In 1960, King Mahendra of Nepal took a monumental step by suspending the democratic constitution enacted in 1951, which had intended to establish a parliamentary system. The King also dissolved the existing parliament and dismissed the elected cabinet led by Prime Minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala. This act was carried out in response to growing political unrest and dissatisfaction with the performance of the democratic government. Tensions had risen due to various factors, including economic challenges, political infighting, and demands for greater democratic governance. The backdrop of this action was the increasing influence of political parties and movements pushing for reforms, which the monarchy viewed as a direct threat to its authority.

Following his declaration of direct rule, King Mahendra underscored the need for national unity and stability, arguing that the previous parliamentary system had failed to deliver on its promises. He also initiated a campaign that favored a more centralized system of governance, where the royal influence would remain substantial. The King subsequently summoned political leaders to discuss the future of governance, but ultimately sidelined the political parties which had previously been competing for power. This marked the beginning of a political era characterized by increased royal authority and less freedom for democratic expressions, drastically reducing the role of political factions.

The repercussions of King Mahendra's decision impacted Nepal's political landscape for decades, halting democratic progress and fostering an environment of political repression. Despite initial public outrage, the King enacted constitutional reforms after a period of direct rule, emphasizing his vision of Panchayat, a party-less system. These reforms established a framework in which the monarchy retained significant power, diminishing the role of political parties, which would persist until the democratic movement in the early 1990s. The implications of this period in Nepal's history are still felt today, as discussions around democracy, governance, and civil rights continue to shape the nation's political discourse.