Indian Ambassador calls on Nepal PM over Gyanenedra's me

Kathmandu, Feb 20 (UNI) Indian ambassador to Nepal Shiv Shankar Mukherjee called on Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala at his residence in Baluwatar today.

The meeting took place amidst criticism in the wake of the King Gyanendra's message to the nation on the occasion of Democracy Day yesterday.

In his message the King defended his February 1 takeover, terming his dictatorial role as a ''compulsion''.

Current political situation of the country was discussed during the meeting with the Indian ambassador, an official said.

It is understood that the discussion was also held on the King's controversial statement.

India has played an important role in the Nepal peace process to bring the rebels to the mainstream politics.

Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff General Ruknangad Katuwal met the Prime Minister this morning.

Nepal army, formerly royal army, is under the control of civilian government at present and the King has been stripped off all state responsibilities.

UNI