Nepal, March 25 -- Eight prominent civil society leaders have strongly condemned the recent political activities of former king Gyanendra Shah, warning that his actions pose a threat to Nepal's constitution and democratic stability. In a joint statement on Monday, they also expressed concern over his attempts to reinstate the monarchy, backed by religious fundamentalists in India, which they believe could lead to lawlessness and political chaos in the country.

Those issuing the joint statement include Mohna Ansari, Kanak Mani Dixit, Rajan Kuikel, Reeta Pariyar, Charan Prasai, Sushil Pyakurel, Dinesh Tripathi and Hira Vishwakarma. The signatories emphasized that the 2015 Constitution, which established Nepal as a democratic republic, is a...