Nepal's former monarch Gyanendra Shah dropped his royal title on Sunday after using it for 17 years following the monarchy's abolition. The announcement came during the Dashain festival from his residence at Nirmal Niwas. Shah asked for state reforms that respect public sentiment and embrace younger generations' aspirations. The shift follows police interrogation of his communication secretary about using unconstitutional royal designations.
Police had required a written pledge from aide Phanindra Pathak to stop employing the title Shree Panch Maharajadhiraj. Rajan Karki stated the former ruler agreed to honor national laws. Recent political upheaval sparked discussions about restoring the monarchy, but Shah reportedly demanded unanimous party support first. Nepal's constituent assembly voted to end monarchical rule in May 2008 after mass protests.
Police had required a written pledge from aide Phanindra Pathak to stop employing the title Shree Panch Maharajadhiraj. Rajan Karki stated the former ruler agreed to honor national laws. Recent political upheaval sparked discussions about restoring the monarchy, but Shah reportedly demanded unanimous party support first. Nepal's constituent assembly voted to end monarchical rule in May 2008 after mass protests.
