Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nepal’s journey toward democracy has been a complex process involving multiple "Jana Andolans" (People’s Movements) and transitions from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy and eventually to a republic.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
For much of the 20th century, Nepal was ruled by an absolute monarch under the Panchayat system, which banned political parties.
The 1990 Transformation:
In early 1990, a massive pro-democracy movement known as the "Jana Andolan I" was launched.
It was led by the Nepali Congress and the United Left Front.
The movement involved strikes, protests, and civil disobedience across the country.
Under intense domestic and international pressure, King Birendra conceded to the demands.
He lifted the ban on political parties and promulgated a new constitution in November 1990.
This transformed Nepal from an absolute monarchy into a Constitutional Monarchy with a multi-party parliamentary system.
Later Transitions:
While 1990 was the birth of democracy, it was not the end of political turmoil.
A Maoist insurgency lasted from 1996 to 2006.
In 2002, King Gyanendra dismissed the government and restored absolute rule.
This led to the "Second Jana Andolan" in 2006, which stripped the king of his powers.
Finally, in 2008, Nepal became a Federal Democratic Republic, and the monarchy was abolished entirely.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The initial transition to a democratic, multi-party system occurred in 1990.
The correct option is (B).