Nepals government has stopped paying an allowance (apanage) to King Gyanendra and other members of the Royal Family. Last year they received about 500.000 US dollar (2,75 mio. DKR), BBC online reports Saturday.
The king has lost popularity and political support since he was forced by mass demonstrations in 2006 to give up his executive powers. Nepals government is determined to further reduce King Gyanendras influence and status, and has made him pay tax for the first time.
The finance minister, Ram Sharan Mahat, prefers putting money into the organisation of elections for a national assembly planned for November. Its members will have the job of deciding the fate of the king.
Many government leaders want to abolish the 240-year-old monarchy for good, not least the former Maoist rebels.
