness in the people increased. It extended the
Anti-Rana Movement in an organised way. Finally, Nepali
people launched a mass revolution against autocratic Rana
rule in 2007 BS. This revolution which established democracy
overthrowing Rana rule, is popularly known as the Mass
Revolution of 2007 BS in the history of Nepal.
Many organisations were established to organise the people King Tribhuvan
against Rana rule. Prachanda Gorkha, established in 1988
BS, is the first Anti-Rana organisation in Nepal. As its activities could not be
more effective, Praja Parisad was established in Ombahal, Kathmandu on 20th
Jestha 1993 BS. It was the first political party established to protest against Rana
rule. Tanka Prasad Acharya (Chairperson), Dashrath Chand (Vice-Chairperson),
Ramhari Sharma (General Secretary), Dharma Bhakta Mathema (member), and
Jeevraj Sharma (member) were the founder members of this party.
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The political parties extended anti-Rana activities in Nepal. The great democratic
soldiers, namely Dharma Bhakta Mathema, Shukra Raj Shastri, Dashrath Chand
and Gangalal Shrestha got martyrdom in 1997 BS in the course of the anti-Rana
movement. King Tribhuvan was a victim of Rana rulers, just like the Nepali
people. Therefore, he had a secret connection with the members of Praja Parisad.
He supported the activities of the party, economically and morally. Similarly, the
‘Jayantu Sanskritam Movement’ launched by the students of Tindhara Pathsala
in 2004 BS, the establishment of the Nepali Congress in 2003 BS, and the
establishment of the Communist Party of Nepal in 2006 BS made the movement
more effective. Then, the Rana rule came to an end.
Causes of Mass Revolution of 2007 BS
Injustice and Suppressive Rana Rule:
After the establishment of Rana rule, Junga Bahadur Rana prepared the role
of succession to his brothers for the premiership. This brought the trend of
holding the post of the Prime Minister by the Rana family only. The high-
ranking posts in the government offices were also reserved for the Rana family.
This provisions made Rana rulers and their family members enjoy unlimited
power and authority. The common people were deprived of their basic rights.
They were also deprived of justice. The worldwide movement of democracy
also could not change the thought of Ranas. They kept on suppressing the
people. Therefore, people were against the Rana rule.
Establishment of Political Parties and Their Movement:
Political parties, such as the Praja Parisad, the Nepali Congress and the
Communist Party of Nepal were established in Nepal. They organised the
people to launch anti Rana movement and led the Mass Revolution of 2007 BS.
Internal Clash Among Ranas:
There was not unity among Ranas due to their classification into A, B, and C
classes. The 'C' class Ranas were not included in the role of a succession of the
Prime Minister. Therefore, they supported the Anti-Rana Movement.
Increase in Political Consciousness in People:
The people who were outside the country had witnessed the democratic
movement in different countries. The educated people joined different political
parties and actively participated in making the people aware of their rights.
Then, the people actively participated in theaAnti-Rana movement along with
the rise of political awareness among them.
World War-II and World Wide Wave of Democracy:
After the end of World War-II, the Nepali soldiers who participated in the
war returned to Nepal. They joined the Liberation Army of Nepali Congress.
Several countries of the world became independent from colonial rule. Nepali
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students who participated in the Indian War of Independence also actively
participated in the Anti Rana Movement. This paved the way to end the Rana
rule.
Poverty and Unemployment:
Agriculture was the main occupation of the people during the Rana rule in
Nepal. They were also engaged in industry sector. However, agriculture was
traditional, and industries were limited during the Rana rule. This could not
give enough employment opportunities to the people. The majority of people
were under the poverty line. A handful of people from the Rana family were
enjoying a luxurious life. Therefore, there was no other option except to launch
a revolution against injustice and discrimination.
Major Events in Mass Movement of 2007
Declaration of Armed Revolution
Nepali Congress had a conference at Bairgania on Mohan Shumsher
11th and 12th of Aswin, 2007 BS. This conference
decided to launch an armed revolution against the
tyrannical Rana rule. This war was declared on 21st
Kartik, 2007 BS. King Tribhuvan also left the palace
and took asylum in Indian Embassy along with his
family members. He went to India by Indian Air Force
Helicopter on 23rd Kartik, 2007 BS. Prime Minister
Mohan Shumsher enthroned Gyanendra, the four-year
old second grandson of King Tribhuvan.
This act of Mohan Shumsher was criticised at the national and international
level. This made the Rana rule weaker.
Activities of the Liberation Army
The Liberation Army, organised by the Nepali Congress, captured the eastern
hills, including Biratnagar. Thirbam Malla and Puran Singh commanded the
Liberation Army in Birgunj. Thirbam Malla also got martyrdom in the course
of the war. BP Koirala and Shubarna Shumsher led the Liberation Army
in Eestern Nepal. Dr KI Singh led the Liberation Army in Western Nepal.
The Liberation Army got succeed in Bhairahawa under his leadership. The
Liberation Army captured Diktel, Ilam, Aathrai, Terhathum, Okhaldhunga,
Parwanipur, Bridge over the Sirsiya River, Bhairahawa, Kailali, Kanchanpur,
Doti, Biratnagar, Rangeli, Malangwa, Upardang Gadhi, Birgunj, and Parasi
with the armed confrontation.
Some places such as Bhojpur, Khotang, Dhankuta, Mahottari, Mahinath, Thori,
Chitwan, Taulihawa, Palpa, Pokhara, Gulmi, Syangja, Baglung, Koilabas, Dang,
Deukhuri, Dadeldhura, Surkhet, Dailekh, Baitadi, Shivaraj and Khajhani were
captured without armed confrontation. The Liberation Army kept on forming
people’s government wherever they captured.
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The Ranas were asked to pay taxes. This made the Ranas
limited in the Kathmandu Valley. Then, Mohan Shumsher
sent his son Bijay Shumsher to Delhi and requested the
Indian government to mediate for a solution. On Indian
Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's arbitration, a tripartite
agreement among the Ranas, Congress and the King, was
signed on 1st Falgun, 2007 BS. It is known as the Delhi
Agreement. It had the following provisions:
Election of Constituent Assembly to be held to draft a
new constitution.
Ten members’ interim cabinet including five members Dr KI Singh
from the Congress and five members from the Ranas to
be formed.
King Tribhuvan to be the legitimate King, and all the power exercised by
'Shree 3 Maharaj" are to be delivered to the King.
Except for those charged with criminal cases, political prisoners are to be freed
without any condition.
Protestors should stop the movement and hand over their weapons to the
government.
After the Delhi agreement, King Tribhuvan returned Nepal on 4th Falgun, 2007
BS. Nepali Congress announced the end of the movement. But, Dr KI Singh did not
accept the agreement and continued the revolution. He did not like the presence of
Ranas in the democratic government. Later on, a case of treason was filed against
him. He was also arrested and imprisoned. Then, the revolution was suppressed.
Interim Cabinet Formed After Delhi Agreement
Representatives From Portfolio Representatives From Portfolio
the Ranas Nepali Congress
Prime Minister and Minister for Home
Mohan Shumsher Foreign Minister BP Koirala Affairs
Babar Shumsher Minister for Shubarna Shumsher Minister for Finance
Chudaraj Shumsher Defence Ganeshman Singh
Minister for Forest Minister for
Nripajungh Rana Bhadrakali Mishra Industry and
Yagya Bahadur Basnet Minister for Bharatmani Sharma Commerce
Education Minister for
Health and Local Transport
Minister Minister for Food
and Agriculture
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Consequences of the Mass Revolution of 2007 BS
The Mass Revolution of 2007 is a historical movement. Its successful end was a
breakthrough in the history of Nepal. The major consequences of the revolution
are given below.
It ended the tyrannical Rana rule, the rule of order and terror, which was
popularly known as Hukumi rule and established democracy.
People got right, freedom, and their participation in state affairs increased.
The first written constitution of Nepal, Interim Government Act of Nepal,
2007 was promulgated on 17th Chaitra, 2007 BS.
Development in education, culture, and literature began in Nepal.
Nepal got membership of the UNO and started getting exposure in the
international arena.
Activities
(1) Make a list of dates and events related to the anti-Rana Movement and their
effects in the following table.
S.N. Events Date Activities Effects
2003 B.S. Formed Became successful
1. Establishment Liberation Army in capturing many
of Nepali places.
2. Congress
3.
4.
5.
(2) Conduct a debate programme on ‘Delhi Agreement was right or wrong’ in
the class and note down the points presented by your friends.
(3) Prepare a chronological chart of major events given in the lesson with dates
and display in the class. Example:
Chronology
• 1903 BS – Establishment of Rana Autocracy by Junga Bahadur Rana.
•
•
•
•
•
• 7th Falgun, 2007 BS – Rana rule came to an end, and democracy was
introduced in the country.
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Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Which is the first political party in Nepal? When was it established?
(b) Why is the Delhi agreement called a tripartite agreement?
(c) Who led the Liberation Army in Birgunj?
(d) What ministry was given to Bharatmani Sharma in the interim cabionet
formed after Delhi agreement?
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Evaluate the role of political parties in the Mass Revolution of 2007 BS.
(b) Write a letter to your friend mentioning the major events of the Mass
Revolution of 2007 BS.
(c) Was it good to file a case of treason against Dr KI Singh? Explain your answer
with logic.
(d) Make a list of changes that took place as consequences of the mass revolution
2007 in Nepal.
(e) 'Conducting the election of the constituent assembly to draft constitution
with people’s representative was the dream of the Nepali people expressed
in the Mass Revolution of 2007 BS. However, it was fulfilled only in 2072.
Why?
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) What are the causes of the Mass Revolution of 2007 BS? Introduce them in
brief.
(b) What is the Delhi agreement? When was it signed? Make a list of the
provisions in the Delhi agreement in your own words.
Project Work
Draw an outline map of Nepal and locate the Liberation army's places with
the armed confrontation and without armed confrontation giving separate
symbols.
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Lesson A Decade of Democratic
Politics (2007-2017 BS)
7.2
Engage Yourself
Do you like democratic system of ruling? What benefits do people get from democracy?
Nepal experienced democracy in between Panchayat and Rana rules from 2007 BS
to 2017 BS. The decade of the democratic period 2007 to 2017 BS was the period of
instability, unrest and politically failure. There was conflict among the political parties
which formed the government. Finally, the democracy brought at the cost of blood, sweat
and sacrifice of Nepali people came to an end in 2017 BS.
(1) What do you know about the events after 2007 BS to 2017 BS?
(2) Which governments were formed during the decade 2007 to 2017 BS?
(3) Is the period 2007 BS to 2017 BS a decade of political instability? Give your opinion
to support your answer.
(4) Which of the constitutions of Nepal were promulgated during this decade?
(5) Can you show the major events from 2007 BS to 2017 BS in a timeline?
(6) What do you know about Bhim Dutta Panta and Tanka Prasad Acharya
Nepal had experienced a long dark age in its history from 1903 BS to 2007 BS.
There was a despotic rule of Rana during this period which deprived the people of
their right. With a long struggle and sacrifice, the dawn of democracy was brought
on 7th Falgun, 2007 BS with the royal proclamation of King Tribhuvan. This
proclamation had also ended the Rana rule. Political parties such as the Nepali
Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal commenced party politics in Nepal.
Therefore, the decade 2007 to 2017 BS is popularly known as the history of party
politics and democracy.
The political situation of this period was not satisfactory. This duration was a
period of failure from a political point of view. The election of constituent assembly
announced through the royal proclamation could not be held. The government
could not remain stable. The decade passed with the formation and dissolution of
several governments. Consequently, King Mahendra suspended democractic rule
to introduce the party-less Panchayat System.
Major Political Events from 2007 to 2017 BS
Promulgation of Interim Constitution: There was a Rana Congress alliance
government under the premiership of Mohan Shumsher. This government
promulgated the Interim Government Act 2007 on 17th Chaitra, 2007 BS. It was
the second written constitution of Nepal after the Nepal Government Act, 2004 BS.
This constitution had 7 parts, 73 articles, and 3 schedules. It had the provisions
of directive principles and the policies of the government to encourage the ruling
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system through the representatives of the people. It also had the provisions of the
council of ministers, chief court, advisory council, election commission, financial
procedures, and so on.
Conflict in Interim Cabinet: There was a conflict between the Ranas and the
Congress. Rana’s intention was to restore their rule in Nepal. The Nepali Congress
focused on strengthening democracy. Over time, Chiniya Kaji Shrestha, a student
leader, was assassinated. Nepali Congress and Rana blamed each other for the
casualty. Then, the coalition government could not work smoothly. Nepali Congress
realised that they could not do anything until Mohan Shumsher remained in power.
Therefore, all the ministers from the Nepali Congress party resigned from the post
on 25th Kartik, 2008 BS. This compelled the Ranas to resign from the post. Next
day, Prime Minister Mohan Shumsher resigned. Finally, the Interim Coalition
Government of the Ranas and the Congress got dissolved.
Single Party Government of the Nepali Congress
King Tribhuvan formed a fourteen-members-cabinet of the Matrika Prasad Koirala
Nepali Congress under the premiership of Matrika Prasad
Koirala on 1st Mangsir, 2008 BS. It was the second government
in democracy after the coalition government of the Ranas
and the Nepali Congress. This government had the following
responsibilities.
To establish a department of an independent judiciary.
To implement the provisions of the Public Service
Commission effectively.
To conduct the election of the Constituent Assembly
within 2009 BS.
To ensure the civil rights of the people.
This government also could not work properly. It was dissolved
due to the following reasons.
Demand of All-party government: Nepal Praja
Parisad, Communist Party of Nepal and other existing
parties and organisations had formed a United Democratic
Front. They demanded an all-party government. Dr K.I. Singh
Revolt of Dr Kunwar Indrajit Singh: Dr KI Singh
revolted against this government. He was imprisoned in the Singha Durbar.
His supporters attacked the Singha Durbar, demanding his release. Later on,
the government released him.
Movement Launched by Bhim Dutta Panta: Bhim Dutta Panta, a commander
of the People's Liberation Army, launched a movement with the demand of
land ownership, the welfare of people and security. His dissatisfaction with
this government made the government weaker.
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Conflict within the Nepali Congress: BP Koirala, own brother of the Prime
Minister, had thought that a single person should not hold both posts of party
chairperson and Prime Minister at a time. This thought gave birth to the
conflict within the Nepali Congress and made the government weaker.
Formation of Advisory Government
With the intention of direct rule, King Tribhuvan formed an advisory government on
30th Shrawan, 2009 BS. It had five members, including General Keshar Shumsher.
Those five members had to be solely responsible to the King. It had the provisions
that all those five members should be responsible to the King, and the King should
approve the decisions made in its meeting. This government was dissolved on 2nd
Asar, 2010 BS because of the following reasons.
This government could not function effectively because of the protest from
political parties.
There was a rapid increase in the external intervention.
Peasants Revolt started in eastern Nepal under the leadership of the Nepali
Congress.
Single Party Government of the Nepal Praja Party
Nepali Congress got split due to internal conflict. Matrika Prasad Koirala opened
a new political party named Nepal Praja Party. After the advisory government
was dissolved, King Tribhuvan announced the government of five members under
the leadership of Matrika Prasad Koirala on 2nd Asar, 2010 BS. This government
was dissolved after his resignation on 19th Falgun, 2011 BS. The downfall of this
government took place because of the following reasons.
Entry of armed Indian soldiers to Nepal.
Protest against the Koshi Agreement.
Revolt of Bhim Dutta Panta and his assassination on 7th Bhadra, 2010 BS.
Direct Rule of King Mahendra and Advisory Government:
King Tribhuvan died on 30th Falgun, 2011 BS. King Mahendra ascended on the
throne on 4th Chaitra, 2011 BS. He formed advisory government of five members
under the co-ordination of Gunja Man Singh on 1st Baisakh, 2012 BS and started a
direct rule in Nepal. This government continued up to 12th Magh, 2012 BS.
Government of the Praja Parisad
Tanka Prasad Acharya was an active member of the Praja Parisad. He was
imprisoned along with other members of the Praja Parisad, namely Dharma Bhakta
Mathema, Shukra Raj Shastri, Dasarth Chand, and Gangalal Shrestha. These
four members of the party were given the death penalty. They got martyrdom.
Tanka Prasad Acharya was not given the death penalty along with them as he was
from the Brahmin caste. By religious codes, the Ranas would not kill Brahmins.
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Therefore, Acharya is called the ‘Living Martyr of Nepal’. Later on, he became
the President of Praja Parisad. Under his leadership, a cabinet was formed on
13th Magh, 2012 BS. This cabinet had seven members, including 3 independent
members. The government was dissolved on 31st Asar, 2014 BS due to the inability
to hold the general election, extreme economic crisis and efforts to ban newspapers.
Government under Leadership of Dr KI Singh
Dr KI Singh was in China living a banished life. King Mahendra invited him in
Nepal, and formed the government of eleven members under his premiership.
This government also could not work longer. It was dissolved through a royal
proclamation of King Mahendra on 29th Kartik, 2016 BS.
Direct Rule of King Mahendra
King Mahendra started direct rule from 29th Kartik, 2014 BS. He also formed a
Constitution Drafting Committee of five members under Bhagawati Prasad Singh's
chairpersonship on 3rd Chaitra, 2014 BS. Some foreign experts were also included
in the committee.
The direct rule of King Mahendra came to an end on 2nd Jestha, 2015 BS. On the
same day, interim cabinet of six members was formed under the chairpersonship of
Suvarna Shumsher. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal 2015 was prepared
during the period of this cabinet. This constitution was promulgated on 1st Falgun,
2015 BS. The first general election was held on 7th Falgun, 2015 BS for 109 seats.
Then, this government was dissolved on 2nd Jestha, 2016 BS after it completed all
the task assigned to it.
The First General Election and First Elected Government
Nine political parties contested in the first General Election held in 2015 BS.
According to the final result announced on 28th Baisakh, 2016 BS, the Nepali
Congress got the majority with 74 seats. Then, elected government of 19 members
was formed under the premiership of BP Koirala on 13th Jestha, 2016 BS. BP
Koirala became the first elected Prime Minister, and Krishna Prasad Bhattarai
became the first Speaker of the House. The elected government was dissolved on
1st Poush, 2017 BS.
Activities
(1) Discuss in the class and prove that ‘the decade 2007-2017 BS remained
extremely politically instable in Nepal’ and note down the points brought in
the discussion to prove the statement.
(2) Enlist the main events from 2007 BS to 2017 BS with dates, and show them in
a timeline.
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Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Why is the decade 2007 BS to 2017 BS called the decade of party politics
and democracy?
(b) What was the main issue of conflict in the interim cabinet formed in
2007 BS?
(c) Who was the Prime Minister of the single party government of Nepali
Congress formed on 1st Mangsir, 2008 BS?
(d) Why did King Tribhuvan form an advisory government in 2009 BS?
(e) How many members were there in government under the leadership of Dr
KI Singh?
(f) When did King Mahandra’s direct rule start?
(g) How many governments were changed during the decade 2007 BS to
2017 BS?
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) What were the main reasons for dissolving the single-party government of
the Nepali Congress? Clarify each reason in your own words.
(b) Who was Bhim Dutta Panta? Why was he assassinated.?
(c) Why was Dr KI Singh called from China and made Prime Minister? Give your
logic in four points.
(d) Write the similarities and differences between the single-party government
of the Nepali Congress and Praja Parisad.
(e) Why is Tanka Prasad Acharya called the 'Living Martyr of Nepal'?
(f) Which government do you like the most among the governments during the
decade 2007 -2017 BS? Write your opinion in four points.
(g) Write about the first general election in your own words.
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Make a list of governments formed during the decade 2007 to 2017 BS
with the names of their Prime Ministers and explain any three reasons for
frequent change in the government.
(b) When was the single-party government of Matrika Prasad Koirala formed?
Write down the main duties given to it and explain any three reasons for its
dissolution.
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Lesson Abduction of Democracy and
Ban on Political Parties
7.3
Engage Yourself
Which system of ruling do you like autocracy or democracy? How do you feel if your
rights are seized after you had enjoyed them for some time? The same situation happened
in the Nepalese history. Nepali people had got democracy after a long struggle and great
sacrifice in 2007 BS. However, democracy could not last long. From Interim government
of the Rana and the Congress to elected government of Nepali Congress in 2016 BS
tried to sustain democracy. Finally, King Mahendra introduced the autocratic party-less
Panchayat system by banning political parties and multiparty democracy in 2017 BS.
(1) What are major differences between democracy and autocracy system of ruling?
(2) Why did the democracy brought at the cost of blood, sweat and sacrifice of Nepali
people end?
(3) What socio-economic changes took place in our country during a decade from 2007
BS to 2017 BS?
Democracy was introduced in 2007 BS with the effort of political parties, people, and
King Tribhuvan. After the introduction of democracy, the
political situation became unstable. Party politics took place
as many political parties were active. Many governments
were formed and dissolved one after another. After the
general election 2015 BS, an elected government of the
Nepali Congress was formed on 13th Jestha, 2016 BS. This
government ended the political confusion and instability to
a certain extent. Many social and economic reforms were
made. Because of this, the first elected Prime Minister,
BP Koirala and his government got popularity. However,
King Mahendra did not like it. He was an ambitious person B.P. Koirala
who wanted to take state power into his hands. Therefore,
he dissolved the government using
article 55 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2015.
King Mahendra King Mahendra made a royal proclamation on 1st Poush,
2017 BS. He dissolved the elected government, suspended
the parliament, and banned the political parties through
this proclamation. After this proclamation, the democracy
established at the cost of blood, sweat and sacrifice of
the people came to an end. Similarly, human rights and
fundamental rights of the people were seized. This day is
considered the 'Black Day' in the history of Nepal.
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Four hours before the proclamation, the Royal Nepal Army arrested all the ministers,
including Prime Minister BP Koirala. Curfew was imposed from the night of 1st
Poush, 2017 BS in front of the Royal Palace. There was an army patrolling in the
city. King Mahendra mobilised the army to torture and terrify the common people.
The party-less panchayat system was introduced on 22nd Poush, 2017 BS. This act
of King Mahendra is known as the 'Royal Coup of 2017' in the history of Nepal.
Achievements in the Decade 2007 to 2017 BS
Although the decade from 2007 BS to 2017 BS was the period of political instability,
there were several socio-economic reforms in the country. Some of the socio-
economic achievements in Nepal during this period are given below.
Social Achievements:
There was good progress in the field of education in the decade from 2007 BS to
2017 BS. Many schools were established throughout the country. Some schools
and colleges started teaching in English medium. The literacy rate was 2 %
only before democracy. It increased as common people got the opportunity to
go to schools and colleges. Tribhuvan University was established in 2016 BS.
There was good progress in transportation. Construction of highways began.
Hetauda – Kathmandu ropeway was extended. Domestic and international
aviation were started.
Establishment of Radio Nepal on 20th Chaitra, 2007 BS, the commencement
of telephone and telegram services and achievement of the membership of
Universal Postal Union on 26th Aswin, 2013 BS made significant progress in
the field of communication.
The system of the rule of law was introduced in the country. All the forests in
the country were nationalised. Civil Service Act of 2013 was implemented. The
election of Kathmandu Municipality was held. An independent and impartial
judicial system was introduced, and the Supreme Court was established.
Nepal Cultural Council was formed in order to promote culture of Nepal.
The international relationship of Nepal developed with the establishment of a
friendly relationship with many countries of the world. Nepal got membership
of the United Nations Organisation (UNO) in 2012 BS. The Koshi and the
Gandak Agreements were signed with India on 12th Baishak 2011 BS, and 19th
Mangsir, 2016 BS respectively.
Economic Achievements
A trend of presenting and publishing the annual budget started in Nepal from
Shrawan, 2008 BS.
Modernisation in agriculture and trade expansion began in the country.
A declaration regarding the land with the system of tenant’s rights was issued
on 17th Bhadra, 2013 BS.
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Uniformity in the use of money was brought, and a new tax system was
implemented.
A periodic plan with five years’ duration was declared on 22nd Aswin, 2012 BS.
Then, the planned development started with the implementation of the first
five years plan in 2013 BS.
Nepal Rastra Bank was established on 14 Baisakh, 2013 BS.
Birta Abolition Act was enforced in Poush, 2016 BS.
Activities
(1) Read the following glimpse of the royal proclamation, and answer the questions
given below it through discussion in the class.
A glimpse of Royal Proclamation on 1st Poush, 2017 BS
The leaders misused the authority given to them. Corruption and anarchy are increased.
Misery, sorrow and obstacles of the people remained unchanged. Not only peace of the
country has been disturbed; there is a threat of having a negative impact on the national
unity and sovereignty of Nepal. Political parties involved in individual’s and party’s interest
ignoring the public interest. The international relation has deteriorated. In order to protect
national unity, create peace and cooperation and save the whole nation, we are compelled
to act according to Article 55 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal 2015. We hereby
suspend the cabinet, both houses of the parliament and the party system. We will also take
sole responsibility laid down in article 55 until a new system is put in place. With good wishes
and support from all Nepalese, good governance will prove to be possible.
(a) What sign of introducing the Panchayat system was given in the proclamation?
(b) Make a list of blames charged to the political parties and government in the
proclamation.
(c) Why should the political parties not get involved in the individuas and party's
interest?
(2) Discuss the following provisions given in article 55 of the Constitution of the
Kingdom of Nepal, 2015 and answer the questions given below it.
Constitution of Kingdom of Nepal 2015
Article 55 Emergency Power: If His Majesty in his discretion is satisfied that a grave
emergency exists whereby the security or economic life of Nepal or any part thereof is
threatened by war or external aggression or by internal disturbance. He may by proclamation
in His discretion:
(a) Declare that His Majesty's functions shall, to such extent as may be specified in the
proclamation, be exercised by him or his discretion.
(b) Assume to himself all or any of the powers vested in or exercisable by Parliament or
any other governmental body or authority, and any such proclamation may contain such
incidental and consequential provisions as may appear to him to be necessary or desirable
for giving effect to the objects of the proclamation including provisions for suspending
the whole or in part of the operation of any provisions of this constitution.
(a) Evaluate the provision in article 55 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of
Nepal 2015 in your own words.
(b) What type of constitution would be better to be prepared and implemented
for the protection of democracy that was obtained at the cost of people's
sacrifice? Elaborate in your words in points.
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Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Who was the first elected Prime Minister of Nepal?
(b) Which article did the King use to dissolve the elected government in 2017
BS?
(c) When did the party-less Panchayat System begin in Nepal?
(d) Why was King Mahendra not in favour of the democratic government?
(e) What was the most remarkable achievement in the field of education in the
decade 2007-2017 BS?
(f) List out any two achievements in the field of communication during 2007 -
2017 BS?
(g) What is the main importance of the periodical plan? Write your opinion in
one or two sentences.
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Write about 'Royal Coup 2017' and Black Day in the history of Nepal.
(b) How would you react to the prohibition of the political party in 2017 BS if
you were a Nepali citizen of that period?
(c) “King Mahendra was an ambitious person.” Justify the statement in your
own words.
(d) Why was the pace of the development slow in the decade from 2007 to
2017 BS?
(e) Write any four socio-economic achievements in the decade 2007 BS 2017
BS with a positive impact of each of them in Nepali society.
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Prepare a dialogue between two friends on socio-economic achievements in
the decade from 2007 to 2017 BS.
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Lesson Political Events from
2017 to 2046 BS
7.4
Engage Yourself
Do you like any ruling system with murders and assassination? What do you feel when
you hear that there were many incidents of murdering and assassination during the
Panchayat rule? The Panchayat system was an autocratic rule. The rights of people were
seized. No one could speak against the Panchayat rule though it did not work for the
welfare of the people.
(1) What were major political events in Nepal during the party-less Panchayat rule?
(2) What were the main incidents of murders and assassination that happened during
the Panchayat rule?
(3) What inspiration do you get from the people who sacrificed their life for the nation?
(4) Why did people revolt against the Panchayat System?
The period from 2017 BS to 2046 BS is the period of Panchayat autocracy in
the history of Nepal. King Mahendra introduced a party-less Panchayat system
dissolving the multiparty democracy in 2017 BS. He formed the Panchayat Ministry,
Panchayat Direction Department, and Panchayat Development Department to
strengthen this system. He also divided Nepal into 14 zones and 75 districts on 1st
Baisakh, 2018 BS. The constitution of Nepal 2019 was promulgated on 1st Poush,
2019 BS. This constitution was amended three times on 14th Magh, 2023 BS, 26th
Mangsir, 2032 BS, and on 1st Poush, 2037 BS for effective administration. However,
the Panchayat system could not win the heart of people, so that it came to an end
through the Mass Revolution 2046 BS.
Major Political Events During Panchayat Regime
(1) Janakpur Bomb Incident: After completing his royal
visit to Eastern Nepal, King Mahendra was proceeding
towards Rangabhumi after worshipping in Janaki
Temple in Janakpur on 9th Magh, 2018 BS. A group
of anti-Panchayat youths under the leadership of
Durgananda Jha hurled a bomb at King Mahendra's
jeep. The King had a narrow escape from there. This
incident is known as the Janakpur Bomb Incident. The
youths like Arbinda Kumar Thakur, Dalsing Thapa,
and Durgananda Jha were arrested in this incident. Durgananda Jha
Among them, Durgananda Jha was sentenced to death
punishment on 25th Magh, 2020 BS, whereas the other
two were sentenced to life imprisonment.
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(2) Jhapa Revolt and Sukhani Assassination: Some youths of Jhapa district
who were the members of Nepal Communist Party (Marxist and Leninist)
revolted against the Panchayat government. This is known as Jhapa Revolt.
This revolution was for the freedom of the poor and against feudal lords in
Jhapa. Some young communist revolutionists like Ramnath Dahal, Narayan
Shrestha, Krishna Kuinkel, Netra Prasad Ghimire, and Biren Rajbansi were
arrested. They were accused of the murder of Dharma Prasad Upadhyay, a
member of the National Panchayat. They were taken to the jungle at Sukhani,
a bordering area between Jhapa and Ilam, and shot dead on 21st Jestha, 2030
BS. This incident is called the Sukhani incident.
(3) Plane Hijack and Singha Durbar Blaze: An aeroplane of the Royal Nepal
Airlines flying to Kathmandu from Biratnagar was hijacked on 25th Jestha,
2030 BS. The hijackers were Basant Bhattarai, Durga Subedi and Nagendra
Prasad Dhungel. They were members of the Nepali Congress. The main
designer of the plane hijack was Girija Prasad Koirala. The hijackers forced
the pilot to land the plane at Forbesganj, Bihar. They looted Rs 30 lakh IC
and released the plane. This anti-Panchayat activity had an adverse effect
on Panchayat rulers. Similarly, Singha Durbar caught fire on 25th Asar, 2030
BS. Many important documents were burnt into ashes. It was a mysterious
incident. Kritinidhi Bista resigned from the post of Prime Minister after this
incident.
(4) Timburbote Incident: The trend of organising the youths rally was rapidly
increasing. The main objective of organising the youths rally was to end the
party-less Panchayat system and restore the multiparty system. In the course
of this, they made a secret plan to capture Okhaldhunga in 2031 BS. According
to their plan, some youths established a camp at the cave of Timburbote, but
their undercover activities were revealed. Then, the Panchayat government
sent army to suppress them. The army attacked the Timburbote camp and
killed many youths, including Ram Laxman. They also arrested Captain
Yagya Bahadur Thapa from Okhaldhunga and Bhim Narayan Shrestha from
Biratnagar and shot them in 2033 BS. This incident is popularly known as the
Timburbote incident.
(5) The Assassination of Ratna Kumar Bantawa: The series of assassinating
of the people was continued during the Panchayat system. Ratna Kumar
Bantawa Rai was an active communist leader. He was shot dead on the bank of
the Deaumai river of Ilam on 27th Chaitra, 2035 BS. Rishiraj Devkota(Azaad)
and Jay Govinda Shah also got martyrdom in Panchayat System.
(6) National Referendum 2037: A referendum is a kind of election to seek a
public opinion regarding any important issues. The adult citizens are asked to
choose any one of the two alternatives in any national issue in the referendum.
The referendum is a rare type of election that generally takes place in a
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transitional political situation in any country. The referendum had been
conducted only in 2037 BS in the history of Nepal. The following event led to
the conduction of National Referendum 2037 BS.
The military government of Pakistan executed
the former Pakistani Prime Minister, Zulfikar Ali
Bhutto on 22nd Chaitra, 2035 BS (4th April, 1970
AD). Nepali students organised a huge procession
in protest of the execution. They tried to deliver the
letter of condemnation to the Embassy of Pakistan
in Kathmandu. The police resorted to violence and
stopped them. Many students were injured due to a
lathi-charge by the police. This incident turned into a Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
student movement. This movement was supported by
people and spread as a mass movement throughout the country. Because of
this, King Birendra announced the referendum to choose either the reformed
Panchayat system or Multiparty democracy on 10th Jestha, 2036 BS. Then,
the referendum was held on 20th Baisakh, 2037 BS. About 48 lakhs people
cast votes. Out of which, about 55% voted in favour of the reformed Panchayat
system, and 45% voted in favour of multiparty democracy. Thus, the reformed
Panchayat system won the election with 10% more votes. After the referendum,
the election for the National Panchayat was held in 2038 BS.
(7) Piskar Assassination: There was a cultural programme organised to make
people aware against Panchayat System on 1st Magh, 2040 BS at Piskar
Mahadev in Sindhupalchowk. The police surrounded the site of cultural
programme and opened random firing. Some adult and many innocent children
were killed. Many people were arrested and tortured. This incident is called
Piskar Assassination. Surya Bahadur Thapa, who had become Prime Minister
after the election of National Panchayat in 2038 BS, was removed through a
vote of no confidence in Rastriya Panchayat after this incident. Then, Lokendra
Bahadur Chand became the Prime Minister.
(8) Satyagraha Movement and Bombings: Nepali
Congress launched a civil disobedience movement
(Satyagraha) throughout the country from 10th Jestha,
2042 BS. It is a nonviolent movement launched against
the Panchayat system. When this movement was
continued peacefully, Janabadi Morcha, a political
party led by Ramraja Prasad Singh, exploded bombs
in various cities of Nepal, including the Royal Palace
of Kathmandu on 6th Asar, 2042 BS. The bombs were
blasted to demand for the republican system in Nepal. Ramraja Prasad Singh
The Panchayat government passed a new law and
passed a sentence of the death penalty to the leaders of the Janabadi Morcha
like Ramraja Prasad Singh, Laxman Prasad Singh, and Khem Raj Bhatta.
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This incident created an obstacle to the Satyagraha Movement. Then, the
Nepali Congress had to withdraw the Satyagraha Movement.
(9) People’s Movement - 2046 BS: The people’s Ganesh Man Singh
movement was launched in 2046 BS to remove the
Panchayat System and restore Multiparty Democracy.
It is popularly known as Mass movement 2046 BS. It is
also called Mass Movement-I nowadays. The duration
of the movement was 49 days from 7th Falgun to 26th
Chaitra, 2046 BS. The supreme leader Ganesh Man
Singh Shrestha commanded this movement.
Causes of Mass Movement 2046 BS
Failure of the Panchayat system to bring reforms in the country even after the
referendum.
Increase in corruption, smuggling, and other unsocial activities in the country.
Undemocratic nature of the Panchayat system.
Deprivation of fundamental and human rights.
Ban on the political parties.
Main Events of Mass Movement, 2046 BS
There was a national conference of the Nepali Congress from 5th to 7th Magh, 2046
BS at the resident of Ganesh Man Singh Shrestha. Leaders of the United Left Front
(Allied Communist Parties) and Indian political leaders like Chandra Shekhar, Dr
Subramanian Swami and Harikishan Singh Surjit participated in the conference.
This conference decided to launch a Mass Movement from 7th Falgun, 2046 BS
under the leadership of Supreme leader Ganesh Man Singh Shrestha.
The people's demonstrations were organised at different places in the country.
Students, lawyers, doctors, professors, business people, teachers, and government
employees participated in the demonstration. There were clashes between
agitators and the police in many places. Many leaders and activists were arrested.
The government tried to suppress the agitations. Media supported by publishing
news in favour of the movement. Programmes, slogans, processions, blackout, pen
down etc. were organised throughout the country. Many people were shot dead
due to lathi charge and random firing. King Birendra dissolved the cabinet of
Marich Man Singh and appointed Lokendra Bahadur Chand as the Prime Minister
on 24th Chaitra, 2046 BS. On this occasion, he made an announcement with the
intention of continuing the Panchayat system by improving it. This added fuel to
the fire of movement. The movement continued in full swing. Thousands of people
gathered in Kathmandu and protested the King's announcement of reforming the
Panchayat system. Curfews were imposed, but people disobeyed them, the orders
were ineffective.
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Finally, the King could not get any way to control the revolution. Then, he invited
the leaders of the movement like Ganesh Man Singh, Krishna Prasad Bhattarai,
Girija Prasad Koirala, Man Mohan Adhikari, Sahana Pradhan and Radha Krishna
Mainali for negotiation on 26th Chaitra, 2046 BS. After a long talk, they reached
an agreement to lift the ban on political parties. On the same day, King Birendra
declared the lift on the ban of political parties from the constitution of Nepal 2019
and the end of the Panchayat system through Radio Nepal and Nepal Television
at 11:45 pm. The political leaders also declared the end of the Mass Movement. In
this way, by virtue of the 49-days mass movement, the Panchayat system came to
an end, and multiparty democracy was restored in the country.
Consequences of Mass Movement-2046
The autocratic Panchayat system came to an end, and the Multiparty
democracy was restored.
An interim government was formed under the premiership of Krishna Prasad
Bhattarai to draft a new democratic constitution and conduct a general election
for forming a government of people’s representatives.
Democratic constitution, the Constitution of Kingdom of Nepal, 2047 was
promulgated. People got their rights as fundamental rights.
The absolute monarch turned into a constitutional monarch.
The general election was held, and the new democratic government of people's
representatives was formed.
Additional Reading Materials
Achievement of Nepal During the Panchayat Rule
Nepal could make several achievements during the thirty years long party-less
Panchayat rule. Some of them are given below.
Administrative Achievements
Nepal was divided into 5 development regions 14 zones, and 75 districts for
effective administrations.
Public Service Commission was established for selecting meritorious candidates
required by Government of Nepal for various vacant posts of the civil service.
In order to implement the same education system throughout the country, the
National Education System, 2028 was implemented.
Economic Achievements
The periodic plan with duration of five years was continued for planned
development.
Many highways and roadways were constructed in different places in the
country.
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Development of agriculture and industry had been continued.
National and international aviation was started.
Export based trade and commerce had been increased.
Land Reform Act, 2021 was implemented that brought many positive changes
in land use.
Social Achievements
New Muluki Ain (New Civil Code) was implemented that ended all kinds of
discrimination in society legally. It also discouraged child and unmatched
marriage and encouraged widow and court marriages.
Various social reforms acts were prepared and implemented.
Various social organisations were established to end various social problems
and evils.
Activities
(1) Prepare a chronological chart of major events that took place during the
Panchayat rule with dates and display in the class.
Chronology
• 9th Magh, 2018 BS : Durgananda Jha hurled a bomb on King
Mahendra's jeep at Janakpur
•
•
• 26th Chaitra, 2046 BS: Panchayat rule came to an end, and multiparty
democracy was introduced with the announcement of Kting Birendra.
(2) Why did a series of murders take place from the beginning of Panchayat rule?
Discuss in the class and note down the reasons.
Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When did the Janakpur bomb incident take place? Write the full date in BS.
(b) In which district did the Timburbote incident take place? Name the leaders
arrested after this incident.
(c) Why do political activists remember Ratna Kumar Bantawa even today?
Write in a sentence.
(d) What were the options in the only referendum in the history of Nepal?
(e) Write the role of Ramraja Prasad Singh in Nepali politics in a single sentence.
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(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Which incidents are popular as the Jhapa revolt and Sukhani assassination?
Write about them in brief.
(b) What impacts did the incidents of plane hijack and Singha Durbar Blaze
have on Nepali politics?
(c) Write about Timburbote and Piskar incidents.
(d) Write differences between the general election and referendum.
(e) Prepare a pie chart to show the following result of the referendum
Total votes
Reformed Panchayat System 24,33,452
Multiparty democratic system 20,07,965
Invalid Votes 3,72,069
Total 48,13,486
(f) Prepare a timeline mentioning the major events that took place during the
Panchayat rule.
(g) What is the Satyagraha movement? Is it good to organise such type of
movement during any kind of revolution?
(h) Why did Nepali people revolt against the Panchayat system since its
beginning? Explain your answer with reasons.
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Explain the roles of the Panchayat government, political parties and general
people during the referendum.
(b) Prepare a conversation between two friends discussing on the major political
events from 2037 BS to 2046 BS.
Community Work
Meet any ten senior citizens of your community, and ask them about major
events of Mass Movement 2046 BS. Then, prepare a short report based on
your study and show it to your teacher.
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Lesson Causes of Rise and Downfall
of the Panchayat System
7.5
Engage Yourself
How does a political system rise? What may be the reasons for its downfall? Panchayat
system came into existence in 2017 BS. It ended in 2046 BS Some events, such as
political instability with frequent change of government, failure to conduct the election
of constituent assembly due to party politics etc. had paved the way to rise Panchayat
System. Similarly, some incidents, such as the students' movement 2036, Mass
Revolution-I, etc. caused the downfall of Panchayat System.
(1) What are the causes of the rise of the Panchayat System?
(2) Which incidents led to the downfall of the Panchayat System?
A political system, whichever it is, does not emerge overnight. Several factors lead
to its emergence. Different factors led to the rise of the Panchayat system. However,
it was a system with several draw backs. Such weaknesses caused its downfall.
Panchayat system was a party- less autocratic ruling system that prevailed in
Nepal from 2017 to 2046 BS. King Mahendra introduced this system on 22nd Poush,
2017 BS. King Mahendra was highly ambitious to become a powerful ruler of Nepal.
He made several attempts to seize democracy and establish his direct rule. He
became successful in dismissing the elected government, suspending parliament
and banning political parties through a royal coup in 2017 BS. The establishment
of the Panchayat Direction Department and Panchayat Development Department
and the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal, 2019 and its amendments
strengthened the Panchayat system. The main causes of its rise and downfall are
as given below.
Lack of Visionary Awareness in
Leaders and Political people
Awareness among the
Failure to Autocratic Increase in
implement Delhi people and Supreme corruption
Agreement Rule
Political Ambitious Centralised Unity among
Instability Nature of King Unitary Political
System Parties
Mahendra
Causes of the
Rise of the
Panchayat System
The causes
for downfall of
Panchayat System
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Causes of Rise of the Panchayat System
(1) Political Instability
Nepal experienced extreme political instability during the democratic period
from 2007 BS onward. Many governments were formed and dissolved one after
another due to conflicts among the political parties. This paved the way for the
rise of the absolute monarchy and the establishment of the party-less Panchayat
system.
(2) Failure to Implement Delhi Agreement
Drafting a new democratic constitution by elected Constituent Assembly
within two years was one of the main points of the Delhi agreement. This was not
implemented as the rulers focused more on their power and positions than the
people's welfare. Political parties remained immature in this regard as they had
less experience. As a result, King Mahendra came into power and established the
Panchayat system.
(3) Lack of Political Awareness Among the People
People were not given any rights during the Rana rule. They did not get
education and other opportunities. They were ignorant of their rights and duties
and lacked political consciousness. Similarly, the parliamentary system was new
in the country. The leaders were not experienced in this system. People and leaders
were not able to tackle new obstacles. Therefore, they lost their achievement, and
again autocratic rule started in Nepal.
(4) Ambitious Nature of King Mahendra
After King Tribhuvan, King Mahendra ascended on the throne. King Mahendra
did not have good faith in democracy since he was the crown prince. He had a keen
interest to take all state power and start autocracy. He always tried to find the
opportunity to seize democracy and establish his direct rule. He gained the power
of ruling, forming a royal advisory government in 2012 and direct rule in 2014 BS.
This paved the way for establishing autocratic Panchayat rule.
Causes of Downfall of Panchayat System
The Panchayat system was an autocratic ruling system. The rights of the people
were seized, and the political parties were banned during Panchayat rule. It
was very difficult to organise the people and make them aware of the Panchayat
system. The people who talked against the Panchayat system were arrested and
shot dead. However, the political parties got united against the Panchayat system.
General people supported the political parties in the campaign to overthrow the
Panchayat system. Finally, the party-less Panchayat system came to an end, and
the multiparty democracy was restored. The following reasons can be cited as the
main causes for the downfall of this system.
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(1) Centralised Unitary System
Panchayat system had a unitary form of government. This was an autocratic
system. All the power of government was centralised to the central government.
The local level authority had to follow orders from the higher authority of the centre.
This made it difficult for the local authority to work. Therefore, the local authority
supported the political parties and the people who were against the Panchayat
System. Finally, this ended the Panchayat System.
(2) Autocratic and Supreme Rule
The worst aspect of the Panchayat system was autocracy. Freedom,
fundamental rights, and human rights of the people were seized. People were not
allowed to speak against the government and King. Those who dared to speak
were brutally treated. This compelled the people to unitedly raise voice against the
government. Thus, they ended the Panchayat System.
(3) Awareness in People
The condition of literacy and awareness was increasing in the people. The
educated people were dissatisfied with the Panchayat government. Therefore, they
tried to make other people aware against the Panchayat System.
(4) Increase in Corruption
The administrators in the Panchayat system were dishonest and corrupt. The
high post and major responsibility in the administration were given to those who
were in favour of King. They misused the power in the country's administration.
There was no rule of law and good governance. This increased corruption in the
country. This finally led people to talk against the Panchayat system. Then, the
Panchayat system came to an end.
(5) Unity Among Political Parties
As the Panchayat System was not in favour of Mass movement I (2046)
the people and political parties, the political parties
were united and talked against the Panchayat
System. Seven communist parties formed the
Communist Alliance called United Left Front. Nepali
Congress and United Left Front agreed to launch
the mass movement against the Panchayat system.
They unitedly led the mass Movement-I to restore
multiparty democracy in 2046 BS. Finally, King
Birendra announced the restoration of democracy and
the end of the party-less Panchayat system through a
royal proclamation on 26th Chaitra,2046 BS.
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Activities
(1) Complete the following table with causes of the rise and downfall of the
Panchayat system.
Causes of the rise of the Panchayat system Causes of the downfall of the Panchayat system
1. 1.
2. 2.
3. 3.
4. 4.
(2) Consult history books, internet, or oral sources and find out the positive changes
in Nepal's socio-economic fields during the Panchayat rule. Then, share them
with your friends in the class.
Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When did the Panchayat rule begin?
(b) Who were the Kings of Nepal when the Panchayat System started and came
to an end?
(c) What do you mean by political instability?
(d) Which point of the Delhi agreement was implemented during the democratic
decade of 2007 to 2017 BS?
(e) Why did people believe the King more than the political leaders?
(f) How did the royal advisory government in 2012 BS and King Mahendra's
direct rule in 2014 BS support to establish Panchayat System?
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) What is the Panchayat system? Why is it a party-less autocratic ruling system?
(b) “Conflict among the political parties encouraged King Mahendra to
become powerful in 2017 BS.” Explain the statement in your own words.
(c) Write differences between Panchayat system and the Multiparty democratic
system.
(d) The Panchayat system, which was established blaming the political parties,
could not last long. Why?
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Write a letter to your friend mentioning the causes of the rise and downfall
of the Panchayat system.
(b) Achievements made by the people in 2007 BS at the cost of their sacrifice,
blood and sweat by removing the Rana rule suffered from various crises and
became weak time and again. Try to find its causes and suggest any four
ways to protect and strengthen such democratic rights and achievement in
the days to come.
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Lesson Political Events From
2046 BS to 2062 B.S.
7.6
Engage Yourself
How do you feel when you rediscover a valuable belonging after a long time? Similar
was the case for Nepalese people when party-less Panchayat system was overthrown and
democracy was restored. What is the essence of freedom in one’s life? After a long effort,
the Nepalese were able to restore democracy in 2046 BS. A number of important political
events took place in between 2046 BS to 2062 BS.
(1) What were major political events that took place from 2046 BS to 2063 BS in history
of Nepal?
(2) What are the objectives, achievements and durations of the Mass movement-II?
(3) What ar the differences between the Mass movement-I and Mass movement-II?
The period from 2046 to 2062 BS is a democratic period with constitutional monarchy.
It is the period between Mass Movement I and II. This period experienced various
ups and downs. The early phase of this period was relatively stable. However, the
last phase of this period remained full of political instability, revolutions, terror,
and conflict. The major political events of this period are discussed here.
(1) Establishment of Multiparty Democracy: The mass Krishna Prasad Bhattarai
Movement-I successfully ended the party-less Panchayat
system and restored multiparty democracy on 26th Chaitra,
2046 BS. All the Panchayat related mechanisms were dissolved
on 3rd Baisakh, 2047 BS. Then, the interim government under
the premiership of Krishna Prasad Bhattarai was formed
on 6th Baisakh, 2047 BS. This government was given two
responsibilities as given below.
To prepare a democratic constitution.
To conduct the election of parliament.
(2) Promulgation of New Constitution: The interim
government had primary responsibility of preparing a new
democratic constitution. Therefore, government formed a
constitution reform and recommendation commission of nine
members under the chairpersonship of the Chief Justice of
Supreme Court, Bishwonath Upadhyaya, on 16th Jestha,
2047 BS. This commission submitted a draft of the new Bishwonath Upadhaya
constitution to King Birendra on 25th Bhadra, 2047 BS. Then,
King Birendra promulgated the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal 2047 on
23rd Kartik, 2047 BS. This had the provisions of the parliamentary ruling system,
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constitutional monarchy, adult franchise, multiparty democracy, an independent
judiciary, fundamental rights, and sovereignty inherent in the hands of people.
(3) General Elections and Mid- Term Election: As per
the second responsibility of the interim government and the
provision in the Constitution of Kingdom of Nepal, 2047, the
general election was held on 29th Baisakh, 2048 BS. After
this election, the parliament could not complete its tenure as
the then Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala dissolved it.
The mid-term election was held on 29th Kartik, 2051 BS. No
party was able to get the majority in this election. Communist
Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist- Leninist) got more seats in Girija Prasad Koirala
the parliament and appeared as the largest party. Similarly,
another general election of the parliament was held on 20th Baisakh and 3rd Jestha,
2056 BS. Nepali Congress got majority votes in the election and KP Bhattarai
became the Prime Minister.
(4) Series of Governments: The first phase of the
democratic period with constitutional monarchy was quite
stable. But there was an unstable government in the later
phase of this period. There was a series of governments that
were formed and dissolved one after another. The interim
government under Krishna Prasad Bhattarai was dissolved
after the general election paved the way for the elected
government. The elected government under the premiership Manmohan Adhikari
Girija Prasad Koirala was formed on 13th Jestha, 2048 BS
as the Nepali Congress got majority seats in the House of Representatives. This
government could not complete its tenure due to internal conflict within the Nepali
Congress.
The minority government of UML was formed under the premiership of Manmohan
Adhikari on 13th Mangsir, 2051 BS as his party won the largest seats in the mid-
term election. This government was dissolved after nine months as a vote of no
confidence was passed in the parliament on 25th Bhadra, 2052 BS. The coalition
government of the Nepali Congress, the Rashtriya Prajatantra Party and the
Sadbhawana Party, was formed under the premiership of Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Then, Lokendra Bahadur Chand (2 times), Surya Bahadur Thapa (2 times), Krishna
Prasad Bhattarai (second time in 2056 BS) Sher Bahadur Deuba (again two times)
and Girija Prasad Koirala (again three times) became Prime Ministers of Nepal.
In the course of change in government, Kritinidhi Bista and Tulsi Giri had also
led the cabinet as vice-chairpersons. Thus, Nepal experienced many governments,
along with King's direct rule during this period.
(5) Maoist Armed Revolution: Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) opposed
the constitutional monarchy. On 1st Falgun. 2052 BS, the Maoist launched an
underground armed revolution from Rolpa with the demand for the end of monarchy.
This revolution spread throughout the country. They formed the People's Liberation
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Army (Jana Muktisena), and attacked police stations and army barracks. They also
destroyed public properties. This led to widespread war, violence, and terror. The
peace and order in the country were disturbed. This revolution turned into Mass
Movement -II after the Maoists signed 12 points agreement with Seven Parties
Alliance (SPA).
(6) Narayanhity Massacre: King Birendra was a liberal King. He had been ruling
Nepal since 2028 BS. Various political incidents such as the students' revolution,
the Satyagraha movement and Mass Revolution-I took place with the demand for
multiparty democracy. There was a Maoist insurgency even after democracy was
restored. If he had been a cruel King, he would have used the national army to
bring the situation under control. In the course of his rule, there was a bloody
incident in Narayanhity palace on 19th Jestha, 2058 BS. King Birendra and his
family members were messacred in the event. This is known as the Narayanhity
Massacre in the history of Nepal.
(7) King Gyanendra's Royal Takeover: After the Narayanhity Massacre,
Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah, brother to King Birendra, became the King of Nepal.
He became over ambitious and tried to seize all state power in his hands. He
dismissed the elected Prime Minister, Sher Bahadur Deuba, on 18th Asoj, 2059
blaming him as an incompetent and unable Prime Minister. Then, he appointed
Lokendra Bahadur Chand and Surya Bahadur Thapa as Prime Minister one after
another. This undemocratic act of King was criticised widely in the nation. He again
appointed Sher Bahadur Deuba as the Prime Minister of Nepal under the extreme
pressure of people. But he detained all political parties, including Prime Minister
Sher Bahadur Deuba, on 19th Magh, 2061 BS as per article 127 of the constitution.
He also formed the government under his own chairpersonship. All political parties
and CPN (Maoist) criticised and opposed this act of King Gyanendra.
Article 127, Power to Remove Difficulties: If any difficulty arises in connection with the
implementation of this Constitution, His Majesty may issue necessary Orders to remove such
difficulty, and such Orders shall be laid before parliament.
Mass Movement, 2062/2063 BS
King Gyanendra's step on 19th Magh was strongly protested by political parties,
political leaders, common people as well as international communities. Taking this
situation as an advantage, the seven parties' alliance (SPA) and CPN (Maoist) had
a twelve-point agreement on 7th Mangsir, 2062 BS in Delhi. They agreed to launch
a mass movement against the government.
The political parties in the Seven Parties Alliance (SPA) are Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), Nepali
Congress (Democratic) Janamorcha Nepal, Nepal Majdoor Kishan Party, Nepal Sadvawana Party
(Ananda Devi), and United left Front.
As per the agreement, they launched a mass movement on 24th Chaitra, 2062 BS.
This movement influenced all sectors in the country. Many people came on the
street and shouted slogans against the government. The movement continued
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with protests, strikes, demonstration, processions and public disobedience. The
government tried to suppress the movement. The government could not stop the
movement. Finally, after the movement of 19 days, King made a proclamation on
11th Baisakh, 2063 BS and declared that the sovereignty and the royal power are
given back to the people.
Activities
(1) Prepare a chronological chart of major events that took place from 2046 BS to
2063 BS with dates and display in the class. Example:
• 26th Chaitra, 2046 BS: Multiparty democracy was restored after the success of the
people’s movement - I
•
•
• 11th Baisakh, 2063 BS: People's movement-II came to an end with a royal proclamation.
(2) Construct a timeline to show the major events from 2046 to 2063 BS.
Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Who was the first Prime Minister after the restoration of democracy?
(b) Write any two features of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2047.
(c) Who was the first communist Prime Minister of Nepal? When did he become
the Prime Minister?
(d) How many time did Sher Bahadur Deuba become the Prime Minister of
Nepal?
(e) Write a difference between armed revolution and mass revolution.
(f) How long did the People’s movement-II take place?
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) What do you mean by the interim government? Write about the composition
of interim government formed in 2046 BS with the major task entrusted to it.
(b) Make a list of any four strong aspects of the political changes 2046 -2062 BS.
(c) Write any two similarities and differences between people movement I
and II.
(d) What were the major causes of the people movement II?
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Compare Nepal's political, social and economic condition between 2007 to
2017 BS and 2046 to 2063 BS.
(b) Nepal has experienced four mass movements from 2007 BS to establish
and institutionalise democracy. Introduce them and write what we should do
to protect the achievements of these movements in three points.
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Lesson Political Events After
2063 BS
7.7
Engage Yourself
Have you ever settled the dispute between the friends? What techniques did you apply?
Nepalese people fought several times for democracy. They launched revolutions time and
again and got partial achievements. People involved in non-violent movement to armed
revolution. Finally, Nepalis got success to establish democracy, the rule of people. Many
people have been working to institutionalise democracy after 2063 BS.
(1) What are the major political events after 2063 BS to till this date?
(2) How did century-long Monarchial System come to an end in Nepal?
(3) What do you know about a decade long armed revolution and peace establishment?
(4) What you know about the political transition period?
(5) How do you explain the elections of constituent assemblies conducted in 2064 BS
and 2070 BS and their achievements to the general people in your community?
Many political events have taken place in different periods in Nepal. Many worth-
mentioning political events have taken place in Nepal after the people's movement
2063/63 till the date. Among them, some major events are discussed here.
Reinstatement of House of Representatives (HoR)
After 19 days in the mass movement, King Gyanendra Shah made a proclamation
on 11th Baisakh, 2063 BS. The dissolved parliament (House of Representatives)
was reinstated, and democracy was restored after this royal proclamation. The
reinstated House of Representatives had its first meeting on 15th Jestha, 2063 BS.
This meeting formed a new government under the premiership of Girija Prasad
Koirala.
Historical Declaration of Reinstated House of Representatives
The reinstated House of Representatives had a Meeting of House of Representatives
meeting on 4th Jestha, 2063 BS. This meeting (4th Jestha, 2063 B.S.)
declared the House of Representatives a powerful
body as the legislature of Nepal. This meeting Unit Seven:
made a historic declaration. Some major points of Study of History
declaration as listed below.
The House of Representatives shall exercise
the legislative power of the country.
The executive power of the country shall remain
on the Council of Ministers.
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The income and property of the royal family are taxable.
His Majesty’s Government shall be changed into Nepal Government.
Royal Nepal Army shall be changed into Nepal Army.
The King shall become no more the supreme commander of the army.
Nepal shall be a secular country.
This declaration brought a significant change in Nepali politics. The King’s power
had been limited. People were vested with all-state power.
Comprehensive Peace Accord
The House of Representatives made unanimous decisions on various issues in the
country. Some of such decisions are:
To hold the election of Constituent Assembly to draft a new constitution.
To negotiate with Maoist to establish peace.
To prepare an interim constitution as a document of political consensus.
As per the decision of the House of Representatives , the 8 points agreements were
made between Seven Political Parties Alliance and Maoist on 2nd Asar, 2063 BS.
Then, the comprehensive peace agreement was signed on 5th Mangsir, 2063 BS.
Girija Prasad Koirala, on behalf of the then government, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal
(Prachanda), on behalf of the Maoist, had signed
the agreement. This agreement declared the end
of 10 years long armed revolution launched by
Maoist from 2052 BS. This also paved the way for
permanent peace in the country by bringing the
Maoist into the mainstream of politics. The Interim
Constitution of Nepal 2063 was also promulgated
on 1st Magh, 2063 BS. It is a document of political
consensus prepared with the consent of Maoist Comprehensive peace agreement
and Seven Political Parties.
Election of Constituent Assembly-I
As per the decision of the reinstated House of Representatives, the election of
Constituent Assembly-I was held on 28th Chaitra, 2064 BS. In this election, 240
members were elected through the First Past the Post electoral system, 335 were
elected through the proportional electoral system, and the government nominated
the remaining 26 members. Among 601 members, the CPN Maoist won 229 seats,
and stood as the largest party.
Declaration of Republican System in Nepal
The first meeting of Constituent Assembly-I was held on 15th Jestha, 2065 BS.
This meeting declared Nepal as a republic Country. This ended the centuries-long
monarchical system in Nepal. King Gyanendra made a public address and left the
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throne. The Constituent Assembly, which also worked as legislative parliament,
elected Dr Ram Baran Yadav as the first President of Nepal. Similarly, Pushpa
Kamal Dahal, the leader of the largest party (CPN, Maoist) in the Constituent
Assembly, became the Prime Minister on 31st Shrawan, 2065 BS. The Prime
Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, had to resign in about nine months due to the
clash with the President in the issue of the dismissal of the Chief of the Army,
Rukmanga Katuwal, from the post. After Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Madhav Kumar
Nepal (11th Jestha, 2066 BS), Jhalanath Khanal (23rd Magh, 2067 BS), and Dr
Baburam Bhattarai (12th Bhadra, 2068 BS) became the Prime Ministers of Nepal
in the tenure of the Constituent Assembly -I. The first Constituent Assembly
was dissolved on 14th Jestha, 2069 BS without completing its work to draft the
constitution.
Election of Constituent Assembly-II
The collapse of the first Constituent Assembly created a void situation in the country.
The four years-long effort of political parties could not be effective to formulate
the constitution. There was a conflict among the political parties regarding the
continuation of then Prime Minister Babu Ram Bhattarai in his post. The opposition
parties were demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister. The Maoist was
urging resignation would create more problems to form a new government. Finally,
the political parties agreed to form a non-party election government under the
chairpersonship of Chief Justice Khil Raj Regmi. Then, the Chief Justice, Khil Raj
Regmi, was appointed as the chairperson of the election government on 1st Chaitra,
2069. This government became successful in holding the election of Constituent
Assembly-II on 4th Mangsir, 2070 BS. Nepali Congress got more seats in this
election. Then, Sushil Koirala, the leader of the largest parliamentary party, was
elected as the Prime Minister of Nepal on 27th Magh, 2070 BS.
Promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal (2072)
After the election of the Constituent Assembly -II, political parties made many
serious dialogues among themselves and agreed to draft the new constitution.
The devastating earthquakes hit Nepal on 12th and 29th of Baisakh, 2072 BS.
Many aftershocks followed them. This caused the loss of lives and properties in
14 districts of Nepal. This incident made all parties more serious and united,
forgetting their self-contradiction. This created the situation of realisation of the
need for unity among the political parties for the formulation of a new constitution
and nation-building. Then, the process of drafting the constitution sped up.
Finally, the Constitution of Nepal was promulgated on 3rd Ashoj, 2072 BS by the
then President, Ram Baran Yadav. With the promulgation of the constitution of
Nepal, the dream of Nepali people set before 2007 BS got fulfilled. Nepali people
wanted to write the constitution through the constituent assembly formed with
people's representatives made before 2007 BS. This dream got materialised with
the promulgation of the constitution. Then, a coalition government under the
premiership of Khadga Prasad Oli (KP Oli) was formed on 24th Ashwin, 2072 BS.
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According to the provision given in the constitution, the Constituent Assembly
was converted into legislative parliament. The election of the President and Vice-
president was held. Bidhya Devi Bhandari was elected as the President of Nepal on
11th Kartik, 2072 BS. Similarly, Nanda Bahadur Pun was elected as Vice-president
of Nepal on 14th Kartik, 2072 BS. The Prime Minister, KP Oli, resigned, and Pushpa
Kamal Dahal became the Prime Minister on 19th Shrawan, 2073 BS.
Local, Provincial and Federal Elections
The Constitution of Nepal had an ultimatum for conducting the election of three
levels of government (local, provincial and federal) within 7th Magh, 2074 BS.
Pushpa Kamal Dahal's government conducted the first phase of the local election
on 31st Baisakh, 2074 BS. Then, Sher Bahadur Deuba became the 40th Prime
Minister of Nepal on 23rd Jestha, 2074 BS. Then, the second and third phase of the
local election were held on 14th Ashad and 2nd Ashwin, 2074 BS.
Similarly, the provincial and federal level election were also held in two phases, i.e.
on 10th and 21st Mangsir, 2074 BS. The election was held in 35 districts of hills and
mountains in the first phase. The election in the remaining 42 districts was held
in the second phase. The election of the National Assembly was held on the 24th of
Magh, 2074 BS. After completion of all level election, KP Oli was appointed as 41st
Prime Minister of Nepal on 3rd Falgun, 2074 BS.
Then, Krishna Bahadur Mahara was elected as the Speaker of the newly formed
House of Representatives on 26th Falgun, 2074 BS. Bidhya Devi Bhandari was
elected as the President of Nepal for the second time on 29th Falgun, 2074 BS.
Ganesh Timilsina was elected as the Chairperson of the National Assembly on
30th Falgun, 2074 BS. Then, Vice-president Nanda Bahadur Pun was re-elected as
Nepal's new Vice-president on 4th Chaitra, 2074 BS.
Activities
(1) What are the impacts of the local, provincial and federal elections on Nepali
society? Discuss in class and note down the conclusions.
(2) Prepare a chronological chart of major events that took place after 2063 BS
with dates and display in the class. Example:
• 11th Baisakh, 2063 BS: The dissolved parliament (House of
Representatives) was reinstated, and democracy was restored through
a royal proclamation of King Gyanendra.
•
•
• 30th Falgun, 2074 BS: Ganesh Timilsina was elected as the Chairperson
of the National Assembly
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Exercise
(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When was the first meeting of reinstated House of Representatives held?
(b) Who was the Prime Minister when the Comprehensive Peace Agreement
was signed?
(c) Why did the first Constituent Assembly fail to draft the constitution?
(d) Who was the head of the government during the second Constituent
Assembly election?
(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Make a list of important changes brought by the historical declaration of
reinstated House of Representatives on 4th Jestha, 2063 BS.
(b) Write about the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal (2072).
(c) What are the main reasons for declaring Nepal as the Democratic Republic
country?
(d) "With the promulgation of Nepal's constitution, the wish of Nepali people
set before 2007 BS is fulfilled.” Explain the statement.
(3) Give long answers to the following questions.
(a) Compare the political, social and economic condition of Nepal between
2046 BS and 2063 BS with that of after 2063 BS.
(b) Compose a dialogue on the election of Constituent Assembly I and II with
their effects on Nepali politics.
Community Work
Meet some senior citizens near your school or house and request them to
recall and evaluate the major political changes after Mass Revolution -II in
your area. Then, prepare a short report of your studies on the following titles.
Title
Objectives
Methodology
Findings
Conclusion
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