KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

Miraj Dhungana Group Protests at Singha Durbar Demanding Election Halt

The Miraj Dhungana-led group (Garikhan Deu Abhiyan) protested outside the Singha Durbar gate on Tuesday, clashing briefly with police after Prime Minister Sushila Karki reportedly failed to grant them time. The group’s eight-point joint demand letter calls for arresting former PM KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak for the September 8 and 9 incidents. They also demanded the cancellation of the declared election, the formation of an all-party government for constitutional amendment, and the confiscation of leaders’ movable and immovable property.

PM Karki: Gender Violence Cannot End Without Eradicating Poverty

Prime Minister Sushila Karki asserted on Tuesday that gender-based violence cannot be eliminated unless poverty is first eradicated. Speaking at the launch of the 16-Day Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence, PM Karki stressed that economic equality is essential for ending domestic violence. She emphasized the need to create job opportunities for women to prevent them from seeking employment abroad and facing violence there. She also highlighted her efforts to prioritize women in government appointments where possible.

Minister Kharel Pledges Action Against Digital Violence

Minister of Communication and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel stated the government is committed to stopping digital violence against women and girls. Speaking at the formal launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign on Tuesday, Minister Kharel highlighted the global theme: “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.” He pledged to strengthen legal and policy frameworks, review cyber laws to hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure a secure and inclusive digital ecosystem for all citizens.

16 Days of Activism Launches in Baglung

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign launched in Baglung on Tuesday, with a morning rally involving the municipality, police, and various social groups. The campaign was inaugurated by Gandaki Provincial Assembly Member Kusum Budha and Baglung Municipality Chief Basant Kumar Shrestha. Chief Shrestha noted that while women are the primary victims, men are also frequent victims of violence. He emphasized the need for a non-violent society and stated that the municipality is promoting equal participation of men and women in development projects to reduce violence.

114 Schools in Baitadi Face Closure as 7,854 Students Migrate

A total of 114 basic schools across 10 local levels in Baitadi are facing closure as families migrate to India for employment. Data from the Education Development and Coordination Unit shows that community school enrollment dropped by 7,854 students this year, decreasing from 69,882 (academic session 2024) to 62,028 (academic session 2025). Despite local levels spending over Rs 4 billion annually on education, schools are emptying; for instance, Patan Municipality spends over Rs 300 million annually, yet 14 schools have no students.

168 Inmates Still Missing After Bhimphedi Jailbreak

Following the jailbreak from Bhimphedi Prison in Makwanpur on the night of September 8 and 9, at least 168 of the 440 escaped inmates are still at large. Prison Chief Subash Poudel reported that 272 inmates have either returned or been recaptured as of Tuesday morning. Among the total escapees, 39 were foreign inmates, of whom 13 have returned, leaving 26 foreign inmates still unaccounted for. District Police Office officials confirmed that the search operation for the remaining escapees is being intensified.

Woman Killed in Wild Elephant Attack in Kanchanpur

A 45-year-old woman was killed on Tuesday morning in a wild elephant attack in Syaule, Bhimdatta Municipality-14, Kanchanpur. According to District Police Office spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Sagar Bohara, the elephant, which came from the Shuklaphanta National Park, attacked as she attempted to flee after it started demolishing her house. She died during treatment at Mahakali Provincial Hospital.

CPN-UML Registers for House of Representatives Election

The CPN (UML) has submitted an application to the Election Commission (EC) for registration to contest the upcoming House of Representatives election, scheduled for March 5, 2026. The application was submitted by Central Election Department Chief Niraj Acharya. EC Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai confirmed that a total of 67 political parties have registered for the general election so far. The CPN (UML) had previously registered for the National Assembly election, set for January 25, 2026.

Home Minister Inaugurates Lumbini Security Seminar for Election

Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal inaugurated the Lumbini Province-level Security Seminar in Bhairahawa on Tuesday. The seminar is focused on security preparations for the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. Minister Aryal asserted the government’s commitment to ensuring the election takes place. Key security and government officials present included Lumbini Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya, Nepal Police IGP Dan Bahadur Karki, and Armed Police Force IG Raju Aryal.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party Registers for Upcoming Election

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has registered for the upcoming House of Representatives election. RPP Spokesperson Mohan Shrestha confirmed the registration, stating that while the party maintains that elections under the current status quo will not solve the nation’s problems, it registered to participate in the democratic process as a responsible political entity.

Tarun Dal Issues Seven-Point Directive to Boost Political Activity

The Nepal Tarun Dal issued a seven-point circular to its district committees on Tuesday, urging them to increase political activism ahead of the upcoming election. Issued by Chairman Bidwan Gurung, the directive instructs committees to organize rallies, march passes, and corner meetings to draw attention to election assurance. The circular also directs committees to actively recruit Gen Z youth, engage with civil society, and submit formal attention letters to the District Administration regarding peace and security concerns.

NC Special Convention Supporters to Hold Assembly Tomorrow

The faction of the Nepali Congress (NC) advocating for a special general convention has called a special assembly on Wednesday at the National Assembly Hall. The assembly aims to pressure the party leadership to heed the demand for a special convention. This demand was formally submitted on October 15 to Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka, with the signatures of 2,499 NC representatives. As per the NC statute, the special convention must be called within three months of the proposal date.

UML Issues Directives for 11th National Convention Delegate Selection

The CPN (UML) Organization Department issued five-point directives for selecting delegates for its 11th National Convention, scheduled for December 13 to 15, 2025, in Kathmandu. Standing Committee Member Kashinath Adhikari stated that delegate consensus efforts must conclude by November 28, with any necessary elections to be held on November 29. The department also capped the application fee for delegate candidacy at a maximum of Rs 1,000. Approximately 2,200 delegates are expected to attend the convention.

Government Begins Survey for Landless Squatters and Unmanaged Settlers

The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation has begun a nationwide identification and record collection drive for landless squatters and unmanaged settlers across the country. Assistant Spokesperson Damodar Wagley stated that this one-door system aims to manage these communities, prioritizing the ‘Landless Dalit’ families. The government plans to grant land titles to unmanaged settlers after assessing the land and collecting required revenue, but settlements built by encroaching on forests or public areas will not be recognized.

African Swine Fever Confirmed in Nawalparasi Pork

The sale of pork and pig meat has been banned in the weekly market in Parasi, the headquarters of Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta Paschim), after the presence of African Swine Fever was confirmed. Ramgram Municipality issued the ban after samples taken on November 12 tested positive. Confirmation was later reinforced by PCR tests conducted in Kathmandu. The Livestock Service Department classifies African swine fever as a “highly dangerous” epidemic with a high mortality rate. Farmers in the area are urged to take strict precautions, as the disease poses a severe risk to pig herds.

Arjun Chaupari Pledges Free Eye Treatment for Students

A total of 2,259 students in Arjun Chaupari Rural Municipality received free eye check-ups during a four-day camp held at their schools. The screening identified 217 students requiring further medical attention. Rural Municipality Chairperson Prakash Tiwari announced that the entire treatment for all referred children will be provided free of charge. Chief Administrative Officer Yubraj Aryal confirmed that initial treatment will take place at the local Eye Treatment Center, with specialized and complex cases being referred to the Himalayan Eye Hospital in Pokhara for cost-free treatment.

Sarlahi Begins Polling Station Inspection for March 5 Election

The District Polling Station and Polling Center Recommendation Committee in Sarlahi began inspecting polling stations on Monday in preparation for the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. The inspection team, led by Chief District Officer Ramu Raj Kadariya and District Election Officer Shiv Narayan Sah, assessed the physical condition, accessibility, and security situation of the sites. With the recent addition of 22,595 new voters, the District Election Office confirmed that the number of polling centers is likely to increase.

Bibaha Panchami Celebrated with Ram-Sita Swayamvar in Janakpurdham

The Bibaha Panchami festival is being celebrated across the country on Marga Shirsha Shukla Panchami, commemorating the wedding of Ram and Sita in the Treta Yuga. In Janakpurdham, the ancient capital of Mithila, the symbolic Swayamvar of Sita and Ram is being held at the historic Rangbhoomi Maidan. This will be followed by a grand procession and the wedding ceremony at the Janaki Temple tonight. The event is particularly lively this year with the arrival of the groom’s procession of sadhus and saints from Ayodhya, India, which occurs every five years.

Gen Z Activists Protest Against UML Leader Mahesh Basnet in Surkhet

Youths, led by Gen Z activist Subarna Thapa, staged a protest against CPN (UML) leader Mahesh Basnet in Birendranagar, Surkhet, on Tuesday. The protest coincided with Basnet’s arrival to attend the National Youth Federation’s campaign. Protesters carried placards with slogans like “Arrest Mahesh Basnet,” accusing him of issuing provocative statements and engaging in “gangster-style” tactics against the Gen Z protest. CPN (UML) Deputy General Secretary Pradeep Gyawali was also present at the event. The District Police Office confirmed that the protest remained peaceful.

Nepathya Band Concludes Japan Tour, Honored on Zepp Osaka’s ‘Wall of Fame’

The folk-rock band Nepathya concluded its latest Japan concert series in Osaka on Monday. Following the successful show at Zepp Osaka Bayside, the venue management honored the band by requesting a signed message for its ‘Wall of Fame.’ Kiran Krishna Shrestha of Nepalaya (band management) called this a new benchmark for the band. Venue Manager Endo Naoshi praised the audience’s widespread participation and energy. During the performance, lead singer Amrit Gurung urged the audience to “vote for the good people” in the upcoming election.

Woman-Centric Film ‘Stree’ to Release after Election

The new film Stree, written and directed by Jiwan Shahi, is set to be released nationwide on March 13, 2026. The film, which features a woman-centric social story, is currently in the post-production phase. The main cast includes popular actors Pramod Agrahari, Salon Basnet, Rista Basnet, Namrata Shrestha, Dinesh DC, and Deepa Shree Niroula. The film’s digital rights have already been acquired by OSR Digital.

Filming Begins for Nepali Movie ‘Bikram’ in London, UK

Shooting for the new film Bikram, directed by Bikram Joshi, began on Sunday in London, UK. The film is a joint production under the banner of Maharani Production UK, Film Factory UK, and Sanskriti Creations Nepal, with Hiral Joshi as the producer. The cast includes actors Salon Basnet and Sanam Kumar Bairagi, along with foreign artist Nadeshi Hopkins. The production team plans to film 90 percent of the movie in the UK and the remaining 10 percent in Nepal.

Film ‘Paralko Aago’ Based on Guru Prasad Mainali to Release on April

The film Paralko Aago, based on the famous story by Guru Prasad Mainali, has set its release date for April 24, 2026. The announcement was made on Tuesday alongside the release of some character looks. Directed by Laxman Sunar and featuring a screenplay by Sushil Devkota, the movie stars Saugat Malla, Prakash Saput, Suhana Thapa, and Srijana Adhikari. The film was shot entirely in the scenic locations of Myagdi district.

Saudi Ambassador Saad Abuhaimed Bids Farewell to President Paudel

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nepal, Saad Nasser Abdullah Abu Haimed, paid a courtesy farewell call to President Ram Chandra Paudel on Tuesday. The meeting took place at the president’s office. President’s Office Spokesperson Pradip Kumar Koirala confirmed that the discussion focused on strengthening the long-standing bilateral relationship between Nepal and Saudi Arabia, as well as mutual interests and concerns. President Paudel expressed thanks and appreciation to Ambassador Haimed for the successful completion of his diplomatic tenure.

US-Backed Gaza Aid Foundation Closes Down

The controversial US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) announced on Monday that it is winding down its aid operations in Gaza after almost six months. The foundation claimed the “successful completion of its emergency mission,” stating it delivered over 187 million meals. The GHF, which began operations on May 26, was widely criticized by the UN and other aid agencies for bypassing standard humanitarian protocols and operating distribution sites inside Israeli military zones. Hamas welcomed the closure and called for the GHF to be held accountable.

Ethiopian Volcanic Ash Hits Delhi, Flights Disrupted

A plume of volcanic ash from the eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano on Sunday morning swept across the Red Sea and reached Delhi, India, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The ash, located between 8.5 km and 15 km above sea level, has disrupted air travel, resulting in Air India canceling 11 flights and affecting other carriers. India’s aviation regulator has advised airlines to “strictly avoid” affected areas. The IMD stated the ash is unlikely to affect Delhi’s air quality and expects the skies to clear by Tuesday evening.

South Korean ‘National TV Dad’ Lee Soon-jae Dies at 91

Lee Soon-jae, one of South Korea’s most beloved actors, died on Tuesday at the age of 91, his agency announced. With a career spanning over 70 years, Lee was fondly known as the “national TV dad” for his roles in classics like the 1991 soap What on Earth is Love and the popular sitcom High Kick! (2006 to 2012). He remained active until last year, winning the grand prize at the KBS Drama Awards for Dog Knows Everything, becoming the oldest South Korean actor to receive the honor.

China Condemns Japan’s Missile Plan Near Taiwan

China condemned Japan’s plan to deploy a medium-range surface-to-air missile unit on Yonaguni Island near Taiwan, calling it an attempt to “create regional tension” on Monday. Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said on Sunday that the deployment on the island, located only 110 km (68 miles) off Taiwan’s coast, aims to protect Japan’s territory and lower the chances of an armed attack. In contrast, Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu supported the move, asserting it is helpful for security in the Taiwan Strait.

Singapore Orders Apple and Google to Fight Scams

Singapore Police issued an order on Tuesday to Apple and Google under the nation’s Online Criminal Harms Act. The companies must implement measures to prevent the spoofing of other Singapore government agencies on their iMessage and Google Messages platforms. The order follows observations of scams where fraudulent messages appeared alongside legitimate SMS, tricking the public. Both Apple and Google have committed to complying with the order, which requires them to block or filter accounts using spoofed government names.

Apple Cuts Jobs in Sales and Government Teams

Apple announced job cuts across its sales teams on Monday, stating that a small number of roles would be impacted as it seeks to strengthen customer engagement. The affected positions include account managers working with major businesses and a government sales team, including those serving the U.S. Defense Department and the Justice Department. This team had already faced tough conditions following the 43-day government shutdown. Apple confirmed it is continuing to hire and that the affected employees are eligible to apply for other roles within the company.

Femicide Report: Over 50,000 Women Killed by Partners in 2024

A new report released on Tuesday by the UNODC and UN Women revealed that over 50,000 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or family members worldwide in 2024. This tragic figure equates to one death every 10 minutes. Overall, 60 percent of the 83,000 women and girls intentionally killed were victims of partners or relatives. The report states that the home remains a dangerous place, and the highest regional rate of these femicides was recorded in Africa. Experts stress the urgent need for stronger prevention and criminal justice responses.

Pakistan Strikes Afghanistan, 10 Civilians Killed

Pakistan conducted air strikes in Afghanistan on Tuesday, killing at least 10 civilians, including nine children and one woman, in Khost province, according to Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. The strikes followed a suicide attack in Peshawar, Pakistan, that killed three officers and wounded 11. Pakistan’s President Asif Zardari blamed the attack on TTP militants, which Islamabad refers to as “Fitna al-Khawarij” and accuses of using Afghan soil. The diplomatic truce remains under strain over security issues.