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 Issues Third Money Laundering Ordinance

President Ram Chandra Paudel on Friday promulgated the ‘Money Laundering Prevention Third Amendment Ordinance 2026,’ introducing fresh legal provisions related to anti-money laundering measures. The ordinance was issued under Article 114(1) of the Constitution following a recommendation from the Council of Ministers. Officials said this marks the third ordinance issued by President Paudel, as the government continues to bring legal changes through ordinance provisions in the absence of parliamentary passage.

Prime Minister Balen Shah Wishes Peace on Buddha Jayanti

Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) extended “wisdom-filled” greetings for world peace on the occasion of the 2570th Buddha Jayanti. In a social media message on Friday, he described Buddha’s path as one of ending suffering through the realization of the “Four Noble Truths.” He emphasized that a true revolution begins with knowledge (Gya), rather than just the beginning of the alphabet (Ka). Invoking the famous teaching “Appo Deepo Bhava” (Be your own light), he noted that Nepal, as the birthplace of Buddha, remains a land of non-violence and peace. He stressed that just as light dispels darkness, the pursuit of knowledge should guide the nation’s journey toward solving its modern problems.

Health Ministry Made Public the List of Injured Gen Z Protesters

The Ministry of Health and Population has completed the official list of individuals injured during the Gen Z protests. Following the inclusion of 22 additional names, the total count of verified injured persons has reached 2,660. These latest additions were verified from hospital records dated September 8 and 9, 2025, across 99 hospitals nationwide. The Health Emergency Operation Center confirmed that the verified list has been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Under government policy, those officially listed as injured during the movement are eligible for specific benefits, including educational quotas, employment opportunities, and medical treatment support. This completion marks a final step in the administrative documentation of the activists impacted during the protests.

Government to Halt Demolition Until Resettlement is Guaranteed

Following widespread protests and the removal of 3,500 families from Kathmandu’s riverbanks, the government has announced it will stop further evictions until “genuine” landless squatters are identified and resettled. The Ministry of Home Affairs had previously issued a circular to all 77 districts to identify encroached public land, sparking national fear. However, a clarification issued yesterday stated that recent actions in Thapathali and Manohara were specifically aimed at high-risk flood zones for humanitarian safety. The Ministry of Federal Affairs has now directed local levels to create solid management plans first. Government officials assured that the protection of public property and the respectful relocation of actual landless squatters would now proceed in a balanced, humane manner.

Additional 280 Displaced Families Register for Resettlement

An additional 280 families displaced by the government’s demolition of squatter settlements in Balkhu, Banshighat, Shankhamul, and Manohara registered their names on Friday. This brings the total number of families seeking relocation assistance to 1,494. According to the Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization, 17 families consisting of 41 members have already been moved to a temporary shelter at the Electricity Training Center in Kharipati, Bhaktapur. The committee is currently working on managing the remaining families who lost their homes during the recent “dozer” campaign. The registration process aims to categorize the displaced households to facilitate organized temporary housing and eventual resettlement as per the government’s newly announced humane management policy.

US Envoy Sergio Gor Meets Ministers, Focuses on Trade, Investment, and Development

Sergio Gor, special envoy of United States President Donald Trump for South and Central Asia, held separate meetings with senior Nepali leaders in Kathmandu on Friday, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties. During talks with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, discussions centered on expanding trade and advancing projects under the Millennium Challenge Corporation, with both sides describing the engagement as constructive. Gor also met Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle, where talks focused on economic partnership, development assistance, and investment opportunities. The two sides reviewed ongoing US support for Nepal’s development and explored avenues for deeper cooperation. The envoy arrived in Kathmandu on Thursday for an official visit aimed at strengthening economic and strategic engagement between the two countries.

Paudel Takes Charge as APF Chief, Aryal Bids Farewell

A leadership transition has taken place at the Armed Police Force Nepal, with outgoing Inspector General Raju Aryal handing over command to newly appointed chief Narayan Dutta Paudel. The changeover was marked by a formal ceremony at the force headquarters in Halchowk, where Aryal received a ceremonial farewell. Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted national security as a key priority and emphasized the role of the force in maintaining public trust and deterring crime. Taking charge, Paudel pledged to strengthen institutional values and steer the force toward modernization and greater public accountability. He underscored commitments to good governance, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption, while acknowledging Aryal’s contributions and guidance. Senior officials, former chiefs, and APF personnel attended the ceremony.

3 Major Welfare Programs Announced for Labor Day

On the 137th International Labor Day, the Minister for Labor, Employment, and Social Security announced three landmark initiatives. The first is a five-year National Occupational Safety and Health Program to ensure worker safety. Second, labor attaches at Nepali embassies will hold weekly Facebook Live sessions to assist migrant workers directly. Third, workers registered with the Social Security Fund can now access land purchase loans at a 6 percent interest rate, with a borrowing limit of Rs 15 million. The government reaffirmed its commitment to providing dignified work environments and fair wages for all professions, ranging from construction workers and farmers to doctors and engineers, emphasizing that labor is the foundation of national development.

Medical Council Cancels Licenses of 19 Doctors

The Nepal Medical Council (NMC) has revoked the registration and licenses of 19 doctors who renounced their Nepali citizenship. According to the NMC Registrar, these individuals acquired foreign passports from countries including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, and India. The decision was made in accordance with the Nepal Medical Council Act, 1964, and the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2006. Names have been officially removed from the council’s register to ensure that only eligible citizens or authorized individuals practice medicine in the country. This follows a similar previous action where 17 other doctors had their licenses canceled for the same reason. The council emphasized that maintaining valid citizenship is a regulatory requirement for medical practice registration in Nepal.

Government Recommends 8 Ordinance to President

The Balen Shah-led government has recommended an ordinance to amend the Money Laundering Prevention Act to President Ram Chandra Paudel. This marks the eighth ordinance sent to the president’s office for authentication. According to the President’s Office, two ordinances regarding cooperatives and public procurement have already been issued, while six others remain under study. The recommendation for the money laundering ordinance follows the government’s recent focus on financial transparency and anti-corruption measures. The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers emphasized that these ordinances are necessary for immediate governance reforms that cannot wait for a regular parliamentary session. The president is expected to review the legal implications before deciding on the final authentication of the remaining recommendations.

Gen Z Front Coordinator Challenges PM Shah’s Buddha Message

Rakshya Bam, Coordinator of the Nepal Gen Z Front, has issued a sharp response to Prime Minister Balen Shah’s Buddha Jayanti message. While the Prime Minister noted that a “true revolution begins with knowledge (Gya),” Bam countered that a “true revolution begins with compassion (Ka for Karuna).” Bam, who has been a vocal critic of the government’s use of bulldozers to demolish squatter settlements, urged the Prime Minister to show more empathy toward the displaced families. The exchange highlights the ongoing ideological tension between the youth-led movement and the administration’s urban management policies. Bam’s statement underscores the movement’s demand for a more humane approach to governance, arguing that knowledge without compassion leads to the displacement and suffering of the city’s most vulnerable residents.

Gagan Thapa Criticizes Evictions, Urges Legal Solution to Landless Crisis

Gagan Kumar Thapa, president of the Nepali Congress, has criticized the government’s eviction drive against squatters, warning that bulldozer-led actions risk undermining due process. He said Nepal’s landless crisis stems from long-standing inequality and policy failures, disproportionately affecting marginalized and Dalit communities. Thapa noted that existing laws already provide mechanisms to identify genuine squatters and ensure land or housing but accused the state of poor implementation. While acknowledging misuse by some, he stressed that enforcement must follow legal procedures. Thapa urged the government to halt forced evictions without alternatives and pursue lawful, rights-based solutions that uphold dignity and constitutional guarantees.

NCP Coordinator Extends Labor Day Greetings to Workers

Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party (NCP), expressed his best wishes for peace, prosperity, and progress to all laborers at home and abroad on International Labor Day. In his message issued on Friday, he emphasized that the NCP remains steadfastly committed to protecting and promoting the rights and interests of the working class, particularly farmers, laborers, and the landless. He highlighted the importance of the labor force in nation-building and reaffirmed the party’s ideological focus on ensuring social justice and dignity for every worker. The message called for continued unity among the working class to achieve long-term economic stability and progress.

Dr. Sharan Pandey Appointed General Manager of DDC

The government has appointed Dr. Sharan Pandey, a joint secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, as the general manager of the Dairy Development Corporation (DDC). Pandey, who previously served as a provincial secretary in the Bagmati, Madhesh, and Koshi provinces, is known for his clean track record in governance. Upon assuming office on Friday, he announced that his top priority would be clearing the long-overdue payments to dairy farmers. He emphasized that ensuring fair and timely value for farmers’ labor is the corporation’s primary duty. Additionally, he plans to modernize the DDC by introducing advanced technology in production, processing, and distribution systems to make the institution more competitive and efficient in the national market.

Chinese Ambassador Pledges Stronger Security Cooperation with Nepal

The Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, has committed to strengthening bilateral security cooperation between China and Nepal. During a discussion at the National Police Academy in Maharajgunj yesterday, he met with participants of the Police Leadership and Staff Course (PLSC). The Chinese Embassy noted that discussions covered contemporary global and regional security challenges, law enforcement collaboration, and future possibilities for mutual aid. Ambassador Zhang expressed confidence that security ties would reach new heights, enhancing mutual trust and contributing significantly to regional stability. The interaction allowed future Nepal Police leaders to exchange views on strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two neighboring nations.

Over 2,000 Drivers Penalized for Traffic Violations in Kathmandu

A total of 2,093 drivers were penalized for violating traffic rules in the Kathmandu Valley during the last 24 hours. These actions resulted in Rs 1.9 million being deposited into the national treasury. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, the penalties included 65 for driving under the influence, 225 for unauthorized ride-sharing, and 153 for speeding. Other violations involved 194 lane discipline breaches, 109 sidewalk parking cases, and 58 instances of honking in prohibited zones. Additionally, 41 drivers were fined for picking up or dropping off passengers at non-designated spots, while 1,121 others faced action for various general traffic rule infractions.

‘Mohar’ Named Best Film at 5th Rural Film Festival

The film Mohar was declared the Best Film at the 5th Nepal Rural Film Festival held in Sarlahi. Nazir Hussain won the Best Actor award, while Suraksha Panta was named Best Actress. Organized by Celebrity Nepal in collaboration with the Film Development Board and Chandranagar Rural Municipality, the three-day festival showcased 17 films. The event marked the first time the festival was held in the Madhesh Province, aiming to promote regional stories and tourism. Film Development Board Chairman Dinesh DC attended as the chief guest. Local leaders emphasized that such events are crucial for promoting local culture and the Nadhiman Lake area. A book about the lake was also released during the closing ceremony, which featured traditional cultural processions.

Historic Jai Nepal Hall Reopens Under New Management

The historic Jai Nepal Hall in Kathmandu officially reopened on Friday after a long closure. Now operated by Buzz Entertainment, the cinema started its new run by screening the film ‘Raja Shivaji’ after the originally planned ‘Lalibazar’ faced delays. The renovated hall features a total of 306 seats, with a tiered pricing structure: Rs 800 for sleeper seats, Rs 500 for the balcony, and Rs 350 for general seating. Prominent film figures, including Neer Shah and Rabindra Khadka, attended the opening ceremony. The reopening of this iconic venue, previously managed by Quest Entertainment, is seen as a positive sign for the revival of traditional cinema spaces in the capital under fresh investment and management.

New Film ‘Akshara’ Commences with Script Puja

The formal production of the film Akshara, starring Sushil Sitaula and Nancy Khadka, began on Friday, with a script puja at the Guheshwari Temple. Directed by Binay Raj Paudel, the film marks his directorial debut after years of working as an assistant director. The cast includes veteran actors like Sushil Pokharel and Pushkar Raut, alongside child artists Ronak Khadka and Prisha Dhungana. Produced by Kshiti Babu Production House, the film features music by Karnaraj Giri and choreography by Ramji Lamichhane. The cinematography will be handled by Dipen Basnyat, with Abhimanyu Nirabi providing the screenplay and dialogue. The team expects to bring a fresh narrative to the screen with National Cine Group handling the distribution.

Nepal Secures Thrilling Win Over UAE in ICC World Cup League-2

Nepal secured a dramatic 6-run victory over the UAE in the ICC World Cup League-2 on Friday at the TU Ground. Chasing a revised target of 255 runs in 38 overs due to rain, the UAE was restricted to 248/8. Dipendra Singh Airee was the star, scoring a magnificent 100 runs off 94 balls, marking his second ODI century. On the bowling front, Sandeep Lamichhane took three wickets, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 wickets in League-2 history. Other contributors included Binod Bhandari (56) and Gulshan Jha (44). This win leaves Nepal in seventh place with 16 points from 23 matches, while the UAE remains at the bottom. Nepal’s next match is against Oman on May 5.

Tilicho Lake Wrestling Match Included in World Book of Records

The wrestling match organized by the Nepal Female Wrestling Foundation at Tilicho Lake has been officially included in the World Book of Records, London. The event took place at an altitude of 4,919 meters, making it a record-breaking feat for the “highest altitude lake.” During the competition held on November 26, 2025, Nepali wrestlers Bhagwati Khadka (Unika) and Asmita Sunar (Jureli) defeated American wrestler Camille Ligon (Holidead). Former Deputy Speaker Indira Rana presented the record certificates to the athletes. The foundation, led by Khadka, had previously organized a friendly match at Kala Patthar (5,633 meters) to promote Nepal’s tourism and the strength of female athletes globally. This recognition solidifies their efforts to combine extreme sports with national promotion.

Kshitij Bhandari and Kritisara Adhikari Win National Chess Titles

FM Kshitij Bhandari and Kritisara Adhikari emerged as champions in the 3rd Rapid and 2nd Blitz National Chess Championship in Kathmandu. In the men’s rapid category, Bhandari scored 8.5 points to claim the title and a cash prize of Rs 50,000. Adhikari secured a double win by topping both the women’s Rapid and Blitz categories, earning Rs 15,000. Organized by the Kathmandu Kshetrapati Club in memory of its founder Ram Hari Krishna Manandhar, the tournament saw participation from 180 players. Other notable finishers included Ashish Phuyal (second in Rapid) and Suroj Maharjan (second in Blitz). The prizes were distributed by Kathmandu’s Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol, with actor Hari Bansha Acharya highlighting how chess helps guide individuals toward the right path from a young age.

India Announces Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Disputed Lipulekh Route, Nepal Objects

The Ministry of External Affairs (India) has announced the Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage for 2026, reopening a high-altitude route through the Lipulekh Pass in coordination with China. The pilgrimage, scheduled between June and August 2026, follows an agreement between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. A total of 1,000 pilgrims will travel in 20 batches, split between the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. The inclusion of the Lipulekh route has sparked diplomatic tension, as Nepal claims the area as part of its sovereign territory, along with Kalapani and Limpiyadhura, and says it was neither consulted nor informed. The route, previously suspended after the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to reopen, despite ongoing territorial disputes.

Man Charged in London Stabbing Case of 2 Jewish men

A 45-year-old man has appeared in court in London charged with attempted murder after two Jewish men were seriously injured in a stabbing in Golders Green, an incident authorities have classified as terrorism. The accused, Essa Suleiman, is charged over the attack on two victims, aged 34 and 76, as well as a separate attempted murder linked to a knife assault earlier the same day in Southwark. He also faces a charge of possessing a weapon in a public place. Police said the suspect had a medical episode during arrest and was treated before being taken into custody. The case has been referred to the Old Bailey, where he is due to appear on May 15.

Myanmar Ex-Leader Aung San Suu Kyi Moved to House Arrest

Detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved to house arrest in Myanmar, according to state media, marking a shift in her status after years in military detention. The 80-year-old Nobel laureate has been held since the 2021 coup led by Min Aung Hlaing, who said her remaining sentence would now be served at a designated residence. However, uncertainty surrounds the move, with family members and legal representatives saying they have received no independent confirmation. Suu Kyi has largely remained out of public view since her arrest, with limited information about her condition. The development comes as the military government faces international scrutiny and appears to be seeking greater legitimacy.

Iran Sends New Proposal via Pakistan as Oil Prices Ease Amid War Standoff

Iran has sent a fresh proposal for negotiations with the United States through Pakistan, signaling a possible attempt to break the deadlock in the ongoing conflict. The move, reported by state media, briefly eased global oil prices, which had surged after Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted a major share of global energy supplies. Despite a ceasefire in place since April, tensions remain high amid reports of potential US military action. Uncertainty persists over whether the proposal has reached Washington. Both sides continue to exchange warnings, while global markets remain volatile over fears of prolonged disruption and stalled diplomacy.