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.

Government’s “Zero Pending Files” from Today

The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers launched the “Zero Pending Files Week Campaign” on Monday to eliminate bureaucratic delays. This initiative, guided by a new 2026 framework, aims to prevent files from being unnecessarily held at various tables or forwarded to higher authorities without cause. Running until April 20, the campaign mandates an automatic review of any file pending for more than three, seven, or 15 days. The goal is to ensure clear accountability and provide timely decisions for service seekers across all government offices.

Indian PM Modi Invites PM Balen Shah to Visit India

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal announced on Monday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India has formally invited Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) to visit India. Speaking at a press conference following his return from the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, Minister Khanal revealed that the invitation was included in Modi’s congratulatory letter to the new prime minister. While a specific date has not yet been finalized, the matter was discussed during a sideline meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. High-level visits will be scheduled after both governments define their priorities and technical committees complete their preliminary assessments.

Speaker Aryal Consults Former Speakers on Parliamentary Efficiency

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, who was elected unopposed on April 5, held a high-level consultation with his predecessors on Monday. He met with former speakers Devraj Ghimire and Agni Prasad Sapkota to discuss the effective management of the federal parliament and the strengthening of the legislative process. The discussions focused on sharing past experiences to improve parliamentary practices and ensuring the smooth operation of upcoming sessions. The Speaker’s Secretariat noted that such consultations aim to build a more collaborative environment for legislative drafting and floor management.

Deputy Speaker Rubi Kumari Thakur Formally Assumes Office

The newly elected Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rubi Kumari Thakur, officially assumed her post on Monday. Following her election on April 10, she took charge at her office in Singha Durbar. During her first day, she held an official meeting with Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, who extended his congratulations and best wishes for her tenure. The speaker’s Secretariat noted that this meeting marked the beginning of her formal coordination within the federal parliament’s leadership.

Former King Gyanendra Shah Commends Youth Participation in State Affairs

In his New Year 2083 BS message released on Monday, former King Gyanendra Shah expressed optimism regarding the increasing involvement of the younger generation in politics and state governance. He emphasized that the participation of tech-savvy and educated youth is vital for the nation’s progress. However, Shah also expressed concern over the country’s economic stagnation and the perceived superficiality of political changes. He called for an end to internal conflict and urged all parties to seek constitutional solutions through dialogue and consensus. He highlighted the need for national self-reliance and the protection of Nepal’s cultural heritage as essential steps toward restoring national pride.

Upper House Committee Approves Annual Work Plan and Budget Review

The Development, Economic Affairs, and Good Governance Committee of the National Assembly conducted a comprehensive review of its annual work plan on Monday. Chaired by Krishna Prasad Paudel, the meeting assessed activities carried out from mid-July through mid-March. Committee Secretary Dr. Rojnath Pandey stated that the session finalized a schedule to complete all remaining tasks by July 2026. Key decisions include prioritizing pre-budget discussions, monitoring the government’s good governance agenda, and evaluating the implementation of current budget allocations across 24 specific focus areas to ensure measurable results.

Speaker Aryal Directs Timely Completion of Rs 7.94 Billion Parliament Building

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal has expressed serious concern over the delays in constructing the new federal parliament building. During a meeting on Monday with Ministry of Urban Development officials and contractors from Tundi-Sherpa JV, he directed that the project be completed by the revised deadline of May 23. The project, initially contracted in 2019 for Rs 7.94 billion, has faced 6 deadline extensions. While the main structure is 94 percent complete, additional contracts for interior work and roofing, worth over Rs 2.37 billion, are still ongoing.

Home Minister Gurung Pledges Policy Support for APF Training

Home Minister Sudhan Gurung addressed the graduation ceremony of the 30th Basic Inspector Training session at the National APF Training Academy in Matatirth on Monday. He emphasized the government’s commitment to providing the Armed Police Force (APF) with necessary resources, infrastructure, and security equipment. The minister praised the APF’s role in border security, revenue assistance, and disaster management across all 77 districts. He urged the newly commissioned officers to adopt discipline and honesty as their guiding principles and assured them that the Ministry would prioritize the modernization of training facilities to meet evolving security challenges.

PM Shah and Cabinet Members Disclose Assets and Rs 43.1 Million Shares

The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers publicized the asset details of the prime minister and cabinet members on Sunday. Prime Minister Balendra Shah reported 190 tolas of ancestral gold and Rs 14.6 million in social media earnings. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle declared 4 houses and 45 tolas of gold, citing foreign employment as a primary wealth source. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung disclosed 89 tolas of gold and share market investments exceeding Rs 43.1 million. Other ministers, including Shishir Khanal and Sobita Gautam, reported significant real estate holdings and bank balances.

Unidentified Man Found Dead in Jawalakhel Zoo Pond

A man was found drowned in the pond inside the Central Zoo in Lalitpur on the morning of Monday. Security personnel discovered the body and rushed the individual to Patan Hospital, where he was pronounced dead during treatment. The District Police Range, Lalitpur, has stated that the identity of the deceased has not yet been established. Authorities are currently reviewing security footage and conducting a detailed investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Indian National Apprehended with 2 Kilograms of Marijuana at TIA

Security personnel at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) arrested an Indian national on Monday for attempting to smuggle approximately 2 kilograms of marijuana. The individual arrived in Kathmandu from Colombo, Sri Lanka, via a Srilankan Airlines flight. Armed Police Force (APF) personnel intercepted the suspect during a routine check in the customs area. APF Spokesperson Bishnu Prasad Bhattarai confirmed that the seized narcotics and the suspect have been handed over to the Nepal Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Student Unions Protest Against “Opaque” Ministerial Asset Disclosures

The All Nepal National Independent Students’ Union (Revolutionary), affiliated with the opposition, held a protest in Maitighar on Monday against the government’s recent asset disclosures. Protesters characterized the reports as opaque and demanded an immediate investigation into the legitimate sources of wealth for the prime minister and cabinet members. Carrying placards with slogans such as “Minister’s Gold is the People’s Burden,” the students called for the formation of a high-level independent commission to audit the millions in shares and jewelry reported. They argued that the luxurious lifestyles of cabinet members are inconsistent with their official income and urged for transparency regarding alleged gold smuggling and corruption.

PM Balendra Shah Concludes Regional Consultations with Lawmakers

Prime Minister Balendra Shah held a strategic meeting with members of the House of Representatives from Bagmati Province at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers on Monday. This session focused on addressing specific regional grievances and infrastructure bottlenecks within the province. With this meeting, the Prime Minister has now concluded a series of consultations involving lawmakers from all seven provinces, including Karnali, Sudurpashchim, Koshi, Gandaki, and Madhesh. These discussions are part of the government’s effort to align federal planning with local development needs.

KP Oli Undergoes Successful Gallbladder Surgery at TUTH

The Chairman of CPN (UML) and former Prime Minister KP Oli underwent successful surgery to remove a 22 mm stone from his gallbladder on Monday. The procedure was performed at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH) in Maharajgunj. Oli had been admitted to the hospital on March 28, following his arrest from his residence in Gundu. Despite being released from custody on April 7 following a Supreme Court order, he remained hospitalized for the scheduled surgery and is currently recovering in the ICU.

Protest Against MP Amaresh Kumar Singh in Jaleshwor

Supporters of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) staged a protest against their own Member of Parliament, Amaresh Kumar Singh, in Jaleshwor, Mahottari, on Monday. The demonstration occurred while Singh, the representative for Sarlahi-4, was holding a meeting with the chief district officer and local security heads. Local RSP workers, led by Prakash Pathak, expressed outrage that Singh was coordinating with local authorities without consulting the party’s regional representatives, specifically noting that Jaleshwor falls under Mahottari-3, represented by Ujjwal Jha. Police were forced to intervene to prevent protesters from entering the meeting hall as they chanted slogans against the MP.

Communication Ministry Orders 1 Gbps Fiber Upgrade for Singha Durbar

The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has launched an initiative to ensure uninterrupted, high-speed internet within the Singha Durbar complex. Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina directed the Integrated Data Management Center to address frequent outages and slow speeds. Currently, the complex utilizes a 1 Gbps broadband service from Nepal Telecom, supplemented by 250 Mbps for G-Cloud operations. The Ministry has ordered that optical fibers be moved underground to prevent damage during road construction and called for the deployment of expert technical teams to maintain the network 24/7.

Home Minister Removes Controversial Social Media Post After Backlash

Home Minister Sudhan Gurung deleted a post from his official Instagram account on Monday following intense public criticism. The post, which appeared after the disclosure of ministerial assets, claimed that being born poor is not a mistake but dying poor is. He also stated that earning wealth before joining the government was not a “sin” as long as it was not through corruption. The remarks were met with severe backlash from activists and the general public, who viewed the comments as insensitive given the high value of gold and shares reported in the minister’s asset disclosure.

MP Harka Sampang Demands Transparency on Ministerial Wealth Sources

Following the government’s disclosure of ministerial assets, Member of Parliament and Shram Sanskriti Party Chairman Harka Sampang has demanded a full audit of the sources of wealth. Writing on social media on Monday, Sampang argued that reporting asset totals is insufficient without clarifying how they were acquired. He stated that wealth without clear, legitimate sources implies corruption and urged the government to provide evidence of income for the millions in shares, gold, and property disclosed by the prime minister and ministers. His remarks come amid growing public scrutiny of the high net worth reported by various cabinet members.

Chief Minister Acharya Warns Federal Government Against Interference

Lumbini Province Chief Minister Chetan Narayan Acharya has urged the federal government to respect the constitutional autonomy of provincial and local levels. Speaking at the 34th anniversary of Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City on Monday, he criticized the increasing trend of “direct instructions” from the center, particularly regarding the communication sector. Acharya argued that while the federal government can provide coordination and guidance, it cannot bypass the self-governance rights of the provinces. He called for a collaborative approach to national development, warning that undermining constitutional rights could lead to institutional instability and hinder the delivery of public services.

Nepali Congress Central Work Committee to Meet on April 15

The Nepali Congress has scheduled a meeting of its Central Work Execution Committee for Wednesday. Acting Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Dulal issued a statement on Monday confirming that the session will commence at 2:00 PM at the party’s central office, BP Smriti Bhawan, in Lalitpur. Party leadership and committee members have been directed to attend the session, which is expected to deliberate on current political developments and internal party organizational matters ahead of the upcoming local deliberations.

Anticorruption Commission Files Rs 2.24 Million Case Against Official

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) filed a corruption case at the Special Court on Monday against Deepak Kumar Acharya, the former Chief Administrative Officer of Gurans Rural Municipality. Acharya and Subas Karki, proprietor of RK Construction, are accused of misappropriating Rs 2.2 million. According to CIAA Spokesperson Suresh Neupane, the charges involve illegal gains and misuse of authority under Section 17 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2002. The commission has sought the recovery of the full amount along with appropriate fines and imprisonment for both individuals.

Lalitpur Metropolitan Operates 11 Electric Waste Vans to Save Rs 7 Million

As part of its “Fossil Fuel Free City” initiative, Lalitpur Metropolitan City has launched 11 new electric waste collection vans. Mayor Chiri Babu Maharjan handed over the Foton company vehicles, which are specially designed with a 4.9-meter turning radius to navigate the city’s narrow alleys. These vans feature “Electric Booms” for automated waste unloading and GPS for real-time tracking. Technical studies suggest that replacing diesel vehicles with this electric fleet will save the city approximately Rs 7 million annually in operating costs, furthering the goal of a green and sustainable urban environment.

Locals Lock Hanuman Nagar Office Over Relocation Dispute

Residents of Hanuman Nagar Kankalini Municipality padlocked the municipal office on Monday to protest its planned relocation. The municipal assembly had recently decided to move the executive office from Ward No. 12 to a newly constructed veterinary hospital building in Ward No. 5, citing flood risks and property damage. However, local protesters and Ward No. 2 Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav demand that the new building remain dedicated to veterinary services for farmers. Protesters organized a sit-in at the main gate and forced a market closure in Hanuman Nagar, insisting that the office should only be moved once a dedicated administrative building is constructed.

Lamjung Police Launch QR-Based Digital Complaint System

The District Police Office, Lamjung, has introduced a QR-based digital service to collect public feedback and complaints. District Police Chief Jitendra Kumar Basnet announced that QR codes have been placed at all police units and digital platforms across the district to make the service more accessible. This system allows citizens to report crimes, provide suggestions, or voice grievances regarding police conduct without needing a physical complaint box. Authorities believe that real-time monitoring of these digital responses will enhance the efficiency and transparency of law enforcement activities in the region by replacing traditional, often underutilized, paper-based systems.

Pokhara Metropolitan to Launch Free Electric Shuttle Bus Service

To combat high taxi fares and improve accessibility, Pokhara Metropolitan City will launch a free electric shuttle bus service between Pokhara International Airport and Amarsingh Chowk. Starting tomorrow, two high-end electric buses, valued at Rs 13 million each, will operate during flight hours. This service will remain free for passengers until mid-July, after which a minimal fee will be introduced. Mayor Dhanraj Acharya described the initiative as a gift to residents, aimed at easing transit from the airport to the city’s main market areas.

Crime Web Series ‘Sahu Ba’ Featuring 380 Actors to Debut in April

The trailer for the ambitious Nepali web series Sahu Ba was released on Sunday, promising a narrative centered on crime, action, and revenge. Directed and written by Sujoy Yong, the series features an unprecedented cast of over 380 actors, including Priyanka Karki, Namrata Shrestha, and Biju Parki. The production of the 24-episode series spanned three years to ensure high-quality cinematography and “hardcore” action choreography. “Sahu Ba” is set to officially premiere on April 17 with episodes available on the MOMO app and the Music Nepal Entertainment YouTube channel.

Sushil Sitaula Joins Cast of Upcoming Film ‘Paanch Pandav’

Actor Sushil Sitaula has been cast in a leading role in the film Paanch Pandav, replacing Sagar Lamsal ‘Bale,’ who recently exited the project. Sitaula joins a high-profile ensemble including Hari Bansha Acharya, Jitu Nepal, Aryan Sigdel, and Mahesh Tripathi as the five titular characters. Directed by Basanta Niraula and written by Sushil Paudel, the film began shooting on March 16 in the border town of Kakarbhitta. Produced by Kali Rani Shrestha under the banner of Kalirani Films, the production also features performances by Deepa Shree Niraula and Prashant Tamrakar.

Thamel Road Festival to Celebrate New Year

The Thamel Tourism Development Council is organizing the “Thamel Road Festival” today, Monday, to celebrate the Nepali New Year 2083 BS. Vice President Sahadev Dhamala stated that the festival aims to promote Nepali culture to international tourists, who make up 80 percent of Thamel’s visitors. The event on Tridevi Marg features 32 stalls showcasing traditional food and local products. Cultural programs began at 6:00 PM and will continue until 12:30 AM to welcome the new year. The festival is expected to draw a large number of domestic and foreign participants.

Tribhuvan Army and Sudurpashchim Reach PM Cup Cricket Final

Tribhuvan Army Club and Sudurpashchim Province have secured their spots in the final of the Prime Minister Cup One Day Cricket Tournament. In a decisive match held in Janakpur on Monday, Army defeated Koshi Province by 185 runs, fueled by a brilliant 189-run performance from Binod Bhandari. Meanwhile, in Birgunj, APF Club beat Madhesh Province by 74 runs, which allowed Sudurpashchim Province to finish as league runners-up and advance to the final. The two teams will now compete for the national title in the tournament’s concluding fixture.

9th Mayor Bhojpur Gold Cup to Kick Off on April 19

The ninth edition of the “Mayor Bhojpur Gold Cup” football tournament is scheduled to take place from April 19 to April 25. Organized by the District Football Association with Bhojpur Municipality as the main sponsor, the competition will feature 8 teams, including A-Division clubs like Satdobato Youth Club and APF Football Club. The winner will receive Rs 500,000, while the runner-up will take home Rs 300,000. Additionally, the 8th Mayor Cup Women’s Football Tournament will be held from April 30, with a top prize of Rs 106,000.

Karate Star Erika Gurung Returns to Nepal with Silver Medal

Nepal’s karate sensation Erika Gurung received a hero’s welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) on Monday after winning a silver medal at the Karate 1-Premier League in China. Gurung reached the final of the women’s 68 kg category by defeating Italy’s Cleo Ferracuti 8-3 in the semifinals. In the gold medal match held in Leshan on Sunday, she narrowly lost 2-1 to Kazakhstan’s Sofia Berultseva. This marks her second major silver against Berultseva, following a similar result in Turkey. Officials from the Nepal Karate Federation greeted the team and praised Gurung’s consistent international performance.

Global Oil Prices Surpass $100 Following Hormuz Blockade

International crude oil prices surged past USD 100 per barrel on Monday after the US announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose by USD 7.60, or 8 percent, to reach USD 102.80, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed to USD 104.88. The blockade is expected to halt the flow of approximately 2 million barrels of oil per day. Energy experts warn of continued market instability, as Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has vowed to treat any incoming military vessels as a violation of the ceasefire and respond with force.

US to Impose Blockade on Iranian Ports in Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump announced that a blockade on Iranian ports within the Strait of Hormuz would begin on Monday. This follows the collapse of peace talks in Pakistan, where Vice President JD Vance stated that Tehran rejected terms regarding nuclear disarmament. The blockade targets all vessels traveling to or from Iranian harbors, though ships passing through to other countries will not be obstructed. Iran has condemned the move as illegal and threatened to retaliate by attacking ports in other Gulf nations. This escalation follows the joint US-Israeli military strikes that occurred on February 28.

China Rejects “Malicious” Claims of Supplying Weapons to Iran

China has dismissed reports of supplying advanced weaponry to Iran as “baseless and malicious.” Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Monday that Beijing maintains a strictly controlled and responsible military export policy. The denial follows warnings from US President Donald Trump, who threatened a 50 percent tariff hike if China provided military aid to Tehran. While intelligence reports suggested China might send air defense systems, Jiakun emphasized that China adheres to international obligations and its own export laws. Despite deep economic ties as a major buyer of Iranian oil, China maintains it is not involved in irresponsible military interventions.

Iran Executed 1,639 People in 2025, Reaching 35-Year High

Human rights organizations IHR and ECPM reported that Iran executed at least 1,639 people in 2025, the highest number since 1989. This represents a 68 percent increase from the 975 executions recorded in 2024. The report highlights that an average of more than 4 people were hanged daily, including 48 women. Activists allege that the Iranian government is using the death penalty as a tool for political control and to suppress dissent. Despite the ongoing war with the US and Israel, the execution of protesters and ethnic minorities has reportedly continued at an accelerated pace.

Trump Criticizes NATO for Lack of Support in Iranian Conflict

US President Donald Trump expressed deep dissatisfaction with NATO, calling the alliance a “paper tiger” for failing to provide expected military support during the conflict with Iran. He complained that while the US has spent trillions protecting Europe from Russian threats, the allies were “not there” during the current crisis. Reports suggest the Trump administration is considering withdrawing some of the 84,000 US troops stationed across Europe or moving military bases from uncooperative nations. Despite his rhetoric, legal experts note that withdrawing from NATO would require a two-thirds Senate majority or a formal act of Congress, which remains unlikely.