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, Speaker Aryal, Discuss Parliamentary Affairs

President Ram Chandra Paudel held a meeting with House of Representatives Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal at the Presidential Office, Shital Niwas, on Tuesday. According to the president’s secretariat, the two leaders discussed contemporary political developments, parliamentary affairs, and issues of national importance. The meeting was held as part of a regular consultation and coordination process between two key state institutions.

President Removes House of Representatives Secretary Rai

President Ram Chandra Paudel has removed Harka Raj Rai from the post of secretary of the House of Representatives. The decision was taken on the recommendation of Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal made on May 11. According to a statement issued by Presidential Office spokesperson Ritesh Kumar Shakya, Rai was dismissed under Section 6 (e) of the Act Relating to the Remuneration, Conditions of Service, and Facilities of the Federal Parliament Secretary General, House of Representatives Secretary, and National Assembly Secretary, 2018. The statement said the decision will come into effect from May 12.

Education Minister Urges Teachers to Avoid Politics, Warns Schools Over Excess Fees

Education Minister Sasmit Pokharel has urged teachers to remain professional and stay away from political activities, saying those interested in politics should leave the teaching profession. Speaking at a meeting of the Education, Health and Information Technology Committee on Tuesday, Pokharel said the government aims to improve discipline in schools by reducing political interference in the education sector. He also said this year’s academic session began on April 28 after delays caused by fuel shortages and administrative decisions, while classes resumed from May 4 following a Supreme Court interim order. The minister further warned that schools charging fees beyond approved limits would face action.

Health Minister, Indian Envoy Discuss Cooperation in Health Sector

Health Minister Nisha Mehta and Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava held talks on Tuesday focusing on bilateral cooperation in health, water supply, and sanitation sectors. According to the ministry, the meeting reviewed ongoing collaboration between the two countries and explored ways to strengthen national health science institutions, develop specialized treatment centers, and expand health infrastructure cooperation. Minister Mehta thanked India for its continued support in health and sanitation projects, while Ambassador Srivastava extended best wishes for her successful tenure.

Madheshi Commission Cites Budget Crunch in Addressing Regional Problems

Acting Chairperson of the Madheshi Commission Jiwachh Sah has said the commission is struggling to address problems in Madhesh due to a limited budget and resources. Speaking at a House committee meeting on Tuesday, Sah said the commission has submitted more than 300 recommendations to the government on issues affecting the region, including dowry practices, poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, and natural disasters. He noted that some recommendations had been incorporated into the government’s annual policy and program. Sah said the commission currently operates nationwide with only Rs 2 million, while lawmakers urged stronger awareness campaigns and greater focus on domestic violence, unemployment, education, and healthcare issues in Madhesh.

National ID Management System Down for 9 Consecutive Days

Services related to national identity cards have remained completely halted for nine days since May 4 due to a malfunction in the National Identity Management Information System. The Department of National ID and Vital Registration under the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice on May 6 regarding ongoing repairs, but the system has yet to be restored. This disruption has suspended the generation of National Identity Numbers (NIN) during birth registration, biometric verification for social security renewals, and the correction of existing ID details, though services for those with previously validated cards remain functional. District administration offices have notified the public that services will remain suspended until further notice from the department.

Labor Minister’s Driver Arrested on Kidnapping and Abuse Charges

Police have arrested the driver of Labor Minister Ramji Yadav on charges including kidnapping, unlawful detention, and inhumane treatment. Authorities said 27-year-old Mustakim Miya was taken into custody on Monday for allegedly abducting a man, holding him hostage, assaulting and threatening him, and recording a humiliating video after stripping the victim unclothed. Police said evidence collected during the investigation supported claims of kidnapping and abuse, while further investigation is ongoing. Miya had been appointed as the minister’s light vehicle driver on April 10.

Independent MP Mahabir Pun Urges Priority for Science and Innovation

During a special session of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, independent lawmaker Mahabir Pun urged the government to prioritize innovation and scientific research. Highlighting his previous efforts to introduce an ordinance for development research while serving as a minister in the government that conducted the March 5 elections, he called for the establishment of a separate Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Research. While acknowledging the current government’s ordinance regarding universities intended to depoliticize education, he demanded a restructuring so that the prime minister no longer serves as the chancellor.

Shram Sanskriti Party Demands Halt to Pathibhara Cable Car Construction

Harka Sampang, leader of the Shram Sanskriti Party parliamentary party, demanded that the prime minister address questions raised by lawmakers in the House of Representatives. During Tuesday’s session, he emphasized that the government must respect constitutional rights to maintain democracy. He specifically called for an immediate halt to the construction of a cable car at Pathibhara, stating that religious encroachment under the guise of development is unacceptable.

Badal’s Remarks on Army and RSP Spark Controversy in House

Ram Bahadur Thapa faced criticism in the House of Representatives on Tuesday after questioning the role of the Army and making controversial remarks about the Rastriya Swatantra Party. During the parliamentary session, Thapa raised concerns over the army’s role in border deployment and actions against squatters, while questioning its response during major incidents. He also described the RSP as an alliance driven by ambition rather than ideology. The remarks drew objections from RSP lawmaker Manish Khanal and Khusbu Oli, who demanded that the statements be removed from the parliamentary record.

Inclusive Representation Bigger Achievement than Election Results: Prachanda

Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) has said inclusive and proportional representation in Parliament is a greater achievement than electoral outcomes, describing the current House as a “rainbow representation” of marginalized communities. Addressing the House of Representatives on Tuesday, the former prime minister said the presence of women, Dalits, indigenous nationalities, Madhesis, Muslims, Tharus, and other excluded groups reflected decades of struggle and sacrifice. He said the transformation of Parliament was achieved through people’s movements and revolutionary efforts. Prachanda added that he feels personally represented whenever lawmakers from marginalized communities enter Parliament, regardless of party affiliation.

Angdembe Questions Government Accountability, Urges Solution for Landless Settlers

Vishma Raj Angdembe has criticized the government over accountability, governance style, and failure to address the landless settlers’ issue. Speaking in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Angdembe said it was unfortunate that citizens had to search for the government on social media, arguing that such conditions reflected weak democratic governance. He urged authorities to remain directly accountable and responsive to the public. He also accused the government of prioritizing populist announcements over effective governance and warned that insensitivity in handling the landless settlers’ issue was undermining public trust in the state.

CPN (UML) names Padma Aryal as Parliamentary Party Deputy Leader

CPN (UML) has appointed Padma Kumari Aryal as the deputy leader of its parliamentary party. Aryal, who is also a member of the House of Representatives and party secretary, has been nominated to the post by parliamentary party leader Ram Bahadur Thapa ‘Badal.’ Badal currently serves as the leader of the UML parliamentary party. Earlier, Ain Mahar was appointed chief whip and Nita Ghatani as whip of the parliamentary party.

Nepali Congress Criticizes PM Shah for Early Exit During Policy Address

The Nepali Congress has officially criticized Prime Minister Balendra Shah for exiting the joint session of Federal Parliament while President Ram Chandra Paudel was still presenting the government’s policies and programs. Party spokesperson Devraj Chalise labeled the Prime Minister’s early departure as a breach of parliamentary decorum, constitutional tradition, and institutional dignity, noting that such behavior from the head of government during a high-level national event sends an “unpleasant message.” The party also addressed the Prime Minister’s choice of attire and general conduct, describing it as an “unnatural style” that undermines established democratic norms. While acknowledging that national dress may not be legally mandatory, the party emphasized that respecting cultural identity and symbolic state dignity is a standard practice for constitutional occasions.

Kidney Patients Protest at Maitighar Demanding Better Healthcare Support

Kidney patients and people suffering from chronic illnesses staged a protest at Maitighar Mandala on Tuesday, demanding improved healthcare support and stronger government action. The demonstration, organized by the Kidney Patients Concern Society, accused authorities of ignoring long-standing demands related to treatment access and patient welfare. Protesters called for better dialysis services nationwide, free or subsidized medicines for transplant recipients and chronically ill patients, and regular distribution of state-provided living allowances. After the protest, demonstrators submitted a memorandum to the Health Ministry and warned of stronger protests if their demands are not addressed soon.

Traffic Police Penalize 2,212 Drivers in Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police penalized 2,212 drivers during various checks conducted over the last 24 hours. The enforcement actions resulted in the collection of Rs 2.7 million in revenue. According to authorities, the penalties included 83 for driving under the influence (DUI), 179 related to ride-sharing, 131 for red-light violations, and 139 for speeding. Other offenses included lane discipline violations, sidewalk parking, and prohibited honking, with police urging passengers to report suspected drug- or alcohol-impaired drivers to the 103 or 100 hotlines.

Supreme Court Summons ‘Lalibazar’ Team Over Controversial Release

The Supreme Court has issued an order to summon the production team of the film ‘Lalibazar’ for a discussion regarding its release. A joint bench of Justices Kumar Regmi and Nripa Dhwoj Niroula issued the directive on Tuesday, following a writ petition filed by Roshni Badi on May 8. The petitioner approached the apex court after the Patan High Court initially allowed the film’s screening. Badi’s petition names the Patan High Court, Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, the Film Censor Board, the Film Development Board, and the production house Shatkon Arts as respondents. She argues that the film portrays the Badi community in a manner that impugns their character and has requested a formal halt to its screening. The court will now facilitate a discussion between the concerned parties to address these character-related concerns before the film proceeds.

Pooja Sharma Signed for Sequel to Film ‘Man Binako Dhan’

Actor and filmmaker Pooja Sharma has been confirmed as the lead actress for the upcoming sequel to the film Man Binako Dhan, which was released last year. The project will be directed and produced by Tank Budhathoki under the banner of Tank Budhathoki Productions, marking the production house’s second film venture. While Sharma has been signed, the remaining cast members for the sequel have yet to be officially announced. According to the production team, filming is scheduled to commence around August or September of this year. The screenplay and dialogue are written by Shivam Adhikari, while Budhathoki will handle the story and music. Produced by Bishnu Maya Mainali, the team is currently engaged in pre-production and expects to finalize the additional cast in the coming weeks.

Scotland Edges Nepal by 2 Runs via DLS in CWC League 2

Scotland defeated Nepal by two runs under the DLS method in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 match on Tuesday. Chasing a revised target of 221 in 39 overs after rain interruption, Nepal reached 218 at the loss of seven wickets in 39 overs, falling just short of victory. Gulshan Jha top-scored for Nepal with an unbeaten 61 off 35 balls, hitting two fours and five sixes, while Dipendra Singh Airee made 55 off 49 balls. Captain Rohit Paudel contributed 32 runs. Nepal had a poor start as Binod Bhandari and Aasif Sheikh departed early, reducing the team to 45/3. Despite a middle-order recovery, regular wickets hurt Nepal’s chase. For Scotland, Bradley Currie claimed 3 wickets, while Mark Watt took 2 wickets. Oliver Davidson and Jack Jarvis picked up one wicket each. Earlier, Scotland had posted 243 runs in their allotted 50 overs.

NSC Refutes Karate Coach’s Allegations of Non-Cooperation

The National Sports Council (NSC) has officially denied allegations made by karate coach Kushal Shrestha regarding a lack of support for international competitions. While acknowledging that a budget crunch hampered training for Mission 2026 over the past two months, the NSC clarified that it has provided significant financial backing to Shrestha and athlete Erika Gurung. Data released by the council shows a total payment of Rs 2.6 million in the current fiscal year for travel and lodging. Since the fiscal year 2023/24, the total support for the duo has reached Rs 4.8 million. The NSC expressed regret for being unable to fund Gurung’s recent silver-medal trip to China due to the budget deficit but thanked the private organizations that assisted her.

Pakistan Rejects Report on Iranian Aircraft at Their Airbase

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan on Tuesday rejected a US media report claiming Islamabad secretly allowed Iranian military aircraft to remain at Nur Khan Air Base during mediation efforts in the Middle East conflict, calling the report misleading and speculative. Pakistan said aircraft from both Iran and the United States arrived after the April ceasefire to support diplomatic talks, transport personnel, and handle logistical arrangements linked to negotiations. Some aircraft and support staff reportedly remained in anticipation of further engagements. The statement stressed that the Iranian aircraft had no military purpose and reiterated Pakistan’s role as a neutral facilitator for dialogue and regional de-escalation. The controversy emerged after a report by ‘CBS News’ alleged Iranian reconnaissance aircraft had been stationed at the base.

US Inflation Jumps to 3.8% as Iran War Drives up Fuel and Food Prices

Inflation in the United States rose to 3.8% in April, the highest since May 2023, driven largely by higher energy and food costs linked to the ongoing Iran war and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. According to official data, nearly half of the increase was fueled by surging fuel prices, with the national average gasoline price reaching USD 4.50 per gallon, its highest since July 2022. Housing and food also contributed to the rise, while airfares and clothing increased and new car prices slightly declined. The spike reduces the likelihood of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve this year and adds political pressure ahead of upcoming midterm elections in the United States.

Afghanistan Rehab Center Strike Kills 269, War Crime Concerns Raised: UN

A United Nations report says at least 269 people were killed in a Pakistani airstrike on the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Center in Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, in March, making it one of the deadliest attacks in the country in recent years. The victims included recovering drug addicts, hospital workers, and civilians, many of whom were burned or dismembered beyond recognition. The strike hit residential blocks, treatment areas, storage units, and vocational facilities, sparking massive fires. Rights groups and UN officials have raised concerns of possible war crimes, while families of victims rejected Pakistan’s claims that the site was linked to militant activity. The attack has further escalated tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan amid ongoing border conflict and mutual accusations over militancy.