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.

President Paudel Hosts Reception to Mark Successful General Elections

President Ram Chandra Paudel addressed a reception hosted by the Election Commission at Bahadur Bhawan on Wednesday, following the completion of the general elections. He stated that the public mandate has placed a significant responsibility on elected representatives to ensure social justice, good governance, and prosperity. The president praised the commission for implementing the “Green Election” concept and maintaining transparency and frugality. He noted that the peaceful conduct of the House of Representatives election has strengthened the federal democratic republic and earned international acclaim, urging all political actors to work together toward the shared goal of nation-building.

PM Sushila Karki Praises Election Commission’s Standards

Prime Minister Sushila Karki emphasized the importance of maintaining the high electoral standards set during the 2026 House of Representatives elections for future polls. Speaking at a reception on Wednesday, she noted that the election was completed peacefully without the need for re-polling at any station. The Prime Minister, who took office on September 8 and 9, 2025, during a period of legal and political vacuum, credited the commission’s determination for successfully navigating security sensitivities. She highlighted that approximately 1 million young voters participated enthusiastically under new ordinances, enhancing Nepal’s international image and democratic values.

Nepali Citizen Killed in Malaysia

Ved Bahadur Budha, 29, from Kapurkot-3, Salyan, was murdered in Malaysia on Sunday night, March 22. The suspect, Chopilal Dangi, 25, from Gangadev-3, Rolpa, allegedly stabbed Budha following a drunken dispute in their shared residential building. Budha, who had been working in Malaysia for two years, died shortly after being taken to a hospital. Malaysian police have arrested Dangi and detained eight other Nepali nationals for investigation. The body is currently held for a post-mortem examination, after which the process to return it to his family, who now reside in Dang, will begin.

Arjun Narsingh KC Sworn in, Set to Administer Oath to New MPs

The senior-most member of the House of Representatives, Arjun Narsingh KC, has taken the oath of office and secrecy. President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath to Member of Parliament (MP) KC during a ceremony organized at Shital Niwas. KC is the senior-most member among those elected in the House of Representatives member election held on March 5. A program has been scheduled for the senior-most member KC to administer the oath of office and secrecy to the elected members of the House of Representatives on Thursday. In the House of Representatives election, 165 members were elected through the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system and 110 members through the proportional representation (PR) system. KC is an MP elected through the proportional representation system, representing the Nepali Congress.

Acting Chief Commissioner Highlights Challenges in Holding Elections

Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari stated that the Election Commission successfully conducted the House of Representatives elections despite significant complexities and obstacles. Speaking at a reception on Wednesday, he noted that the commission managed everything from voter registration to final reporting within a six-month period. He highlighted the use of online systems and the integration of national ID data to enroll a large number of young voters after a presidential ordinance was issued. Bhandari credited the professionalism of the staff and cooperation from stakeholders for completing the process peacefully and within the planned schedule following the September 2025 unrest.

General Sigdel Details Military Role During September 2025 Unrest

Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel clarified to an inquiry commission that the army acted within constitutional limits during the September 8 and 9, 2025, Gen Z protests. He revealed that on the morning of September 9, he offered the prime minister two options: a political resignation to prevent bloodshed or full military mobilization following constitutional procedures. Sigdel noted that although the army suggested a curfew at 5:00 AM, the administration only declared it at 8:30 AM, by which time crowds had already gathered. The army successfully protected vital installations, including the National Data Center and Tribhuwan International Airport, using 46 rounds of celebratory fire to disperse crowds without causing significant casualties.

Department of Transport Proposes 11.33 Percent Fare Hike

The Department of Transport Management has recommended a fare increase for public transport to the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport. Based on the “scientific fare adjustment system” and recent fuel price hikes, the department proposed an 11.33 percent increase for passenger vehicles. Additionally, freight transport on hilly roads is proposed to rise by 14.29 percent, while Terai freight rates would increase by 8.81 percent. This follows the Nepal Oil Corporation’s decision on March 16 to raise diesel by Rs 10 and petrol by Rs 15 per liter. Transport entrepreneurs have urged the immediate implementation of these rates, citing rising operational costs.

21 Foreign Women Arrested in Thamel for Obscene Activities

Police have arrested 21 foreign women, including 20 Ugandans, for engaging in immoral and indecent activities in the Thamel area. Authorities said the women were apprehended near Phirechowk, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-26, after allegedly obstructing pathways for tourists and locals and soliciting obscene activities, causing public disturbance. The District Police Range confirmed that the women are in custody, with a 12-day remand (judicial custody) granted by the District Administration Office, Kathmandu, while investigations are ongoing.

Rabi Lamichhane Denies Involvement in September 9 Unrest

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane’s statement to the commission of inquiry revealed that he denied any involvement in the violent events of September 9, 2025. Lamichhane testified that he did not escape from Nakkhu Jail but was forced out by a crowd under the direction of prison administration for safety reasons. He claimed he addressed the crowd from a nearby restaurant balcony, urging them to remain peaceful and protect public property. He maintained that neither he nor the RSP played any role in the violence and committed to taking action against any party members found involved, while suggesting reforms like the open prison policy.

Nepali Congress to Hold 15th General Convention in October

The Central Working Committee of the Nepali Congress has decided to hold its 15th General Convention from October 2 to 5. The decision was finalized during a meeting on Wednesday, according to central member Dinesh Sunar. While the main convention is set for October, ward-level conventions are scheduled to begin in September. The party leadership revised the initial proposal of a September convention to allow more time for internal preparations and logistical arrangements across all levels of the party organization nationwide.

U.S. Envoy Sergio Gor Congratulates Rabi Lamichhane on Election Win

Sergio Gor, the United States Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, telephoned Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane on Tuesday to congratulate him on his electoral victory. According to the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, Washington is eager to collaborate with the new government to strengthen economic partnerships and deepen bilateral friendship. In the House of Representatives elections held on March 5, the RSP secured a total of 182 seats, including 125 direct seats and 57 proportional representation seats, out of the 275 total seats.

Karnali Government Urges Local Units to Report on Martyr Stipends

The Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers of Karnali Province has directed local units to submit reports regarding the martyr memorial and subsistence allowances. The directive requires the submission of distribution reports for the period from July 17, 2025, to January 14, 2026, by March 29, 2026. Section Officer Laxmi Kandel stated that local units must also verify applications for beneficiaries eligible from mid-February to mid-July. These stipends are provided to families of martyrs and those disappeared or injured during the armed struggle and people’s movements under the 2026 working procedures.

Nearly 150K Cases Pending in Nepal’s Courts

Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut submitted the 2024/25 annual report to President Ram Chandra Paudel on Wednesday, revealing that 149,560 cases remain pending across the country. The report shows that 24,107 of these cases are at the Supreme Court, which saw a 7 percent increase in case settlements compared to the previous year. However, enforcement remains weak, with Rs 31.839 billion in fines and 121,156 years of imprisonment yet to be realized. The report also cited service disruptions following the September 8 and 9, 2025, unrest, which damaged 22 court buildings.

Medical Council Directs Doctors to Use Certificates Only at Active Workplaces

The Nepal Medical Council (NMC) has issued a directive to registered doctors to use their registration certificates only at healthcare institutions where they are actively working. Registrar Dr. Satish Kumar Dev stated that using NMC certificates at clinics or hospitals where a doctor is not present creates public confusion and violates professional ethics. The council warned that such practices mislead patients and could lead to legal or administrative complications. Doctors are instructed to immediately remove their names, certificates, and registration numbers from former workplaces and signage. The council emphasized the need for regular monitoring of advertisements and registration books to maintain professional integrity and trust.

Surgical Services Halted at Sindhuli Hospital Due to Doctor Shortage

All surgical services at Sindhuli Hospital, the largest health institution in the district, have been suspended for one and a half months due to a lack of anesthesiologists. Although the hospital has two sanctioned positions for anesthesiologists, both are currently vacant, leaving specialist surgeons unable to perform deliveries, orthopedic, or appendicitis surgeries. Hospital Development Committee Chairman Shatash Chandra Dhakal reported that the issue began after a contract doctor was transferred to Lamjung. Despite advertising the positions four times and the Ministry of Health transferring Dr. Kushal Ranjit to the facility on March 11, no doctor has yet reported for duty, forcing patients to seek expensive treatment elsewhere.

51 Nepalis Rescued from Illegal Centers in Cambodia

Fifty-one Nepalese citizens lured into illegal online scamming centers and casinos in Cambodia have been rescued and returned to Nepal. The rescue was coordinated by the Nepalese Embassy in Bangkok and the Cambodian government, with facilitation from the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Cambodia. Many victims reported that their passports were confiscated by employers or lost during transfers between centers. Data shows a sharp rise in Nepalis traveling to Cambodia, from 1,977 in 2022 to 9,676 in 2025. The embassy urged citizens to avoid traveling on tourist visas for employment and to only go abroad with valid labor permits.

Trap Cameras Installed in Dhanusha to Mitigate Forest Fire Risks

The Mithila Wildlife Trust Dhanusha has installed 12 trap cameras within the Bhatighari Community Forest to combat the increasing risk of wildfires during the dry season. Trust Chairman Dev Narayan Mandal stated that the cameras were strategically placed to ensure early detection of fires and to monitor wildlife activities. This initiative is expected to enhance forest security and support conservation efforts as high temperatures raise the likelihood of blazes. Additionally, the Division Forest Office Dhanusha, led by Divisional Chief Binod Singh, has provided the community forest committee with specialized protective gear and iron tools specifically designed for fire control.

Karnali Province to Form Ten-Year Education Plan for 2026–2036

The Ministry of Social Development of Karnali Province is developing a ten-year education plan covering the academic years 2025/26 to 2034/35. Division Chief Subarna Khadka announced that the plan aims to upgrade Karnali from an underdeveloped to a developing province through quality education and skilled human resource production. Minister Ghanshyam Bhandari emphasized that the strategy will prioritize budget allocation for educational infrastructure and technology-friendly learning environments over the next decade. The plan focuses on implementing constitutional fundamental rights, promoting vocational training, and ensuring an economy based on knowledge and a skill-oriented society for the province’s long-term prosperity.

Fire Controlled at Purbanchal Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor in Itahari

A fire that broke out at Purbanchal Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor in Itahari-6, Sunsari, on Wednesday morning, March 25, was brought under control. Deputy Superintendent of Police Subas Hamal reported that the fire originated in the cafe’s kitchen and was contained by security personnel and locals using fire engines from Dharan, Biratnagar, and Inaruwa. No human casualties occurred as the establishment was closed at the time of the incident. While the extent of the property damage and the exact cause of the fire are still being investigated, the swift response prevented the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings.

Captain Samba Undergoes Successful Knee Surgery in Auckland

Sabitra Bhandari (Samba), the captain of Nepal’s national women’s football team, underwent successful knee surgery in Auckland, New Zealand, on Wednesday. Dr. Simon and his team performed the procedure to repair a torn ACL graft sustained three months ago while playing for Wellington Phoenix against Brisbane Roar. Bhandari, popularly known as “Samba,” is expected to remain off the field for 9 to 12 months for rehabilitation. After failing to receive expected financial support from the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), she had successfully appealed to her supporters via social media to cover the significant medical costs.

Karnali Defeats Koshi by 16 Runs in PM Cup National Cricket

Karnali Province secured a 16-run victory over Koshi Province in the Prime Minister Cup One-Day National Cricket Tournament in Janakpur on Wednesday. Defending a target of 152, Karnali bowled out Koshi for 135 in 44.4 overs, with Dinesh Adhikari taking 5 wickets. Earlier, Bipin Shahi scored 63 to help Karnali reach 151. In another match in Birgunj, Madhesh Province defeated Sudurpashchim Province by 5 wickets. Arniko Yadav shone for Madhesh, taking 3 wickets and scoring an unbeaten 46 runs to successfully chase a target of 161 in 33.4 overs.

Eight Nepali Cricketers to Feature in Belgium’s T20 League

Eight Nepali cricketers have secured spots in the European T20 League scheduled to take place in Belgium from June 6 to June 14. During the draft held on Tuesday night, March 25, the JB Bruges team signed five players: Lalit Rajbanshi, Ishan Pandey, Anil Sah, and Gulshan Jha, joining Dipendra Singh Airee, who was previously contracted. Furthermore, Captain Rohit Paudel joined the Ghent Gladiators, Aasif Sheikh joined the Antwerp Anchors, and Sandeep Lamichhane was signed by the Liege Red Lions. This marks the first international league appearance for Lalit, Anil, Ishan, Gulshan, and Aasif.

Russian Film Days to Showcase Five Films at NIFF 2026

The ninth edition of the Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) will feature five Russian films under the “Russian Film Days Nepal 2026” program. Chairman KP Pathak announced that the screenings, scheduled from April 2 to April 6, coincide with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia. Featured films include August, The Challenge, The Dino Family, and All Wrong Girl, which will be screened at Russian House on April 4. Additionally, the film The Poet, a biographical work about Alexander Pushkin directed by Felix Umarov, will be shown at Chhaya Center on April 6.

Hit Film ‘Hostel 3’ Set for Digital Release on YouTube

The blockbuster film Hostel 3, which saw success in theaters last year, is scheduled for a digital release on YouTube this Friday. The movie will be available on the Budhasubba Digital channel. Directed by Sashan Kandel, the film explores themes of college life, friendship, and youth struggles. The cast features a new generation of actors, including Paras Bam Thakuri, Rihan Giri, Padam Tamang, Ashish Ghimire, Simran Pant, Hena Nagarkoti, and Sama Parajuli. The digital launch comes exactly one year after its initial theatrical run, during which it performed exceptionally well at the box office.

Jetstar New Zealand Cancels Flights Due to Rising Fuel Costs

Jetstar New Zealand has cancelled several domestic and trans-Tasman flights between Australia and New Zealand due to surging aviation fuel prices caused by the Middle East conflict. The airline announced that 12 percent of its May flights will be affected, specifically impacting routes between Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Sydney, and Brisbane. A company spokesperson apologized for the inconvenience, stating that rising operational costs necessitated temporary schedule adjustments. Most affected passengers have been offered alternative flights on the same day as the airline manages the economic impact of the regional instability.

Taliban Government Releases American Researcher Dennis Coyal

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has released American researcher and language expert Dennis Coyal after more than one year in detention. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Supreme Court approved his release following a petition from his family to the Supreme Leader on the occasion of Eid. Coyal, 64, was arrested in January 2025 while conducting academic research. The release was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, and Coyal reunited with his family in Kabul on Tuesday. This follows a 2025 “goodwill gesture” where the Taliban released five other American citizens.

Hormuz Blockade Threatens 50% of Global Food Supply

The ongoing Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway only 21 miles wide, has halted the transport of fertilizers essential for half of the world’s food production. The Gulf region accounts for 49 percent of global urea and 30 percent of ammonia exports. With the Northern Hemisphere entering the critical four-week window for nitrogen application, the disruption is forcing farmers to switch from corn to crops like soybeans that require less nitrogen. Experts warn that if the blockade continues for four weeks, the resulting food price hikes of 30 to 40 percent could trigger political instability in vulnerable nations within 6 to 18 months.

United States Proposes 15-Point Ceasefire to Iran via Pakistan

The United States government has introduced a 15-point ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Iran. This proposal was reportedly delivered through Pakistan, signaling a potential mediation role to restart diplomatic dialogue. Despite these efforts, the United States is simultaneously strengthening its military presence in the Middle East, preparing to send 1,000 additional troops to join the 50,000 already stationed in the region. While Washington indicates that talks are progressing, Iran has denied any formal negotiations, highlighting deep-seated mistrust. Tensions remain centered on the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian control has disrupted international trade and surged global fuel prices.