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.

PM Shah Claims Both Nepal and India Encroached Borders, Calls for Talks

In an unprecedented statement to parliament on Sunday, Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah claimed that border encroachment has occurred from both sides of the Nepal-India border, asserting that Nepal has also encroached upon Indian territory. “It might surprise you to hear this—I also found out recently. It is not just India; Nepal has also encroached upon Indian land,” Prime Minister Shah said during a question-and-answer session in the House of Representatives, without specifying the exact locations. “We will sit down for table talks and discuss the mutual encroachment of land.”

MoFA Clarifies PM Shah’s Remarks on Nepal-India Border Issue

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) issued a clarification today regarding statements made by Prime Minister Balen Shah in Parliament concerning the Nepal-India border. Addressing media queries, MoFA explained that the Prime Minister’s remarks regarding “Indian land is encroached by Nepal” refer strictly to technical realities arising from the ‘Fixed Boundary Principle’ applied to shifting river borders, which has led to cases of cross-border land cultivation and occupation by citizens of both nations. MoFA reiterated that Nepal’s international boundary remains firmly guided by the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. While formal demarcation is still pending in the Susta, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani regions, joint technical teams have recently resumed field operations to scientifically map the border, repair boundary pillars, and clear encroachments on the No-Man’s Land.

Opposition Slams PM Shah Over Claims of Nepal Encroaching Indian Territory

The main opposition party, Nepali Congress, has strongly objected to Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah’s parliamentary statement claiming that Nepal has encroached upon Indian territory. Responding to lawmakers’ questions during Sunday’s House of Representatives session, the Prime Minister asserted that border encroachment was happening from both sides. Nepali Congress chief whip Basana Thapa immediately demanded clarification and empirical proof, labeling the Prime Minister’s remarks as highly sensitive and objectionable. “Where exactly has Nepal encroached? We must be informed about this,” Thapa argued, questioning how a head of government could speak so lightly on a delicate diplomatic matter.

Country Needs Revenue Over Ideological Discourse, Says PM Shah

Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah stated in parliament on Sunday that while discourse on socialism and communism is appealing, practical implementation is difficult, emphasizing that the country currently needs fiscal revenue over ideology. Responding to opposition lawmakers regarding Nepal’s graduation to developing nation status, PM Shah underscored a focus on export-oriented production. “Our attention is on boosting exports and generating wealth,” the Prime Minister said. “Speeches on communism and socialism are easy, but implementation is difficult.” He cited his past initiative as Kathmandu’s Mayor—mandating a 10% free education quota for underprivileged students—as an example of practical socialism.

Rabi Lamichhane to Visit India for High-Level Talks

Rabi Lamichhane is scheduled to visit India on June 1, where he will hold high-level discussions with Indian leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. During the visit, the Rastriya Swatantra Party chairman will also engage with the Nepali diaspora. He is set to participate in an interactive session organized by the Nepali Contact Forum India in Lajpat Nagar on June 4 at 3:00 PM.

UML Leader Gyawali Demands Apology from PM Balen Over Border Statement

CPN (UML) leader and former Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali has strongly criticized Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah’s recent statement regarding border issues with India, calling it highly objectionable and demanding a public apology. Taking to social media on Sunday, Gyawali condemned the Prime Minister’s remarks made during a parliamentary address, where Shah claimed that Nepal had also encroached upon Indian territory in multiple places. “The Prime Minister standing at the parliament rostrum and stating that ‘Nepal has also encroached on India’s land in many places’ is objectionable, suspicious, and highly condemnable,” Gyawali wrote. “This statement must be withdrawn immediately, and a public apology should be issued.”

US Under Secretary Rogers Pledges Support for Nepal’s Adventure TourismAddressing the ‘Ascent Summit’ in Kathmandu, US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah B. Rogers pledged continued American collaboration in Nepal’s adventure tourism, innovation, and technology sectors. Celebrating a 79-year diplomatic relationship as the US marks its 250th independence anniversary, Rogers connected the American spirit of exploration to Nepal’s mountaineering legacy, noting that the US remains Nepal’s second-largest tourist source market—contributing 112,000 of the 1.15 million visitors in 2023. She emphasized that modern high-altitude mountaineering now heavily relies on advanced safety and technology to sustain local economies.

National Assembly Passes Two Election-Related Bills

The National Assembly has passed two key election-related bills during its session on Sunday. The Upper House passed the House of Representatives Member Election (First Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Voter Roll (First Amendment) Bill, 2026, by a majority vote. Both bills were received by the National Assembly alongside a message from the House of Representatives. Earlier in the meeting, Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, Sobita Gautam, tabled separate motions seeking the passage of the bills on behalf of Prime Minister and Home Minister Balendra Shah.

RPP Leader Dhawal Shamsher Rana Launches New Nationalist Campaign

Following a meeting with disgruntled party leaders at a Kathmandu hotel on Sunday afternoon, dissident Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) leader Dhawal Shamsher Rana issued a press release announcing the launch of a new political campaign. Rana called upon the youth and nationalists to join his movement to build a credible, nationalist force. Admitting that past efforts to reform RPP failed, Rana stated that ideological ambiguities and a wrong trajectory led to the party being “penalized by the people.” He added that he harbors no animosity toward those choosing to stay in RPP but urged like-minded nationalists desiring a true direction to unite and move forward together.

Rastriya Sadbhawana Party Merges into Nepali Congress

The Rastriya Sadbhawana Party, led by Anil Kumar Jha, has officially merged into the Nepali Congress (NC). Jha, who had previously left the Loktantrik Samajwadi Party to reorganize the Rastriya Sadbhawana Party, formalized the merger at a function held at the NC central office in Sanepa on Sunday. Jha had notably contested the parliamentary elections held on March 5 under the Nepali Congress’s “Tree” election symbol. During the event today, Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa officially welcomed the leaders and cadres of the Rastriya Sadbhawana Party into the party fold.

Department of Immigration Urges Migrant Workers Not to Travel Without Final Labor Approval

The Department of Immigration has issued an official press release strongly requesting all citizens travelling for foreign employment to secure their final labor approval before arriving at the airport. According to the department, many Nepali citizens holding worker visas have been showing up at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) immigration desks immediately after submitting their labor applications, mistakenly assuming that the mere act of applying grants them permission to depart. The department highlighted that this ongoing issue causes severe distress and unnecessary hassle to the workers themselves when they are turned away.

Road Accidents Claim 4 Lives, Injure 113 in 24 Hours Across Nepal

At least four people were killed and 113 others injured in road accidents across Nepal in the past 24 hours, according to Nepal Police data. Bagmati Province recorded the highest number of fatalities with two deaths and 16 injuries. The Kathmandu Valley, recorded separately, reported one death and 19 injuries, while Gandaki Province reported one death without injuries. Madhesh Province reported the highest number of injuries at 37, followed by Koshi Province with 21 injuries, Sudurpashchim Province with 12, and Lumbini Province with seven.

Nepal–Switzerland Mark 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations

The Embassy of Nepal in Geneva organized a special program titled “Nepal–Switzerland Friendship: Mountains and Peoples” in Bern to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations and International Mt. Everest Day. The event, held in collaboration with Non-Resident Nepali Association Switzerland chapter, brought together over 100 participants including Swiss officials, diplomats, mountaineers, and members of the Nepali diaspora, highlighting decades of bilateral friendship.

APF Personnel Among Two Missing from Banks of Mahakali River

An Armed Police Force (APF) personnel and another individual have gone missing from the banks of the Mahakali River in Parshuram Municipality-5, Dadeldhura. According to District Police Office Dadeldhura, the missing individuals have been identified as APF Constable Om Prakash Pun Magar, currently stationed at the Border Outpost (BOP) in Parigaon, and a local resident, 56-year-old Tirtha Bahadur Thapa Magar. Both individuals have been out of contact since Friday. The two are reportedly related as maternal uncle and nephew.

Nepal’s Public Debt Burden Continues to Rise

Nepal’s widening budget deficit and growing recurrent expenditure are placing increasing pressure on public debt obligations. Not only is the government’s debt stock rising, but spending on principal and interest repayments is also increasing sharply, creating new challenges for public financial management. In fiscal year 2026/27, Nepal’s total public debt liability is expected to exceed Rs 3.4 trillion. The government plans to mobilize Rs 657 billion in public debt while allocating Rs 318 billion for debt repayment during the fiscal year.

Nepal Railways Continues to Suffer Financial Losses Despite Expansion Plans

Despite government plans to expand the railway network and connect it to the Fast Track, Nepal Railways Company Limited continues to incur heavy financial losses due to inadequate infrastructure and overreliance on ticket sales. A report by Nepal Rastra Bank’s Economic Activity Study and Annual Report 2024/25 for Madhesh Province states that operating expenses consistently exceed revenue, pushing the railway further into deficit. The report highlights the urgent need for maintenance centers, workshops, fuel storage facilities, washing bays, signaling systems, and skilled technical manpower to ensure the sustainable operation of the Jayanagar–Kurtha–Bijalpura service.

New VAT on Electricity Consumption Above 50 Units May Burden Households

The government’s decision to impose Value Added Tax (VAT) on monthly electricity consumption exceeding 50 units is expected to affect a large number of household consumers. The new provision introduces a five percent VAT on electricity bills for households consuming more than 50 units per month. Critics argue that the measure could discourage the growing adoption of electrical appliances and undermine efforts to increase domestic electricity consumption. Through Clause 55 of the Finance Bill presented in Parliament, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle proposed amending the VAT Act to authorize the collection of a five percent tax from end consumers on taxable electricity consumption.

Budget Backs New Road Tunnels as Nepal Expands Underground Infrastructure

Three tunnels are currently under construction at Lendanda, Dhedre, and Mahadevtar along the Kathmandu–Terai/Madhes Expressway. Additional tunnel works are underway at Devichaur, Sisautar, and Chandrambhir. As tunnel road construction gains momentum across the country, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle announced in the new budget that additional tunnel projects will be pursued in the coming fiscal year. The government had previously allocated funds for the Lamabagar and Dharan–Leuti tunnels in the 2021/22 budget. Discussions have also been held regarding the proposed Majhimtar–Shaktikhor–Jogimara tunnel road.

Capital Gains Tax Hike Overshadows Market Reform Measures

Although the budget for fiscal year 2026/27 introduces new financial instruments and plans to expand institutional investment in Nepal’s capital market, investors remain concerned about the increase in capital gains tax. While presenting the budget, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle announced measures including facilitating investment by Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs), introducing derivative trading, and restructuring the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). However, investors, brokers, and market analysts argue that the increase in capital gains tax makes the budget more revenue-oriented than investor-friendly.

Interpol-Nabbed TikToker Tulsi Adhikari to Face Court on Monday

Popular TikToker Tulsi Adhikari, 32, will be presented before the Lalitpur District Court on Monday following her weekend arrest in Thailand under an Interpol Red Notice. Adhikari is accused of running an organized “honey trap” racket that extorted Rs 65.2 million from an auto businessman by threatening to file a false rape case against him following a consensual encounter in 2018. Police investigations reveal that the extorted millions were systematically laundered and invested across Nepal and China. Currently held in Lalitpur police custody, she faces five severe criminal charges, including extortion, fraud, organized crime, and money laundering.

Dry Landslide Completely Blocks Khandbari-Kimathanka Highway in Sankhuwasabha

A massive dry landslide at Sirek in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality-4 has completely blocked the Khandbari-Kimathanka road section of the Koshi Highway, halting all vehicular movement since Friday afternoon. According to the District Police Office, a large volume of rocks, soil, and debris cascaded down from the steep slope above, burying about 15 meters of the highway. The sudden obstruction has left numerous commuters and vehicles stranded along the route. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Kumar Prasad Mainali, chief of the District Police Office, stated that although a police team was immediately dispatched to the site upon receiving the report, clearance operations could not begin safely as debris continues to fall intermittently.

Gaunthali Explores the Story of an Unconventional Couple

The upcoming film Gaunthali tells the story of an unconventional couple and the challenges they face after marriage. In the promotional footage released for the film, actor Arun Chhetri appears in an unusual role, portraying a man who seems to be suffering from a medical condition. The visuals also show his marriage to a much younger woman. The role of the young bride, who appears to be of school-going age, is played by actress Simran Khadka. According to actor Chhetri, the film centers on the struggles of a young woman forced into marriage at an early age despite her desire to continue her education, and her relationship with a husband whose behavior is considered unusual by society.

Actor Bijay Baral Injured on Sindure Jatra Set, Shooting Suspended

Actor Bijay Baral has been injured during the shooting of the upcoming film Sindure Jatra, forcing the production to halt filming. Baral suffered a fracture in his right wrist after falling from a horse while filming a scene in Arthur Dandakhark, Ward 14 of Kusma, where the movie has been shooting since May 15. He was taken to Pokhara for treatment, where doctors confirmed the fracture and placed his arm in a cast. Medical advice requires him to take at least five weeks of rest, prompting the production team to suspend shooting until early July.

Trailer of I Am Jeet Bahadur Unveiled

The trailer of I Am Jeet Bahadur, starring and produced by actor Jitu Nepal, has been released. Unveiled at an event on Friday, the trailer emotionally portrays the struggles, challenges, and journey of a young man who arrives in the city from a village with dreams of becoming an actor. The trailer presents Jitu Nepal in a different avatar, playing an aspiring performer determined to make a name for himself in the entertainment industry. Directed by Indian Bengali filmmaker Subhendu Ghosh, the film is scheduled for nationwide release on June 19.

Beauty Pageant ‘Miss Mithila Nari Nepal 2026‘ Officially Announced

The beauty pageant ‘Miss Mithila Nari Nepal 2026’ is set to be organized soon. The host organization, Third Eye Studios Pvt. Ltd., announced the upcoming event during a recent press conference. Moving forward under the slogan “The Beauty of Mithila,” the competition aims to place a strong emphasis on promoting Mithila culture, traditions, language, identity, and women’s empowerment. During the press meet key details regarding the event’s objectives, features, audition schedules and upcoming activities were shared. The organizers have emphasized that the program is not merely a conventional beauty pageant, but a platform dedicated to empowering the women of the Mithila region, preserving the distinct identity of Mithila culture, and guiding women toward self-reliance.

Nepal Demolish China by 221 Runs in Asian Games Qualifier Opener

Nepal kicked off their Asian Games Men’s Cricket Qualifier campaign in devastating fashion on May 31, crushing China by 221 runs in the Group A opener.  A sensational, record-breaking century by opener Kushal Bhurtel powered Nepal to a monumental 313 runs at the loss of two wickets before a disciplined bowling attack bundled China out for just 92 runs. After being put in to bat, Nepal lost opener Aasif Sheikh (11) early in the fourth over. However, that was the only moment of respite for the Chinese bowling attack.  Kushal Bhurtel unleashed absolute mayhem, blasting a breathtaking 129 runs off just 43 deliveries. Bhurtel’s astonishing knock included 5 boundaries and a staggering 16 sixes, operating at a strike rate of 300.00 before finally falling to Deng Jinqi in the 14th over. Chasing an improbable target of 314, China’s batting line-up collapsed under the weight of the scoreboard pressure and aggressive Nepali bowling.

Heartbreak for Nepal as China Women Clinch Last-Ball Thriller via DLS Method

China Women clinched third place in the Asian Games Qualifier on May 31, 2026, defeating Nepal Women by five wickets via the DLS method in a dramatic, rain-shortened 7-over shootout. Batting first, Nepal recovered from a disastrous 7/3 start to post 50/5, thanks to a late cameo from Kabita Kunwar (22 off 10 balls). China’s Ma Ruike starred with the ball, taking 2 for 5. Chasing a revised DLS target of 43, China looked comfortable early on behind captain Mingyue Zhu’s 18. However, Nepal’s Riya Sharma (2/3) triggered a stunning middle-order collapse, forcing a team hat-trick to leave China stuttering at 24/3. Despite the pressure, China’s Cai Yuzhi (11) held her nerve, guiding her team to victory off the final delivery of the match.

China Women Shuts the Door for Nepal on Asian Games Qualification

The Nepali women’s cricket team has been eliminated from contention for the upcoming Asian Games following a devastating defeat to China on Sunday. Nepal enters the tournament ranked 21st in the ICC Women’s T20I rankings, while China sits well below them at 43rd. In order to qualify for the Asian Games, teams needed to secure at least a third-place finish in the tournament. Nepal was forced into this third-place play-off after suffering a narrow two-wicket loss to Malaysia in the semifinals, only to be dealt another massive blow by the Chinese side.

Israeli Airstrikes Hit Lebanon’s Deir ez-Zahrani, Multiple Casualties Reported

Israeli forces launched several air attacks at dawn on the town of Deir ez-Zahrani, killing several people, according to Al Jazeera, citing Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). The strikes reportedly targeted residential buildings where residents were asleep, causing multiple injuries in addition to fatalities. The NNA said rescue teams are currently working at the scene to recover victims, adding that several people remain trapped under the rubble.

Violence Erupts in France After PSG Champions League Win

More than 400 people were arrested across France following clashes between football fans and police after Paris Saint-Germain defeated Arsenal in the Champions League final. Thousands of police officers were deployed in Paris to control unrest that disrupted bus, train, and rail services. Fireworks and flares were set off during the celebrations, and several police officers were injured. Authorities used tear gas to disperse crowds. It marks the second consecutive year of football-related violence, following deadly unrest after PSG’s 2025 victory.

Trump Signals Conditional Iran Deal Amid Military Threats

US President Donald Trump has indicated that a peace deal with Iran is possible but warned that military action remains an option if negotiations fail. Speaking to Fox News, he said any agreement must guarantee that Iran does not obtain nuclear weapons. Trump described the potential deal as significant while adding that the US could “finish it off militarily” if talks collapse, referencing past rapid military operations and suggesting possible strategic benefits such as reopening key maritime routes if an agreement is reached.

Japan Rejects China’s ‘Militarism’ Charge, Raises Concerns Over Beijing’s Military Expansion

Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has pushed back against Beijing’s accusation that Tokyo is pursuing a path of “new militarism,” instead arguing that China’s growing military capabilities and lack of transparency pose a greater concern to the international community. Speaking on the final day of a defence summit in Singapore, Koizumi said it was China’s expanding military power and its “huge arsenal” of weapons that should be viewed with serious concern. His comments mark one of Tokyo’s strongest responses yet to China’s repeated criticism of Japan’s military build-up under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Relations between the two Asian powers remain strained, with historical tensions rooted in Japan’s invasion of China during World War II continuing to influence ties between the countries.

Pakistan’s Karachi Residents Face Severe Utility Outages During Eidul Azha

The collapse of water supply, along with gas and electricity outages, disrupted the three-day Eidul Azha celebrations for millions of residents in Pakistan’s Karachi, leaving people struggling to cook, bathe, and cope with extreme heat. Across many parts of the city, water taps remained dry while gas pressure dropped and electricity supply frequently failed, causing widespread frustration during the festival period. Residents accused the utility providers of failing to ensure uninterrupted services, despite official claims that supply would remain stable throughout the holiday.