Kathmandu, June 11: The deadline for signing the condolence book at the Narayanhiti Royal Palace has been extended by another five days on popular demand until Friday, an official announcement said.
“In view of the growing number of natives and foreigners wanting to sign the condolence books kept at the royal palace main gate praying for eternal peace of the departed souls of King Birendra, Queen Aishwarya, King Dipendra and Prince Nirajan, the time has been extended till June 15,” an announcement said. More than 80,000 persons have already signed the books, a palace official said. Similar condolences books have also been kept at all 75 district headquarters.
People are also offering flowers and praying before portraits of the royal family members placed at street corners and crossings in the capital. The spontaneous outpourings of grief and the size of crowds flocking to the royal palace reflect the popularity of monarchy in general and King Birendra in particular.
Although three eyewitnesses have said Crown Prince Dipendra started the killing spree killing or injuring 14 members of the royal family and relatives, some people are still skeptical. Monday marks the 11th day of assassination of King Birendra. The day will be marked by a ritual feeding of the dead king.