Nepal had undergone a civil uprising in 1950-51, resulting in the establishment of a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional rather an absolute monarchy.

[6] However, by the 1980s, there was a gradual relaxation of political constraints, leading to the emergence of liberal student movements advocating for constitutional reforms in Nepal.

[7] In response to the escalating pro-democracy sentiments, King Birendra announced a referendum to determine the future political system of the country.

In order to stall the movement, the government arrested national and district-level leaders of both the NC and the ULF on 17 February 1990, and banned all opposition newspapers.

[8][9] The king called on the nation in a radio address to stand unified with the monarchy and to pursue democratic reforms through constitutional channels.

The movement became increasingly large and dangerous as thousands of students marched against riot police and hundreds were arrested and injured.

[8][9] Communication between opposition members faltered and palace leadership was at times absent, leaving local governments to deal with the protests as they saw fit.

This constitution forced the monarchy of King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev to hand over decisions of government to the Nepali people.