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.

168 New Polling Stations Added, 93 Canceled

The Election Commission has finalized 10,967 polling stations for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. To make voting more accessible and organized, the Commission added 168 new polling stations and removed 93 that were dilapidated or no longer functional. This adjustment results in a net increase of 75 stations from the previous count of 10,892. During the review, the Commission also corrected errors in names and addresses and relocated voters to more convenient sites to ensure a smoother voting process for citizens across the country.

Rape Survivor Rescued After Suicide Attempt at Patan High Court

A 30-year-old woman attempted suicide on the premises of the Patan High Court in Lalitpur on Friday. The woman reportedly consumed pesticide after the court issued a bail order for an individual accused of raping her. Police officers from the Metropolitan Police Circle Lagankhel rescued her after court staff discovered her in distress. She was immediately rushed to Patan Hospital, where she is currently undergoing emergency medical treatment. Authorities have confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway. This is the second such attempt reported at the court within the week.

Madhesh Province Police Remove 31 Undercover Officers

The Madhesh Province Police Office has removed 31 undercover officers from their duties across eight districts. The decision follows widespread public complaints regarding extortion and threats by these officers. This move is part of an internal purification plan within the police organization to improve transparency and public trust. The provincial office has also initiated further internal investigations into the conduct of the removed personnel. The crackdown aims to curb unauthorized activities often associated with undercover patrolling and investigation units operating in the Terai districts of Madhesh Province.

Government Extends Gen Z Commission Mandate by One Month

The Cabinet has decided to extend the term of the Gauri Bahadur Karki-led commission investigating the Gen Z protests of September 8 and 9 by one month. Minister Jagdish Kharel announced that the mandate now lasts until January 19, 2026, to allow the commission to complete its final report. The protests resulted in 76 deaths and caused Rs 84.45 billion in damages to public and private property. Additionally, the government approved using a vacant block at Nuwakot Central Jail as a juvenile correction center for those over 18 who still have remaining correction periods, addressing overcrowding issues in existing facilities.

US Suspends DV Lottery Program Affecting Millions of Nepali Applicants

The US President Donald Trump administration has ordered the immediate suspension of the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery program, following security concerns. The decision was triggered by a mass shooting involving a former DV recipient. The suspension directly impacts Nepal, which consistently ranks among the top countries for participation, with approximately 1 million to 1.2 million Nepalis applying annually. For the 2025 lottery, nearly 3,861 Nepalis were selected as winners, but the future of their visa issuance remains uncertain under the new directive. Homeland Security has paused the program, which typically grants 55,000 green cards globally each year.

US Deports 75 Nepalis as Trump Intensifies Immigration Crackdown

The United States deported 75 Nepali nationals on Thursday evening via a chartered flight to Kathmandu. The group, consisting of 72 men and 3 women, included individuals who entered via illegal routes and those whose residency permits had expired. One individual had reportedly lived in the US for 30 years but failed to renew his PR card. Many deportees confessed to paying middlemen up to Rs 10 million to reach America. Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2025, a total of 439 Nepalis have been deported.

Dharel Appointed Honorary Consul General of Denmark

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has promoted Hari Dharel to the position of Honorary Consul General of Denmark to Nepal. Dharel, who has served as the consul since 2017, was elevated following a proposal from the Danish government. With 35 years of experience in mountain tourism, Dharel has been active in strengthening bilateral relations. Upon his appointment, he expressed his commitment to further expanding people-to-people ties. He also stated his intention to lobby for the return of the Danish Embassy to Kathmandu, which was previously relocated to New Delhi, to enhance direct diplomatic engagement between the two nations.

Shekhar Koirala Insists on Holding Elections on March 5

Nepali Congress leader Shekhar Koirala stated that the House of Representatives elections must be held on the scheduled date of March 5, 2026. During a meeting with local leaders in Morang, Koirala expressed concerns over the government’s lack of preparation, citing security issues like unrecovered weapons and absconding prisoners. He emphasized that elections are the foundation of democracy and the only way to safeguard the constitution. Koirala urged party workers to begin their preparations immediately, despite his suspicions that the government might not be creating a suitable environment for a free and fair electoral process.

RSP to Hold Provincial Discussions for PR Candidates Tomorrow

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has released its preliminary list of candidates for the proportional representation (PR) electoral system across all seven provinces. The party will hold discussions with these shortlisted candidates on Saturday in their respective provinces. Following the discussions, door-to-door programs are scheduled for the coming Sunday and Monday to introduce the candidates to the public. The Candidate Selection Committee has urged participants to complete their preparations and contact provincial presidents for further details. This transparent internal selection process aims to finalize the party’s list for the upcoming national elections.

Gen Z Activist Purushottam Yadav Joins RSP PR List

Gen Z activist Purushottam Suprabhat Yadav has entered active politics by joining the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). The party has included his name in the preliminary proportional representation (PR) list from the Madheshi quota in Siraha. RSP is currently finalizing its PR list through an internal democratic process for the upcoming elections. Party spokesperson Manish Jha officially welcomed Yadav via social media, highlighting the party’s effort to integrate youth activists into the political mainstream. This move aligns with the party’s strategy to mobilize influential youth voices from the Madhesh region for the March 5, 2026, parliamentary polls.

AJT Forms Task Force for Proportional Representation

The Aam Janata Party (AJP) has formed a three-member task force to select candidates for the proportional representation (PR) category for the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. Led by Co-chair Tilak Thapa Magar, the committee includes Umesh Kushwaha and Ranju Sah. The task force is mandated to select candidates based on their contributions to the party and past movements. Party Office Secretary Rabindra Singh stated that the group will ensure adherence to party policy and ideology. Furthermore, the party has directed its district and regional committees to recommend potential candidates for both direct and PR electoral systems.

UML Central Committee to Convene Second Meeting in January

The newly elected Central Committee of CPN (UML) is scheduled to hold its second meeting from January 11 to 13, 2026. General Secretary Shankar Pokharel presented the proposal during the committee’s first meeting held in Kathmandu on Friday. The three-day session will focus on party organization and future political strategies. The first meeting served as an introductory gathering for the new leadership, while the upcoming Poush session will delve into formal decision-making processes. The proposal is currently being finalized as the party prepares its internal roadmap following the recent leadership transition.

Government Passes Ordinance for Proportional Representation Percentages

The Cabinet has passed an ordinance to amend the House of Representatives Election Act, 2017, aligning proportional representation percentages with the 2022 National Census. The ordinance, sent to the President for authentication, establishes new cluster-based quotas for Dalits, Adibasi Janajati, Khas Arya, Madhesi, Tharu, and Muslim groups. Minister Jagdish Kharel stated that this move ensures inclusive representation in the 110 PR seats of the 275-member house. A six-member committee led by Subhash Kumar Bhattarai finalized the figures based on the latest demographic data. Political parties will now be required to submit their closed candidate lists according to these updated population percentages.

Nepal Police Formulates Integrated Security Plan 2025

To ensure a free and fair House of Representatives election on March 5, 2026, Nepal Police has developed the “Integrated Security Plan 2025.” Central Spokesperson DIG Abinarayan Kafle stated that over 1.3 million and 46,000 personnel have already been mobilized for various patrols. A “Central Election Cell” has been established under AIG Uma Prasad Chaturvedi to oversee operations. The strategy includes monitoring border areas, securing candidates and observers, and controlling criminal activities like forced donations or threats. Additionally, special teams are working to recover weapons lost during past protests and arrest absconding individuals to mitigate potential threats during the electoral process.

39 KMC Schools Adopt Nepali Names

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Education Department announced that 39 institutional schools have renamed themselves to reflect a “Nepali identity” following a municipal request. Currently, KMC oversees 784 educational institutions, including 425 institutional and 84 community schools. In the academic session 2024, at least 30,779 students received scholarships through a new system-based approach. For the current fiscal year, KMC has allocated Rs 3.294 billion for education. Out of this, Rs 1.773 billion has been spent, including funds for the “Education for Labor” program and other golden projects aimed at improving educational quality.

Air Pollution Costs South Asia 10 Percent of GDP Annually

A World Bank report titled “A Breath of Change” reveals that air pollution causes 1 million premature deaths annually in South Asia, affecting nearly one billion people. The study estimates that toxic air results in an economic loss equivalent to 10 percent of the region’s total GDP. Key pollution sources include solid fuel for cooking, industrial emissions without filters, and crop residue burning. The report urges Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Bangladesh to coordinate on cleaner technologies, such as electric cooking and improved waste management. Senior Environmental Economist Martin Heger emphasized that coordinated regional action and reliable data are essential to saving lives and ensuring economic growth.

Balaju Transport Office to Start License Trials

The Transport Management Office in Balaju is preparing to conduct written and practical (trial) examinations for driving licenses. Currently providing only renewal and tax collection services, the office has called for proposals to select a trial center. Office Chief Chetnath Bhattarai confirmed that the facility will cater to Categories A and K (Motorcycles/Scooters), B and J (Cars/Jeeps/Minibuses), and Category G (Trucks/Buses). The planned center will feature a hall for 100 examinees and a combined compound for two-wheeler and four-wheeler trials. This expansion aims to reduce the pressure on other transport offices in the Kathmandu Valley.

Transport Department to Install RFID Gates for Vehicle Tracking

While the Road Board builds toll gates, the Department of Transport Management is installing Radio Frequency Identity (RFID) gates at 10 locations for vehicle security. These gates will scan chips in embossed number plates to track stolen vehicles. Two gates are already functional at Nagdhunga and Nagarjun, with others planned for Pathlaiya, Itahari, and Pokhara. The system alerts a central database if a stolen vehicle passes through, allowing security forces to intercept it immediately. This dual infrastructure plan aims to modernize traffic management and enhance the recovery rate of lost or stolen automobiles across the country.

Government Set to Provide Monthly Stipends to Gen Z Protest Victims

The government has introduced a relief procedure to provide monthly subsistence allowances to individuals injured during the Gen Z protests on September 8 and 9. The office of the Health Ministry stated that victims are categorized into four levels. While those with minor injuries receive no cash, medium-level victims will get Rs 4,000 per month, seriously injured individuals Rs 9,000, and those with extreme injuries Rs 18,000 monthly. So far, 183 people in Kathmandu, Kaski, and Chitwan have been verified, with 18 categorized as extreme. A total of 2,522 injuries were reported across 74 health institutions.

APF Announces Recruitment for Various Positions

The Armed Police Force (APF) has opened applications for several vacant positions across general, technical, and health groups. According to the notice published on Friday, interested candidates can apply between December 26, 2025, and January 25, 2026. Late applications with double fees will be accepted until February 4, 2026. Online applicants for positions such as Inspector, Assistant Inspector, and Staff Nurse must submit their original documents to their chosen office by February 6. The recruitment drive aims to fill vacancies through open competition to strengthen the security force’s operational and medical capacity.

Home Ministry Proposes New Nepal Police O&M Plan

The Ministry of Home Affairs has proposed a new Organization and Management (O&M) survey for the Nepal Police, aiming to restructure key positions and units. The proposal is currently under review at the Ministry of Finance. Key changes include moving SSP positions from the Canine Office and Motor Division to the general group and increasing DSP and SP slots at the Nepal Police Hospital. Additionally, a new division will be formed to investigate financial crimes, incorporating staff currently working at the Department of Money Laundering Investigation to address FATF “grey list” concerns.

First Time Kanchanpur Police Deploy Radar Speed Guns for Road Safety

For the first time, Kanchanpur Traffic Police have started using “radar speed guns” to monitor vehicle speeds and reduce accidents. Traffic Inspector Balendra Nath reported that the technology is being used in Mahendranagar bazaar, where the speed limit is 30 km/h. So far, nearly 300 vehicles have been tested, and two drivers were fined for exceeding 50 km/h. The equipment was provided by the Sudurpaschim Province Traffic Police Office. Additionally, the police are conducting awareness programs in schools and municipalities, advising citizens to use zebra crossings and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol to ensure public safety.

Electricity Substation Construction Starts in Mustang with Rs 380 Million Investment

The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has initiated the construction of two 33 kV power substations in Chaile and Charang, Mustang, at a cost of Rs 380 million. A joint venture has secured the contract to complete the 3MVA substations within 15 months. Located at an altitude of 3,800 meters, the facilities are specially designed to withstand high-altitude conditions and heavy snowfall. Local leaders, including Lopsang Chomphel Bista, noted that these substations will stabilize voltage and ensure reliable power for the tourism and agricultural sectors in Upper Mustang.

Rural Tourism Training Starts in Remote Local Unit of Gorkha

Ajirkot Rural Municipality in Gorkha has launched a five-day training program on hospitality, homestay, and lodge management to promote rural tourism. Organized in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, UNDP, and TAAN, the training targets local youth to reduce foreign migration and strengthen the local economy. The initiative aims to equip locals with professional skills in food quality, sanitation, and tourist engagement. Ajirkot is gaining popularity for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting internal tourists from Chitwan and Dhading. The program intends to transform the area into a sustainable and high-quality tourism destination.

Public Holiday Declared in Sudurpaschim for Bhuwa Festival

The Sudurpaschim Province government declared a public holiday on Friday to celebrate the historic Bhuwa festival. Traditionally observed in Bajura, Bajhang, and Achham, the festival commemorates the Pandavas’ victory in the Mahabharata war. Men dressed in white jamas and turbans perform the Bhuwa dance with swords and shields, symbolizing bravery and military skill. While the festival has deep roots in the hills, migration has brought the celebrations to Kailali and Kanchanpur. The festival serves as a cultural bridge, fostering unity and brotherhood across the province’s diverse geography.

Film “PR” to Release on OTT Platform on Christmas

Director Shobhit Basnet announced that the film PR, which premiered on December 12, will be available on the digital platform “MSM Video” starting December 25. The movie depicts the struggles of Nepali youth in Australia as they navigate the challenges of obtaining a Permanent Residency (PR) card. Filmed in both Nepal and Australia, the project features a cast including Suraj Poudel, Binita Karki, and Pooja Chaudhary, with special appearances by Nir Shah and Gauri Malla. Basnet stated the OTT release aims to reach audiences who missed the theatrical run of the Salon Salina Films production.

Actor Hari Bansha Acharya Undergoes Successful Cataract Surgery

Veteran actor Hari Bansha Acharya underwent cataract surgery on his right eye at the Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology on Friday. The procedure was performed by a medical team led by renowned doctors Sanduk Ruit and Rita Gurung. Following the surgery, Acharya shared a video on social media expressing his gratitude to the medical staff. Doctors have advised the actor to rest for 15 days, wear dark glasses, and avoid dust or smoke. Acharya is expected to begin filming his upcoming project, Pancha Pandav, next month once his recovery period is complete.

President Paudel Unveils 13th Kinder Olympics Mascot

President Ram Chandra Paudel unveiled the mascot and handed over the Olympic torch for the 13th Kinder Olympics during a ceremony at Shital Niwas. The torch was received by Binod Shrestha, president of the Nepal School Sports Federation. The event is scheduled to take place at Dasharath Stadium from December 27 to 30. The federation confirmed that student-athletes will compete in 12 different sports categories during the four-day event. This initiative aims to promote sportsmanship and physical education among schoolchildren across the country, continuing the tradition of the Kinder Olympics as a premier youth sporting event.

Lumbini Lions Announce Trophy Celebration Tour Starting Tomorrow

Lumbini Lions, the winners of the second Nepal Premier League (NPL), will begin a province-wide trophy celebration tour on Saturday. The tour starts in Banke and Bardia, traveling through Dang, Rukum, Rolpa, and Pyuthan. The schedule includes stops at significant locations like the Bageshwori and Supadeurali temples before concluding in Rupandehi on December 30. A mega concert is planned for December 31 in Butwal to mark the end of the journey. The Lumbini Lions secured their title by defeating the Sudurpaschim Royals by six wickets in the tournament final.

First Manabhara Club Level Gold Cup to Feature Rs 302,000 Prize

The first Manabhara Club Level Gold Cup football tournament is scheduled to begin on December 30, in Khejenim, Taplejung. The Manabhara Youth Sporting Club announced that the winner will receive Rs 302,082, while the runner-up will be awarded Rs 152,082. Tournament patron Rabin Samra stated that eight teams, including seven local and one out-of-district team, will participate. The event aims to promote local tourism and will conclude on January 3, 2026, with additional individual cash prizes of Rs 2,500 for the Man of the Match daily.

AFC Fines ANFA for Match Delays

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has fined the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) USD for rules violations. The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee penalized ANFA for delaying the start of both halves during an Asian Cup qualifier against Malaysia on November 18. The team entered the field 1 minute 20 seconds late in the first half and 1 minute 30 seconds late in the second half. ANFA must pay the fine within 30 days. Nepal, which lost the match 1–0, is currently at the bottom of Group F and is out of the tournament.

ByteDance Agrees to Sell TikTok’s US Assets to Avoid Ban

ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has signed binding agreements to sell over 80 percent of its US assets to a group of global investors. This move, announced by CEO Shou Zi Chew on Thursday, aims to prevent a government ban targeting the app used by 170 million Americans. The new entity, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, will include major investors like Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX. President Donald Trump had previously delayed the enforcement of the ban until January 20, provided a divestiture was reached, ensuring the platform’s survival in the United States.

Violent Protests Erupt in Bangladesh After Student Leader’s Death

Bangladesh has been gripped by violent unrest following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who died in Singapore after being shot in Dhaka. On Thursday and Friday, mobs attacked the offices of major media houses, including Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, forcing them to suspend publications. Hadi was a prominent figure in the uprising that ousted the previous government. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus described his death as an irreplaceable loss to democracy and promised a transparent investigation. Security forces have been heavily deployed as tensions remain high ahead of the upcoming national elections.

EU Approves EUR 90 Billion Defense Loan for Ukraine

European Union leaders agreed on Friday to provide a EUR 90 billion loan to fund Ukraine’s defense for the next two years. Rather than directly using frozen Russian assets, which total EUR 210 billion in the EU, the bloc will back the loan through the EU budget. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the decision ensures Ukraine remains financed through 2026. While Hungary initially opposed the plan, it agreed to proceed after receiving financial exemptions. The frozen assets will remain immobilized until Russia pays war reparations.

Australia Launches Gun Buyback After Bondi Beach Terror Attack

Following a deadly mass shooting at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people, the Australian government has announced a massive gun buyback scheme. The attack, linked to extremist ideology, prompted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to tighten firearm controls. The government will co-fund the scheme with states to collect and destroy hundreds of thousands of weapons. New regulations will make citizenship a requirement for a firearm license and limit the number of guns one individual can own. Currently, there are over 4 million firearms in Australia, exceeding the numbers recorded during the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.

Japan Raises Interest Rates to 0.75 Percent Amid Inflation

The Bank of Japan raised its benchmark interest rate to 0.75 percent on Friday, the highest level in 30 years. Led by Governor Kazuo Ueda, the bank aims to curb inflation, which rose by 3 percent in November, exceeding the 2 percent target. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has prioritized fighting the cost-of-living squeeze, although higher rates will increase government borrowing costs. While global central banks like the Bank of England are lowering rates to 3.75 percent, Japan is moving toward normalization to support the yen and reduce import costs.

Hundreds Killed as Thailand-Cambodia Border War Escalates

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified, with the Thai military estimating Cambodian fatalities in the hundreds. Since hostilities resumed on December 7, 21 Thai soldiers have also died. Thai F-16 jets have bombed targets inside Cambodia, including a bridge in Pursat province and suspected scam compounds. Despite a call for a truce from President Trump, Thailand has rejected a ceasefire, insisting the Cambodian army must first be neutralized. More than 700,000 migrant workers have returned, 480,000 Cambodians are uprooted, and the USD 5 billion border trade with Thailand has stopped.

UK Investigates Government Data Breach Linked to Chinese Hackers

Trade Minister Chris Bryant confirmed on Friday that UK government data was stolen in a recent cyberattack. Investigators suspect a Chinese-affiliated group targeted systems operated for the Home Office, potentially accessing visa details. While the security gap was closed quickly, officials are assessing if individual data was compromised. This incident occurs amid Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plans to visit Beijing in 2026. Although the Chinese government denies involvement, GCHQ has reported allocating more resources to counter Chinese espionage than any other threat, highlighting the ongoing tension between trade interests and national security