Former King Gyanendra prepares to leave Narayanhiti Palace

Kathmandu, June 11 : Former King of Nepal Gyanendra is preparing to leave the Narayanhiti and move into the Nagarjuna palace as requested by him.

A team of security personnel inspected the Nagarjuna palace to assess the situation there before the former King makes it his formal residence for a temporary period.

Gyanendra has been provided with 50 Armed Police Force personnel and 25 Nepali Army personnel.

The Nagarjuna palace comprises of 10 buildings including the ex-royals' residence (Hemanta Bas), three guest houses (Barsha Bas, Sharad Bas and Grishma Bas), one office secretariat and one staff quarters.

Gyanendra's family will reside at the centrally-located two-storey Hemanta Bas. It has two bedrooms, one dressing room and a meeting hall called Hemanta Baithak on the ground floor.

Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala discussed with Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula and security officials for the security arrangements for the palace and former King.

Five senior officials of the Nepali Army including chief of army staff Rookmangud Katwal, senior officials from Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and National Investigation Department attended the meeting.

Besides, Home Secretary, Defense Secretary and Security Advisor of Koirala Ramesh Jung Thapa were also present at the meeting.

ANI