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 Says Responsible Press Vital for Strengthening Democracy

President Ramchandra Paudel said a responsible and independent press is essential for strengthening Nepal’s democratic republic and addressing public aspirations for good governance, development, and prosperity. Speaking at a journalism award ceremony organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology at the President’s Office on Wednesday, he highlighted the role of Nepali media in political and social transformation and stressed the need to protect press freedom guaranteed by the constitution. He also called for safer working conditions and financial sustainability for journalists and media houses amid growing challenges posed by misinformation on social media. During the event, senior journalists and national journalism award recipients were also honored.

Constitutional Council Recommends Manoj Kumar Sharma as Chief Justice

The Constitutional Council has recommended Manoj Kumar Sharma for appointment as Nepal’s next chief justice. A meeting of the council held on Thursday endorsed Sharma’s name for the post. He is currently fourth in the seniority ranking within the judiciary. The recommendation now moves forward under the constitutional appointment process for the country’s top judicial position.

Police Make Public 3 Suspects Arrested for Kirtipur Murder

The Kathmandu District Police Range has publicly identified three individuals arrested in connection with a daylight murder in Kirtipur. According to SP Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, the suspects are Mahendra Shah, 25, Rabindra Dhami, 23, and Roshan Bista, 22. They are accused of using sharp weapons to kill Bipin Ghimire, 22, in Kirtipur Ward 10 yesterday. Following their arrest by a team from the Kirtipur Police Circle, the Kathmandu District Court granted a seven-day remand to further the investigation into the homicide. The motive behind the violent attack remains under investigation as police continue to gather forensic evidence from the crime scene.

Court Grants Bail to Ambika Basnet and 9 Others

The Kathmandu District Court has ordered the release of Ambika Basnet, wife of CPN (UML) Secretary Mahesh Basnet, and nine others on bail. Following a hearing on Thursday, Judge Mahendra Bahadur Karki set bail at Rs 50,000 each for Ambika Basnet and Sharmila Basnet. Eight other individuals, including Gita Pandit and Pragati Thapa, were granted bail at Rs 25,000 each. The group faced charges related to an attempted murder case filed by Januka Pathak. The court’s decision follows a review of the allegations and initial evidence presented during the judicial proceedings in the capital.

Anti-Graft Body Files Rs 3.62 Billion Corruption Case in Pokhara Airport Project

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority has filed a corruption case at the Special Court over alleged irregularities worth Rs 3.62 billion linked to Pokhara International Airport. The anti-graft body accused former finance minister Gyanendra Bahadur Karki, former government secretaries, senior officials, and executives of CAMC Engineering Company Limited of causing financial losses through improper tax exemptions granted to the contractor. According to the commission, the original contract required the Chinese company to pay taxes and customs duties, but a later implementation agreement waived those liabilities. The commission also alleged that collected taxes were not deposited into the state treasury, resulting in losses to the government and double benefits to the contractor.

Demolition Drive Displaces 15,361 Residents in Kathmandu Valley

The District Administration Office (DAO) in Kathmandu reported that 15,361 individuals were displaced during a seven-day demolition campaign targeting riverbank encroachments. Between April 25 and May 1, authorities dismantled 2,687 structures, including 890 permanent and 1,797 temporary dwellings, affecting 2,501 families. Major clearances occurred in Thapathali, Manohara, Balkhu, and Banshighat. In Balkhu alone, 4,810 people were displaced, while the Manohara operation affected 1,556 residents. The DAO noted that data for Bhaktapur areas is not included in this count. The government continues to reclaim public land along the capital’s waterways despite the significant humanitarian impact on the resident families.

Federal Parliament Moves to Electronic Attendance via Biometrics

The collection of biometric details of Federal Parliament members has officially begun. Starting Thursday, the process was launched to digitally record attendance in the meetings of both the House of Representatives and the National Assembly. According to the Federal Parliament Secretariat, biometric data collection has already been completed for lawmakers serving in several thematic committees, including International Relations and Tourism, Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance, Economy, and Legislation Management Committees. Similarly, the collection process is currently underway for members of the Industry, Commerce and Labour, Consumer Welfare, as well as Law, Justice and Human Rights Committees. The Secretariat stated that the initiative is part of efforts to modernize parliamentary attendance tracking through electronic systems.

Foreign Minister Khanal Holds Separate Talks With UNICEF, SAARC Officials

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal held separate courtesy meetings in Kathmandu on Thursday with UNICEF South Asia Regional Director Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF Nepal Representative Alice Akunga, and South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Secretary General Md. Golam Sarwar. Discussions with UNICEF officials focused on ongoing cooperation in child welfare, health, education, water, sanitation and hygiene, along with future collaboration to improve services for children and vulnerable communities in Nepal. During the meeting with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation chief, both sides discussed strengthening regional cooperation and issues of mutual interest.

Health Ministry Appoints Acting Chiefs

The Ministry of Health and Population has appointed acting heads to various health institutions to prevent service disruptions following the recent Ordinance on the Removal of Public Officials. To ensure that patient care, daily administration, and essential medical services remain operational, the ministry selected temporary leaders based on seniority and merit. Officials stated this is a short-term arrangement while the government prepares for a transparent, competitive selection process to appoint permanent, high-quality leadership. The ministry emphasized that there will be no compromise on the quality of health services or institutional reform during this transitional period. Permanent recruitment is expected to begin shortly through open competition for the vacant executive roles.

Interpol Requests More Details on Red Corner Notice for Deuba Couple

Interpol Headquarters in Lyon, France, has requested additional information from the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Kathmandu regarding a Red Corner Notice for Sher Bahadur Deuba and Arzu Rana Deuba. The request follows an investigation by the Department of Money Laundering Investigation into funds allegedly discovered after a fire at their Budhanilkantha residence on September 9, 2025. While the Kathmandu District Court granted arrest permission, Interpol is seeking further clarification on the underlying crimes associated with the money laundering charges. The couple is currently in Hong Kong for medical treatment and has not yet returned to Nepal to face the ongoing investigation.

India Commits to Consistent Supply of Fertilizers and Petroleum to Nepal

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to the “multifaceted” relationship with Nepal by ensuring the continuous supply of petroleum products and chemical fertilizers. During a weekly briefing on Thursday, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that fuel deliveries would continue under the existing agreement between the Nepal Oil Corporation and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Regarding fertilizers, Jaiswal highlighted the importance of the government-to-government agreement to meet Nepal’s agricultural needs. He emphasized that the import-export process remains steady, reflecting strong strategic and commercial cooperation between the two neighboring nations despite fluctuating market demands.

Jagdish Kharel Says ‘Baseless Reports’ Aimed at Damaging His Political Career

Jagdish Kharel, a lawmaker from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and former Minister for Communication, has claimed that he is being subjected to a “media trial” after his name was linked to what he described as “fake news” circulated by some media outlets and social media platforms. In a Facebook post on Thursday, Kharel said misleading and fabricated information was being deliberately spread to damage his character and political future. “Some media outlets and social media platforms have intentionally spread fake news by linking my name to the matter. Please do not be misled,” he wrote. Kharel said he is currently in Switzerland for official programs and insisted that he had done nothing wrong. “I have not committed any wrongdoing, so I am not afraid at all. Anyone may investigate or ask questions, but the truth will remain the truth,” he stated. Kharel also said he would seek legal remedies against those spreading what he called false and baseless allegations.

Chyasal-Based CPN (UML) Party Office to be Relocated

Following a directive from the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, the CPN (UML) party office at Chyasal in Lalitpur is set to be relocated. The ministry issued a public notice asking for the evacuation of land under leasehold rights along with structures built on it, prompting the UML to prepare for shifting its office from the site. UML Secretary Padma Aryal said the party is making necessary arrangements to move the office. The UML has been using 6,341.12 square meters of land under the name of the Tulsilal Amatya Memorial Foundation, following approval by the Council of Ministers in March 2002. The land has been in its possession for use and occupation since then.

Nepali Congress Schedules Seven Provincial Gatherings for May and June

The Nepali Congress has announced a schedule for provincial-level gatherings across all seven provinces to strengthen local and provincial party structures. According to the Central Policy, Research, and Training Academy, the first session will occur in Dhangadhi, Sudurpaschim Province, on May 9 and 10. Subsequent meetings are set for Surkhet on May 11 and 12, Pokhara on May 14 and 15, and Dhulikhel on May 18 and 19. The final gatherings will take place in Bardibas on May 20 and 21, Lauki on May 22 and 23, and Tilottama on May 28 and 29. These meetings, coordinated by Vice President Bishwa Prakash Sharma, aim to finalize regional strategies and conduct training for party cadres ahead of upcoming local engagements.

Rastriya Janamorcha Urges Internationalization of Lipulekh Territory Dispute

Chitra Bahadur KC, chairman of Rastriya Janamorcha, has called on the government to bring the Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura border issue to the United Nations. In a statement issued Thursday, he criticized India and China for their bilateral agreement to use Lipulekh as a trade pass without Nepal’s consent. KC described China’s recent map showing the area within Indian borders as an “unfriendly act” that contradicts the 1960 border treaty. He further condemned the government’s recent Constitutional Council ordinance as fascist and autocratic, asserting that allowing decisions by only three members undermines democratic principles and leads toward authoritarianism.

Two Indian Trekkers Rescued After Being Stranded in Mustang Snowfall

Two Indian trekkers stranded in snowfall have been safely rescued, officials said. The duo, who were travelling from Manang towards Mustang via the Thorong La Pass, were rescued on Wednesday evening by a joint team of the Nepal Army and Nepal Police. Heavy snowfall was reported on Wednesday afternoon around the Muktinath area in Baragung Muktikshhetra-1 and the Thorong La Pass region. The trekkers, identified as 29-year-old Phanik Toni and 30-year-old Mitra Bindu from Kerala, India, were stranded at a location called Chisapani in Baragung Muktikshhetra-2 after losing the trail due to snowfall. According to the Nepal Army’s Indra Baks Battalion, the rescue operation was carried out successfully after the team located them around 8 PM near the lower section of Thorong Pass, close to the Drum Camp area. Earlier, Bindu had informed the Mustang District Police Office that the two were unable to find their way along the Round Annapurna trekking route due to heavy snow conditions. Officials confirmed that both trekkers were brought to safety without injuries.

Committee Identifies 82 Major Debtors with Multi-Institutional Cooperative Loans

The Problematic Cooperative Management Committee has publicly named 82 large-scale debtors from 10 distressed cooperatives who have failed to settle their loans. Investigations revealed that several individuals, including Gyan Bahadur Tamang, took multiple loans from different entities such as Tapaiko Hamro, Ghedung, and Ideal Yamuna Multipurpose Cooperative. Other prominent debtors like Ram Prasad Paudel and Ashok Kumar Agrawal reportedly held multiple loans within a single institution. The committee is adopting a strict recovery stance to prioritize the refund of savings to small depositors. Debtors are instructed to settle their arrears immediately at the committee office to avoid further legal consequences and asset seizures under cooperative regulations.

Second South Asian Trade Fair 2026 Begins in Kathmandu

The Second South Asian Trade Fair 2026 opened at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, on Thursday, featuring entrepreneurs from all eight SAARC nations. Organized by Introduction Trade Shows Nepal in partnership with the Bangladesh Export Promotion Bureau, the event was inaugurated by various ambassadors and industrial leaders. The fair, which runs until May 11, showcases handicrafts, indigenous food, garments, and electric vehicles across multiple national pavilions. Organizers expect over 5,000 entrepreneurs and 100,000 local visitors. The exhibition serves to promote exportable goods, strengthen regional trade ties, and facilitate direct interaction between buyers and sellers from across South Asia.

Anjan Shrestha Assumes Office as FNCCI President

Anjan Shrestha has formally taken charge as the president of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). He assumed office during a ceremony held at the FNCCI central office on Thursday. Outgoing president Chandra Dhakal handed over the leadership responsibilities. Along with Shrestha, newly elected office bearers also took charge of their respective roles. After assuming office, President Shrestha said he would continue dialogue and cooperation with the government to create an environment that boosts confidence in the private sector.

5 New Films Including 3 Nepali Titles to Release Tomorrow

Cinema halls across Nepal will see a surge in activity as five new movies, including three Nepali productions, are set for release tomorrow, Friday. The Nepali titles Malati Mangale, Lalibazar, and Guru Aama will debut alongside Bollywood’s Krishnavataram Part 1 and Hollywood’s Mortal Kombat Part 2. Following a court order that cleared the way for its screening, Lalibazar, starring Swastima Khadka, has secured 120 shows. Malati Mangale, featuring Bijay Baral and Barsha Raut, follows with 103 shows. Theater owners expect the high volume of releases to revitalize the box office, which is currently seeing strong performance from the existing film Paral Ko Aago.

Superhit Film ‘Pujar Sarki’ Released on YouTube

The 2024 blockbuster Pujar Sarki has been released on YouTube nearly two years after its successful theatrical run. Starring Aryan Sigdel, Pradeep Khadka, Paul Shah, Anjana Baraili, and Parikshya Limbu, the socially themed film had earned more than Rs 73.8 million at the box office and received a strong response from audiences during its cinema release. Directed by Dinesh Raut and produced by Subas Bhusal, the film was written by Bikash Subedi. The production team said the film was released digitally in response to audience demand. It is now available on the OSR Movies YouTube channel.

Nepal ‘A’ Secures 45-Run Victory Over Scotland in Practice Series

The Nepal ‘A’ national cricket team began its practice series with a 45-run win over Scotland at the Upper Mulpani Grounds on Thursday. Batting first, Nepal posted 277 runs for 8 wickets, led by Dev Khanal’s 63 runs and Mayan Yadav’s 45. Despite a strong opening partnership of 87 runs by Scotland, the visiting side was bowled out for 232 in 48.2 overs. Rashid Khan was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets, while Shahak Alam and Bashir Ahmed took 2 each. This series serves as vital preparation ahead of the ICC World Cup League-2 matches involving Nepal, Scotland, and the United States.

CAN Board Members File Complaint to NSC Over Financial Irregularities

Nine members of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), including Vice President Roshan Singh, have filed a formal complaint with the National Sports Council (NSC) regarding financial and administrative irregularities. The petition, submitted on May 4, alleges that CAN leadership has withheld audit reports and income details related to the first and second seasons of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). The members claim that board meetings have been bypassed and that financial data was sent to the ICC without formal board approval. They are demanding a high-level, independent investigation under the National Sports Development Act, 2020, to ensure transparency and accountability within the association’s management.

Bangladesh Announces 23-Member Squad for 8th Women’s SAFF Championship

Bangladesh has announced a 23-member squad, captained by Afeida Khandakar, for the 8th Women’s SAFF Championship to be held in Goa, India, from May 25 to June 6. The defending champions will undergo a 15-day special training camp in Thailand before the tournament begins. The squad includes key players such as Rupna Chakma, Maria Manda, and Ritu Porna Chakma. Meanwhile, the Nepali national team began its practice sessions in Kathmandu four days ago, aiming for a stronger performance after losing to Bangladesh in the final of the previous edition. This year’s championship is expected to be a highly competitive regional event between the top South Asian teams.

United States Court Unseals Purported Jeffrey Epstein Suicide Note

A United States judge has ordered the release of a document believed to be a suicide note written by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein shortly before his death in prison in 2019. The handwritten note surfaced during criminal proceedings involving Epstein’s former cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione, who claimed he found it hidden inside a book after Epstein’s earlier suicide attempt. The court ruled there was sufficient public interest to unseal the document after prosecutors and media organizations argued continued secrecy was unnecessary. United States authorities have not verified the authenticity of the note. Epstein died in jail while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges, with authorities ruling his death a suicide.

Israeli Strike Kills Son of Hamas Negotiator Amid Gaza Talks

An Israeli airstrike has killed the son of senior Hamas negotiator Khalil Al-Hayya as negotiations over Gaza’s future continue in Cairo. Hamas officials said Azzam Al-Hayya died from injuries sustained in a strike in Gaza, becoming the fourth son of the Hamas leader killed in Israeli attacks over the years. The killing came as Hamas and regional mediators discussed implementation of the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction plan. Hamas accused Israel of attempting to pressure negotiators through targeted strikes, while Israel continued attacks it says are aimed at preventing militant operations during the fragile truce period.

US-Iran Edge Toward Temporary Deal as Markets Rally

The United States and Iran are moving closer to a temporary agreement aimed at halting the war and easing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to officials and mediation sources. The proposed framework focuses on a short-term arrangement rather than a comprehensive peace deal, leaving major disputes over Iran’s nuclear program unresolved. Reports of progress pushed oil prices lower and lifted global stock markets on expectations that energy supply disruptions could ease. The plan reportedly includes formally ending hostilities, reopening negotiations on maritime security, and launching a 30-day window for broader talks, while both sides remain cautious over unresolved political and military demands.