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.

Election Commission Bans Use of Physical Symbols in Campaigning

The Election Commission has prohibited political parties and candidates from using physical objects shaped like election symbols during campaigns. Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai issued a statement on Sunday, clarifying that symbols should only be printed on cloth, paper, or flex banners according to set standards. The ban follows complaints that heavy objects made of wood or metal pose security risks and disturb public peace. The commission emphasized that any campaign materials made of hard materials violate the Election Code of Conduct. Candidates are urged to stick to traditional flags and printed posters to ensure a safe and orderly environment leading up to the polls.

Supreme Court Orders EC File in Durga Prasai Detention Case

The Supreme Court of Nepal has ordered the original file of the Election Commission (EC) of Nepal decision that led to the arrest of medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai to be presented before it. A joint bench of Justices Nahakul Subedi and Meghraj Pokharel directed the Office of the Attorney General to produce the file, including the February 16 decision instructing authorities to investigate and take action against Prasai. Police arrested Prasai following the commission’s directive and kept him in custody with permission from the District Administration Office. Prasai has filed a habeas corpus petition, claiming he was detained without legal grounds.

Clash Between Locals and Chinese Workers Injures Seven

A violent clash between local and Chinese workers at Himalayan Food Company in Marin Rural Municipality-4, Sindhuli District, resulted in seven injuries. District Police Office Sindhuli spokesperson Surya Prakash Subedi reported on Monday that the dispute began after 30-year-old Navraj Bamjan was fired. The injured include two locals and five Chinese nationals, identified as Mr. Yang, Yang Haibo Waya, Qiang Chong, Zhu Zhen, and Leusency. Victims sustained injuries to their heads, chests, and limbs and are currently receiving treatment at the Kapilakot Primary Health Center. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident.

Curfew Lifted in Birgunj as Authorities Issue Night Prohibitory Order

Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal announced that the curfew in Birgunj Metropolitan City, Parsa District, was lifted at 4:30 PM on Monday. The curfew, imposed at 9:45 AM following tensions over a parking dispute between neighbors, has been replaced by a prohibitory order effective from 6:00 PM tonight until 8:00 AM tomorrow. The order restricts gatherings and rallies in key areas, including Powerhouse Chowk and Ghantaghar. A harmony committee meeting earlier today decided to prosecute those spreading hate speech or misinformation on social media, while religious leaders pledged to help maintain social and communal peace in the city.

Road Accidents Claim 44 Lives in 18 Days

A surge in road accidents across the domestic nation has resulted in over 44 deaths within the last 18 days. The most recent tragedy occurred in Benighat Rorang, Dhading, on Monday, when a bus plunged into the Trishuli River, killing 19 people. Previously, an accident in Baitadi on February 5 claimed 13 lives, followed by a crash in Ramechhap on February 10 that killed 12. Deputy Inspector General Abhi Narayan Kafle noted that road conditions and driver negligence are primary factors. Despite the rising death toll, critics argue that the government has yet to conduct thorough investigations into these frequent traffic disasters.

59 Polling Stations in Sunsari Labeled Highly Sensitive

The Sunsari District Security Committee has classified 59 polling stations as “highly sensitive” ahead of the March 5 election. These locations are primarily at local units bordering India, including Barju, Harinagar, Dewanganj, Koshi, and Bhokraha. Authorities have identified the open border as a major security challenge and are coordinating with Indian counterparts to tighten checks. In total, the district has 166 polling stations and 591 booths for 580,945 eligible voters. Security forces, including the army and armed police force, have been deployed to prevent criminal activities and maintain religious harmony during the voting process.

6 Women Appointed as Election Officers in Mustang

The District Election Office in Mustang has appointed six women as election officers for the upcoming polls on March 5. District Election Officer Lokendra Gyawali identified the officers as Sushila Gyawali, Sakuntala Adhikari, Jita Giri, Samiksha Kandel, Ranjita Pokharel, and Shobha Pun. Additionally, seven women will serve as assistant election officers. Given Mustang’s high-altitude terrain, the office is providing specialized health briefings to prevent altitude sickness among staff. These officers, drawn from various government levels and technical sectors, are responsible for managing 39 polling stations serving 11,328 voters across the district’s five rural municipalities.

Tanahun Residents Surrender 118 Licensed Weapons for Election

In preparation for the March 5 election, 118 citizens in Tanahun have surrendered their licensed firearms to the police. Assistant Chief District Officer Deepak Regmi stated on Monday that the measure aims to prevent the misuse of weapons and ensure a peaceful voting environment. The District Administration Office had previously issued a directive for all license holders to deposit their arms at the nearest police units. These weapons will remain under secure police custody until the election process is completed, after which they will be returned to their owners. This initiative is a key part of the district’s comprehensive security plan.

Security Patrols Deployed Across Bajura’s Polling Stations

Authorities in Bajura have initiated security patrols across all nine local levels to secure the March 5 election. Chief District Officer Dorendra Niroula classified 43 out of 77 polling stations as “highly sensitive,” with 23 labeled as “sensitive.” Information Officer Naresh Bahadur Shahi confirmed that teams of 20 personnel, led by inspectors, are conducting patrols to deter social disturbances. A joint force of the Army, Armed Police Force, and Police is monitoring the district’s 118 centers. Bajura has 87,861 eligible voters, and these patrols aim to provide a sense of safety while ensuring the secure delivery of election materials to remote areas.

Ilam Election Office Discusses Code of Conduct with Journalists

The District Election Office Ilam held a discussion with media persons on Monday regarding the Election Code of Conduct. Journalists, led by Federation of Nepali Journalists, Ilam President Bhim Chapagain, requested the District Administration Office to ensure smooth reporting environments at polling and counting centers. Former presidents Som Suseli and Satendra Jabegu urged for timely issuance of press passes and better coordination with security personnel. Chief District Officer Laxman Dhakal and Chief Election Officer Roshan Gajurel pledged to facilitate media access, emphasizing the role of journalists in monitoring potential violations and ensuring transparency during the March 5 election.

Myagdi Office Starts Packing Election Materials

The Chief Election Officer’s office in Myagdi has begun packing essential materials for the March 5 election. Chief Election Officer Surya Bahadur Thapa stated on Monday that staff are verifying ballot papers and preparing kits including ballot boxes, stamps, and stationery for 120 polling booths. The district has 86,397 registered voters, with 12 candidates competing for the parliamentary seat. Security committees have classified 15 sites as “highly sensitive” and 58 as “sensitive.” As officials finalize the appointment and training of polling staff, political parties have intensified their door-to-door campaigns across the district’s six local units.

Over 5,000 Security Personnel Deployed in Banke

The Banke District Security Committee has deployed 5,553 security personnel to safeguard the March 5 election. Chief District Officer Dil Kumar Tamang announced that the force includes 1,500 police officers, 1,000 armed police, 553 army personnel, and 2,500 election police. Given Banke’s sensitive border with India, Superintendent of Police Angur GC has coordinated with Indian counterparts to monitor the open border. Meanwhile, District Election Officer Tek Bahadur Shahi is conducting final training for 806 polling and assistant polling officers. The joint forces have already started patrolling the 139 polling stations to ensure a secure environment for all voters in the district.

HPV Vaccination Campaign Begins in 3 Remote Local Units of Baglung

Health authorities have launched a vaccination campaign against cervical cancer in Baglung, Jaimini, and Dhorpatan municipalities. The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine will be administered to 2,302 girls aged 10 or those in Grade 6 from Sunday to Friday. District Immunization Supervisor Raju Khatri noted that teams are visiting schools and homes to ensure no child is missed. The campaign is scheduled to conclude before the March 5 election to avoid logistical conflicts. Last year, the program successfully vaccinated 11,177 girls, and this year’s effort aims to maintain the province’s long-term public health goals.

Lumbini Government Approves Bills on Tharu Traditions

The Lumbini Provincial Government has granted theoretical approval to draft two significant bills. According to spokesperson Dinesh Panthi, the first bill aims to institutionalize the Tharu community’s customary systems and values. The second bill addresses the management of stray cattle, a major issue in the Terai districts. Data shows there are 12,732 stray animals in the province, with 39 existing shelters only able to accommodate 8,995. Once enacted, these laws are expected to protect indigenous rights and reduce road accidents and crop damage caused by abandoned livestock. The Ministry of Agriculture, Land Management and Cooperatives initiated these legislative steps following a detailed provincial survey.

Tulsipur Faces Severe Water Shortage as Sources Dry Up

The Tulsipur Drinking Water Consumers and Sanitation Organization reported a significant drop in water supply as the winter season ends. Treasurer Bhola Prasad Thapa stated on Monday that while daily demand reaches 10 million liters, only 5.4 million liters are currently being supplied. To manage the crisis, the organization is implementing a rotation system, reducing service from daily to alternate days. Currently, 12,000 taps are served via 17 underground sources and gravity-fed systems. Officials hope the completion of the ‘Babai Water Lifting Project’ will provide a long-term solution to the recurring seasonal water scarcity in the region.

Banke Police Register 143 Cases in a Month

The District Police Office Banke reported registering 143 cases from January 15 to February 12. Spokesperson Deepak Patali detailed that the cases include six heinous crimes, 55 serious crimes, and 82 minor offenses. Police arrested 133 individuals during this period. The report also noted 34 economic crimes and 206 complaints related to women, children, and senior citizens, of which 180 have been resolved. Additionally, authorities seized 163 grams of brown sugar and over 1,100 capsules of controlled drugs. Of the 40 domestic violence complaints received, 25 were settled through mediation, reflecting the ongoing investigative and social efforts of the local police.

Film ‘Aa Bata Aama’ Grosses over Rs 110 Million at Box Office

The family drama Aa Bata Aama, directed by Chandra Pant, has grossed Rs 112.4 million at the domestic box office. Since its release on January 30, the film has sold 423,111 tickets through February 21. Following this commercial success, producers have already announced a sequel. In contrast, other recent releases like Bigul, Shree Bukuro, and Shivansh failed to reach the Rs 1 million mark, leading their producers to suspend screenings. The Film Development Board released these official figures on Monday, noting that Aa Bata Aama continues to perform well due to a lack of new competition.

Films ‘Kumari’ and ‘Rammita Koo Pirati’ Struggle in Theaters

Director Dinesh Raut’s film Kumari has earned a total of Rs 6.3 million at the domestic box office as of February 21. The Film Development Board reported that the movie sold 19,379 tickets since its release on February 6. Screening alongside it, Rammita Koo Pirati, directed by Sudipta, collected Rs 2.5 million with 7,803 tickets sold. While Aa Bata Aama dominates the market with over 112.4 million, these newer releases are seeing much lower engagement. The board’s Monday report confirmed that several other films released in February have already been pulled from theaters after failing to earn even Rs 1 million.

Jawalakhel Youth Club Secures 3-0 Victory Over Nepal Police

Jawalakhel Youth Club defeated Nepal Police Club 3-0 in a one-sided ANFA National League match on Monday. Playing at the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) Ground in Satdobato, Nicolas Hamilton, Yuvraj Dhakal, and Bikas Darlami Magar each scored to seal the win. With this victory, Jawalakhel moves to ninth place with nine points from six matches, while Nepal Police Club remains in 14th place with four points. The league features 13 ‘A’ Division clubs and several regional teams. The eventual winner of the competition is set to receive a prize of Rs 5 million, as teams continue to battle for better standings in the mid-season.

GM Cup Volleyball Tournament to Begin in Kawasoti

The prestigious GM Cup Volleyball Tournament is scheduled to take place from March 12 to March 17 in Kawasoti, Nawalpur. Organizers announced on Monday that 10 teams, including seven provincial and three departmental squads, will compete at Kumarwarti Multiple Campus. General Secretary Dhirendra Pratap Gaha Magar stated the winner will receive Rs 300,000, while the second- and third-place teams will get Rs 150,000 and Rs 100,000, respectively. The event, supported by the Gandaki Provincial Sports Council, is expected to cost Rs 3 million, funded through local contributions and sports committee grants.

Bridge International Sponsors British Gorkhali Cricket League

Educational consultancy Bridge International has become the main sponsor for the British Gorkhali Cricket League (BGCL) in the United Kingdom. The sponsorship agreement was signed during a ceremony in London attended by National Asian Cricket Council Chairman Gulfraz Riaz and former ECB Manager Paul Bedford. BGCL is the only 40-over format league targeting the Nepali diaspora in Britain, currently entering its sixth successful season. Bridge International CEO Bhuvan Giri emphasized that the partnership aims to promote both sports and education within the community. The league is affiliated with the Hampshire Cricket Board, providing a professional platform for Nepali cricketers residing abroad to showcase their talent.

Indo-Nepal Trade Festival 2026 Concludes in New Delhi

The three-day Indo-Nepal Trade Festival 2026, organized by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industry, concluded in New Delhi, India. The event, supported by the Nepal Tourism Board, focused on energy partnerships, the digital economy, and tourism. Participants proposed a “Himalayan Compute Corridor,” suggesting that the domestic nation’s clean hydropower makes it an ideal hub for data centers to support India’s artificial intelligence (AI) development. Over 20,000 visitors attended the festival at the PHD House, which featured 50 stalls. Discussions emphasized integrating the Ramayana and Buddhist circuits to boost regional tourism and strengthening cross-border infrastructure for economic growth.

EU Urges U.S. to Honor Trade Deal After New Tariffs

The European Commission has called on the United States to respect last year’s transatlantic trade agreement after fresh tariffs were announced by President Donald Trump. Following a Supreme Court of the United States ruling that struck down earlier global tariffs, Trump introduced temporary 10% duties, later raising them to 15%. Brussels said Washington must clarify whether the new measures override the agreed 15% tariff cap on most EU goods and zero-duty exemptions on selected products. Officials warned that unpredictable tariff changes could damage market confidence and disrupt balanced trade relations.

Global Regulators Warn Over AI Images Created Without Consent

The Information Commissioner’s Office and dozens of international privacy authorities have raised concerns about artificial intelligence tools generating realistic images of identifiable people without permission. In a joint statement, regulators urged companies to build strong safeguards into AI systems from the start and ensure innovation does not undermine privacy, dignity, or safety. Authorities said the risks are particularly serious for children and called on organizations to work closely with regulators to prevent misuse of the rapidly developing technology.