Maoist annoyed of Gyanendra's visit to Godess

Kathmandu, Oct 1: Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala today asked the Palace officials why King Gyanendra went to seek the blessings of Kumari, the living Goddess, without government permission.

King Gyanendra sought blessings of the child goddess on Sep 30, the last day of Indra Jatra festival, hours after Mr Koirala recieved the auspicious red vermillion paste on his forehead at Basantapur from Shree Kumari, Shree Ganesh and Shree Bhairav.

The annual ritual is considered crucial to preserve the monarch's power. The Prime Minister rang Palace Principal Secretary Pashupati Bhakta Maharjan this morning and asked about yesterday"s incident.

Mr Koirala divulged the details of his visit and his talks with Mr Maharjan during his meeting with former district presidents of the Nepali Congress who are dissatisfied with the party's unification with Nepali Congress Democratic, Kantipur reported.

The Prime Minister has also discussed the issue with Army Chief Rukmangat Katuwal. The Maoists have also expressed their displeasure over Gyanendra's visit, saying it proved that he was still active.

UNI