KATHMANDU: After returning to active politics with the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) after 10 years, former President Bidya Devi Bhandari is preparing to return the government privileges she received as a former head of state.

Following concerns over holding political office while enjoying former president benefits, Bidya Devi Bhandari herself is preparing to send an official letter to the Home Ministry to return those services, effective from 1st Shrawan (July 17).

Though initially expected to announce the decision publicly, Bhandari chose a low-profile approach, opting to inform the Home Ministry through an official letter instead of staging a public event.

A source close to her said she avoided publicity stunts, despite advice from party leaders to make a public statement.

The Home Ministry currently provides her with a monthly allowance of NPR 150,000 for personal secretaries and office support, assigns security personnel housed in a rented residence, and allocates 207 liters of petrol monthly. While she does not use an official vehicle, protocol security cannot be withdrawn from a former president.

Since leaving Sheetal Niwas, Bhandari has not accepted any salary or residence expenses from the government.

She formally announced her return to UML politics during the Madan Jayanti event on 14th Asar (June 28) in Kathmandu and is now taking steps to return her government-provided benefits as she resumes active political engagement.