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.

PR Vote Counting for House of Representatives Election Concludes

The Election Commission Nepal has completed vote counting under the proportional representation (PR) system for the March 5 House of Representatives election. Assistant Spokesperson Kul Bahadur GC confirmed that final tallies from Gorkha-1 and Ilam-1 concluded the process, though detailed reports from local election offices are still being received. With counting finished, the Commission has begun allocating proportional seats to political parties, expected to be completed in a few days. A total of 10,804,701 votes were counted. The Rashtriya Swatantra Party leads with 5,139,235 votes, followed by Nepali Congress (1,749,583), CPN (UML) (1,448,854), and Nepali Communist Party (805,773). Other parties are unlikely to meet the threshold.

EC Prepares 3-Day Window for PR Member Nominations

The Election Commission (EC) is set to give political parties a three-day deadline to nominate members for the 110 proportional representation (PR) seats in the House of Representatives. Following the March 5 elections, the EC will calculate seat allocations based on total valid votes and write to parties to select names from their pre-submitted closed lists. Information Officer Suman Ghimire stated that the process could begin as early as tonight. Once names are verified and certificates issued, the EC plans to submit the final election report to the Office of the President.

Election Commission Closes Special Units and Coordination Centers

The Election Commission (EC) has officially closed its special units and coordination centers established for the March 5 general elections. According to Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai, units including the Election Information Communication and Coordination Center (EIDC), the Call Center, and the Joint Election Operations Center (JEOC) ceased operations today. During the election period, the EIDC identified 998 instances of harmful information, while the Call Center addressed 8,220 voter inquiries. Additionally, the JEOC ensured the secure tracking and transport of ballot papers. The EC expressed gratitude to the Home Ministry and security agencies for their flawless coordination.

RSP Ranks Second in Karnali Proportional Representation Votes

The Nepali Congress secured the top position in Karnali Province’s proportional representation (PR) category with 141,233 votes, followed closely by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) with 133,749 votes. The CPN (UML) stood third with 120,863 votes. According to Provincial Election Officer Lal Bahadur Gurung, the election saw a high rate of invalid votes, totaling 43,500 across 10 districts. Additionally, 90 out of 138 candidates lost their security deposits after failing to secure the required minimum vote percentage. In Surkhet-2, 14 out of 17 candidates faced deposit forfeiture.

Over 92,000 Votes Declared Invalid in Sudurpashchim Province

Final election results from Sudurpashchim Province reveal that 92,680 votes were declared invalid across direct and proportional representation categories. Out of 874,000 votes cast, 51,056 were spoiled in the direct elections and 41,624 in proportional representation. The Baitadi and Kailali constituencies recorded the highest number of errors, primarily due to blank ballots, double stamping, and the use of thumbprints instead of official stamps. Acting Provincial Election Officer Prem Raj Bhatta noted that despite the high volume, the percentage of invalid votes has slightly decreased compared to previous elections. Over 25 parties contested the 16 seats in the province.

Invalid Votes Exceed 100,000 in Lumbini Province

Poor voter education resulted in 102,956 invalid votes in Lumbini Province during the March 5 elections. Despite the Lumbini Province Election Office deploying health volunteers for education, over 5% of the 2,021,961 cast votes were discarded. Rupandehi recorded the highest number of spoiled ballots, with 22,035 in the direct category and 16,727 in proportional representation. Common errors included multiple stamps, thumbprints instead of stamps, and blank papers. While mountainous districts like Rukum Purba saw only 563 invalid votes, the high numbers in the plains suggest that existing voter education programs failed to yield results.

Youth Candidates Dominate Election Results in Lumbini

In the March 5 elections, 11 out of 26 parliamentary seats in Lumbini Province were won by candidates under the age of 40. The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) claimed 10 of these youth victories, while the Nepali Congress took one. Notable winners include 34-year-old Sagar Dhakal, who defeated veterans in Gulmi-1, and 28-year-old Sulabh Kharel, who unseated former Deputy PM Bishnu Paudel in Rupandehi-2. Overall, RSP secured 21 seats in the province, signaling a major shift in the political landscape as young professionals and journalists successfully challenged established national leaders.

Partial Resumption of Flights to West Asia After 12-Day Suspension

Air travel to the West Asia region, suspended for 12 days, has partially resumed, officials confirmed. Santush Kumar Basnet, spokesperson for Tribhuvan International Airport, said international airlines have gradually restarted some flights over the past five days, depending on the situation. Flights were initially halted on February 28 due to safety concerns following the US-Iran conflict, with airlines in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and Bahrain closing their airspace. Basnet noted that updates about flight operations are often received only a day in advance, prompting partial operations. Airlines such as Air Arabia and Fly Dubai have resumed some services. Himalaya Airlines has also restarted partial flights to Dubai over the last four days, carrying roughly 100 passengers daily.

Nepal Airlines to Conduct Special Rescue Flight to Dubai

Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) will operate a special rescue flight to Dubai tonight to retrieve passengers stranded due to the US-Iran war. The wide-body aircraft, flight RA 229, is scheduled to depart Kathmandu at 11:15 PM tonight, carrying 270 to 280 passengers. The return flight, RA 230, is expected to land in Kathmandu on Thursday at 4:10 AM. Executive Director Amrit Man Shrestha stated that this is the first rescue flight in 12 days, prioritizing those who held tickets between February 28 and March 9. Passengers must re-verify their tickets with the corporation before boarding.

More Passengers Returning to Nepal from Middle East Amid Regional Tensions

More passengers have returned to Nepal from Middle Eastern countries than those departing over the past week, according to the Tribhuvan International Airport Office. The shift follows escalating tensions in the region after attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran and Iran’s retaliatory strikes, which have disrupted air travel. Since March 4, at least 3,649 passengers have arrived in Nepal from the Middle East, while 2,028 have departed. Airlines including Flydubai, Air Arabia, and Himalaya Airlines are operating limited flights to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai. Airport data show 23 flights during the period, while around 15 flights daily have been cancelled due to the conflict.

Protests Erupt in Birendranagar Demanding Justice for 16-Year-Old Inisha BK

Family and relatives of 16-year-old Inisha BK staged protests in Birendranagar on Wednesday, demanding a fair investigation into her death. Demonstrators marched through the city, chanting against rape and violence toward children. BK, a Grade 11 student from Gurbhakot Municipality-6, was found unconscious on March 7 in Janajagaran Community Forest near Sahid Park and later declared dead at Provincial Hospital, Kalagaun. Authorities have detained five suspects, including Anmol Gauli, and investigations are ongoing. Her family alleges she was raped before being killed. BK had reportedly left home that morning to attend practical classes.

Teenager Killed in Accidental Shooting in Dadeldhura

A 17-year-old boy, Subash Mahara of Baitadi, died on Monday evening after being struck by a bullet from a loaded muzzle-loading gun in Dadeldhura. The incident occurred at his sister’s house in Parashuram Municipality-2 while he and another teenager were posing for photos with the weapon. Police spokesperson Inspector Bhaskar Chand confirmed that Ganesh Bahadur Bohara, 44, and a 17-year-old witness have been detained for investigation. Bohara faces charges for illegally keeping a loaded firearm. Mahara was pronounced dead at Jogbudha Hospital shortly after the accidental discharge during the social gathering.

Japan Becomes Top Choice for Nepali Students Abroad

Japan has overtaken Australia as the most popular destination for Nepalis seeking higher education, particularly in management. In the first quarter of this fiscal year (July 17 to October 17), 9,453 students received No Objection Certificates (NOC) for Japan, followed by 7,730 for Australia and 4,611 for the UK. Last fiscal year (2024/25), a total of 123,589 students applied for NOCs for 84 countries, with 39,847 choosing Japan. The Ministry of Education recently updated its portal to help students verify the authenticity of foreign universities and colleges to prevent fraud and ensure academic quality.

32 Candidates in Morang Fail to Cross 50-Vote Mark

In the March 5 general elections, 32 out of 110 candidates in Morang failed to secure even 50 votes. Despite a total turnout of 555,014 voters across six constituencies, many independent and small-party candidates saw negligible support. Constituency 5 had the highest number of such candidates, with 10 individuals falling below the threshold, including Jayanarayan Sharma, who received only 3 votes. In contrast, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) swept all six seats in the district, with candidates like Rubina Acharya securing over 55,513 votes in Constituency 6.

Rabi Lamichhane Submits Election Expense Report of Nearly Rs 1 Million

Rabi Lamichhane, chairman of the Rashtriya Swatantra Party and House of Representatives candidate from Chitwan-2, has submitted his election expense report to the Election Commission Nepal, listing a total expenditure of Rs 989,987. According to the details provided, Rs 10,000 was spent on nomination registration, Rs 68,161 on printing sample ballot materials, and Rs 295,000 on transportation and fuel. Additional costs included Rs 14,200 for snacks during voter training programs, Rs 46,000 for the ward-level publicity, and Rs 112,000 for campaign flags and badges. The report also shows Rs 55,000 spent on banners and stickers, Rs 196,000 on food and rations, Rs 13,626 on air travel, and Rs 180,000 on seminars and gatherings. The expense report was submitted to the Commission on Tuesday by Sita Gyawali, chairperson of the party in Bharatpur Metropolitan City.

Shram Sanskriti Party Secures National Status with Three Seats

The newly formed Shram Sanskriti Party, led by Harka Raj Rai (Sampang), has officially become a national party after securing three direct seats and crossing the proportional representation threshold. In Sunsari-1, Rai won with 35,741 votes, while party candidates in Bhojpur and Khotang also secured victories. The party has garnered 347,785 proportional votes so far, joining RSP, Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), and RPP as recognized national entities. Following the win, Rai led a “Thanksgiving and Suggestion Rally” in Dharan, promising to integrate public feedback into his legislative agenda. The party was established just four months ago.

Supreme Court Orders Continuous Hearing on Lamichhane Case

The Supreme Court has ordered a continuous hearing starting March 14 regarding the controversial decision by Attorney General Sabita Bhandari to amend charges against RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane. A joint bench of Justices Sapna Pradhan Malla and Shree Kanta Paudel issued the order, noting the urgency of the writ filed by senior advocates, including Dinesh Tripathi. The petitions challenge the constitutionality of amending organized crime and money laundering charges, which was reportedly done under the direction of Prime Minister Sushila Karki despite internal objections from government attorneys.

Convicted Politician Rajiv Gurung Released from Prison

Rajeev Gurung, also known as Deepak Manange, was released from Dillibazar Prison on Wednesday. The former provincial lawmaker was convicted by the Supreme Court on November 5, 2024, for attempted murder in a 20-year-old case involving an attack on Chakre Milan. Although sentenced to 5 years, Gurung had already served 2 years and 8 months previously. Jailer Baburam Aryal confirmed his release after the Kathmandu District Court granted a 20% sentence reduction on March 7, 2025. Gurung completed his remaining term and left the facility after fulfilling his legal obligations.

Police Urge Caution as Air Pollution Hits Dangerous Levels

The police have issued a public safety advisory following a sharp rise in air pollution across Kathmandu and other major cities. Central Spokesperson DIG Abhi Narayan Kafle urged citizens to stay indoors unless necessary and avoid outdoor activities. The six-point advisory recommends wearing masks, avoiding waste burning, and sharing vehicles to reduce emissions. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, are advised to take extra precautions. As weather changes trap pollutants, the Ministry of Health and police are coordinating to warn of the severe health risks associated with the current atmospheric conditions.

Pokhara Mayor Requests Mahabir Pun to Cease Street Sales

Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya has requested Mahabir Pun, a newly elected independent lawmaker, to stop selling his books on city streets. Pun had announced plans to sell books at Chipledhunga and Birauta to fund his research center. While praising Pun’s mission, Mayor Acharya cited legal complexities regarding unlicensed sales and traffic congestion. He suggested that Pun partner with the Federation of Nepal Book and Stationery Business to distribute the books formally. The mayor emphasized that as a lawmaker responsible for policy, Pun should avoid unnecessary public disputes and follow the same municipal rules that apply to small sidewalk vendors.

Shram Sanskriti Party Dominates PR Votes in Ilam

The Shram Sanskriti Party, represented by the Soil symbol, emerged as the leading party in the proportional representation (PR) category in both constituencies of Ilam. In Ilam 1, the party secured 16,550 votes, outperforming the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which received 13,696, and the Nepali Congress, with 10,816. A similar trend was observed in Ilam 2, where the Shram Sanskriti Party led with 17,842 votes, followed by CPN (UML) with 16,462 and RSP with 13,341. This unexpected surge indicates significant support for the new political entity in the eastern district, traditionally a stronghold for established major parties.

Over 237,000 Girls Vaccinated Against Cervical Cancer

Nearly 240,000 teenage girls across Nepal received the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine during a government campaign held from February 8 to February 27. According to Dr. Abhiyan Gautam of the Child Health and Immunization Service Section, the total includes 215,314 regular students and 22,648 girls who missed previous rounds. While the campaign was successful in most regions, it was delayed in four Himalayan districts, like Dolpa, Humla, Jumla, and Manang, due to school vacations. These districts are scheduled to conduct their vaccination drives in mid-April.

Civil Service Hospital Extends Services to Dang District

The Civil Service Hospital in Minbhawan, Kathmandu, signed a formal agreement on Wednesday to extend medical services to the Rapti Academy of Health Sciences (RAHS) in Dang. Executive Director Prof. Dr. Mohan Chandra Regmi and Registrar Prof. Shyam Lamsal finalized the deal, which offers a 40% discount for active civil servants and up to 6 family members. Retired employees will receive a 50% discount on most services, excluding pharmacy and ambulance fees. The program, verified through the Civil Personnel Records (Nijamati Kitabkhana) network, is slated to officially commence on April 14.

Central Zoo Houses 1,273 Animals Across 112 Species

The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel, managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation, currently hosts 1,273 animals from 112 species. Established in 1932 by Rana PM Juddha Shumsher, the facility’s oldest resident is a 76-year-old elephant named Pawankali. Information Officer Ganesh Koirala noted that while animals like the 15-year-old tiger Bagoura and 14-year-old rhino Bange are thriving, some species show low breeding rates due to the artificial environment. To maintain health, sick animals are treated in quarantine, and small animals like mice are produced internally as feed for the zoo’s pythons.

Priyanka Karki Short Film ‘Button’ Releases on YouTube

Priyanka Karki and Ayushman Joshi have released their latest short film, Button (Takh), on YouTube. Directed by Samten Bhutia and shot by Joshi, the 14-minute film features Karki as a rural mother grieving her 7-year-old son lost in a flooded river. The story highlights the life-threatening reality of Tuins (wire crossings) in remote Nepal. Within 11 days of its release, the film has garnered over 400,000 views. While the project showcases Karki’s acting range, it also serves as a poignant social commentary on the government’s failed promises to replace hazardous river crossings.

Filming of Neer Bikram Shah’s ‘Kamala Miss’ Wraps After 23 Days

Filming of the psychological drama Kamala Miss, directed by veteran actor and filmmaker Neer Bikram Shah, concluded after a 23-day schedule that began on February 13 in the capital. Line producer Pushkar Lama confirmed that despite a three-day pause for elections, shooting finished on time. The film stars Shah alongside Ramesh Budhathoki, Basana Timilsina, Shivam Saraf Chhetri, Aarav Dahal, Bhawana Magar, Sushant Shrestha, Jayant Regmi, Suresh Thapa, Rajan KC, and Sanjay Khatiwada. Produced by Uma Malla for Bijay Malla Smriti Pratishthan, with Umesh Malla and Chaitanya Pradhan as executive producers, the project marks Shah’s return to directing after a decade. Release dates are yet to be announced.

Statue of Volleyball Captain Aruna Shahi Unveiled in Beni

A statue of Aruna Shahi, captain of the National Women’s Volleyball team, was unveiled in Beni on Wednesday by Mayor Surat KC. The District Sports Development Committee commissioned the Rs 900,000 statue to honor Shahi’s contribution to the sport, including leading Nepal to two AVC Central Zone golds and a historic victory over India. While currently housed at the committee’s hall, the statue will be permanently installed at a dedicated monument near Kalipul. Shahi, a native of Raghuganga-3, expressed gratitude, noting that such recognition motivates female athletes and promotes sports tourism in Myagdi.

Army and Goldengate Secure Wins in National Basketball

Tribhuvan Army Club and Goldengate International Club recorded opening victories in the Himalayan Java National Basketball League (HJNBL). In the inaugural match at Dasharath Stadium, Army defeated KVC Hounds 107–79, with Nischal Maharjan scoring a game-high 27 points and earning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title. In another match, Goldengate upset defending champions Times International Club with a score of 92–75. Nikesh Magar led Goldengate with 37 points and was named MVP. The league, organized by the Nepal Basketball Association (NeBA), features top domestic teams competing for the national title in Kathmandu.

NRT and Laligurans Play to Draw in National League

New Road Team (NRT) and Laligurans Association shared points after a 1-1 draw in the ANFA National League on Wednesday. Playing at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato, NRT took an early lead in the 26th minute through a goal by Anjan Bista. However, Laligurans managed to equalize in the final minute of the match (90th) with a goal from Ashish Gurung, salvaging a point. Following the result, Laligurans sits in fourth place with 20 points from 10 matches, while NRT holds sixth place with 19 points. The winner of the 13-team league will receive Rs 1.5 million.

Afghanistan–Sri Lanka Series Postponed Over Logistical Issues

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has postponed its bilateral series against Sri Lanka Cricket that was scheduled to begin on March 13 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), citing logistical challenges including flight constraints linked to the ongoing regional situation. The board said the series will now be rescheduled for the last quarter of 2026. The tour was set to include six white ball matches. Three T20 Internationals were planned at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on March 13, 15, and 17, followed by three One Day Internationals at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 20, 22, and 25. Preparations had been completed after approval from the Emirates Cricket Board, but unexpected developments in early March disrupted travel arrangements and operational planning. After consultations with stakeholders, including the Emirates Cricket Board, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and Dubai International Cricket Stadium, the decision was made to postpone the series. Officials said the preferred venue remains the UAE, and new dates will be announced after further coordination between the boards.

US-Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates Across Middle East

The US and Israel exchanged air strikes with Iran, extending the conflict into its 12th day, while Tehran warned its security forces were ready to confront anti-government protests. Attacks hit targets in Israel, Lebanon, and the Gulf, disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and affecting global energy markets. Iranian forces urged regional support to target US and Israeli positions. Millions in Israel sheltered as missiles were intercepted, while Iran faced internal crackdowns and arrests to prevent dissent. The conflict has killed over 1,300 Iranians, at least 11 in Israel, several in Lebanon, and seven US troops, with hundreds more wounded, highlighting rising regional instability.

Seoul Confirms Security Stability Despite US Military Shifts

The South Korean Defense Ministry assured on Wednesday that its defense capabilities remain intact despite reports of the US relocating military assets to the Middle East. Following reports that parts of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system might be moved from Seongju to address tensions with Iran, Seoul emphasized that the 28,500 US troops stationed in the country maintain sufficient deterrence against North Korea. While President Lee Jae Myung expressed slight dissatisfaction over the potential withdrawal of air defense hardware, military officials reiterated that the “hit-to-kill” security umbrella remains robust against potential nuclear or ballistic threats.

Pentagon Spends $5.6 Billion on Ammunition in Two Days

The Pentagon spent USD 5.6 billion on ammunition during the first two days of military strikes against Iran, according to three US officials. This rapid depletion of advanced weaponry, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and Patriot interceptors, has sparked concern among lawmakers regarding US military readiness. President Donald Trump suggested the campaign might conclude within a month, as US Central Command reported striking over 5,000 targets. To manage costs, the military is shifting toward cheaper laser-guided bombs. However, the redeployment of THAAD missile parts from South Korea to the Middle East has raised fears of security vulnerabilities in the Indo-Pacific and Ukraine regions.

Mojtaba Khamenei Reported Safe Amid War Injury Speculation

Yousef Pezeshkian, son of the Iranian president, confirmed on Wednesday that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is safe following reports of injuries. While state television previously referred to the 56-year-old as a “wounded veteran,” specific details regarding his condition were not disclosed. Khamenei succeeded his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, just three days ago but has yet to make a public appearance. Reports from the international media suggested he was injured during the initial wave of US and Israeli strikes. Despite the silence, government officials maintain that the leader is “sound” and actively managing state affairs.

Fuel Shortages and Violence Grip Asia Amid Middle East War

A severe fuel crisis triggered by the US-Israel-Iran war has forced Bangladesh to deploy the army to guard oil depots. With 95% of its fuel imported, the country faced violence after a 25-year-old man died in a clash over fuel in Jhenaidah, leading to the torching of three buses. Bangladesh has implemented fuel rationing and closed schools to save energy. Similar distress is visible in Vietnam, Pakistan, and Myanmar, where prices tripled. While global oil prices dipped slightly to USD 100 per barrel following statements from President Donald Trump, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to destabilize the market.

Middle East Tensions Disrupt Global Energy and Shipping

Escalating conflict in the Middle East has triggered severe disruptions in global energy supplies following renewed attacks between Israel and Iran on Wednesday. A container ship caught fire near the Oman coast in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route responsible for 20% of global oil transport. Additionally, Kuwait intercepted eight drones, while Saudi Arabia neutralized five drones targeting its Shaybah oil field. The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to vote on a proposal demanding an end to strikes targeting Arab neighbors and critical energy infrastructure.