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 Lays Foundation for Rs 1 Billion Bhanu Literature Park

President Ram Chandra Paudel laid the foundation stone for the Bhanu Literature Park at Chundi Ramgha, Tanahu, the birthplace of Adikavi (the first poet) Bhanu Bhakta Acharya, on Monday. The ambitious project, envisioned as a Saptadham (Seven Pilgrimages) for literary tourism, is estimated to cost approximately Rs 1 billion upon completion. Mayor Ananda Raj Tripathi confirmed that Rs 200 million has been allocated by the Federal Ministry of Urban Development for the current fiscal year. This initial funding will cover the upgrading of the motor road and the construction of a 54-foot statue of the poet. To date, Rs 18 million has been spent on the master plan.

Supreme Court Scraps Foreign Medical Funding for Former VIPs

The Supreme Court has invalidated a legal provision that allowed former high-ranking officials to claim state funding for medical treatment abroad. The Constitutional Bench ruled on Monday that Section 12(1) of the Civil Relief, Compensation, and Financial Assistance Relationship (Second Amendment) Procedure 2016 is unconstitutional. This provision previously covered the foreign medical expenses of former presidents, prime ministers, and other “VIPs.” While Section 9 of the Remuneration and Facilities of the President and Vice President Act 2017, which allows funding for sitting officials if a medical board recommends foreign treatment, remains intact, the court’s decision effectively ends the practice of using state funds for the overseas treatment of former dignitaries.

Supreme Court Summons Government Over Squatter Evictions

The Supreme Court has ordered both the government and petitioners to appear for a discussion regarding the forced eviction of informal settlements along the Bagmati River. On Monday, a bench led by Justice Shanti Singh Thapa directed the authorities to provide a written explanation for the evictions. The order follows a writ petition filed by several youth leaders and activists, including Arnab Chaudhary and Ojaswi Bhattarai, who seek to halt the demolition of settlements in Thapathali, Sinamangal, and other riverbank areas. The court has scheduled the discussion for May 5 to determine whether an interim order should be issued to stop the ongoing clearance operations.

Class 12 Final Examinations Begin for 418,800 Students

The final examinations for Grade 12 of the secondary level have commenced today, Monday. According to the National Examination Board (NEB), a total of 418,800 examinees are participating nationwide. The cohort includes 332,178 regular students and 85,830 partial students. Notably, 36 students from Everest School in Japan are also appearing for the exams starting today. The NEB has designated 1,421 examination centers across the country, with the schedule set to conclude on May 10.

Education Ministry Issues Circular to Protect Displaced Students

Minister for Education, Science, and Technology Sasmit Pokharel has issued a six-point circular aimed at securing the academic interests of students affected by the relocation of informal settlements. Following the directive, the Center for Education and Human Resource Development (CEHRD) instructed local levels to facilitate the transfer of displaced students to nearby schools. The circular specifically emphasizes assisting candidates appearing for the Grade 12 examinations that began on Monday, ensuring they can reach their centers without hindrance. Local authorities have also been requested to manage school mergers where necessary and report any grievances or suggestions from affected students directly to the CEHRD for effective coordination.

Over 800 Displaced Families Register at Dasharath Stadium

Following the demolition of informal settlements, 822 families have registered their details at a government help desk established at Dasharath Stadium as of Monday afternoon. These families comprise 3,367 individuals, including approximately 1,500 children. Displaced residents from Thapathali, Gairigaon, and Sinamangal are arriving to document their status and seek assistance. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City, in coordination with the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of Bagmati Civilization, is conducting health check-ups and providing meals at the stadium. Registered families are currently being relocated to five designated “holding centers,” including various hotels and lodges, as authorities work to manage their temporary housing and welfare.

10 Detained for Assaulting Shobha Pathak at Maitighar

Police have detained 10 individuals, including the wife of CPN (UML) leader Mahesh Basnet, following an assault on Shobha Pathak at Maitighar Mandala on Monday. The incident, which was captured in a viral video, shows a group of women physically attacking and pulling the hair of Pathak, who has publicly accused Basnet of rape and forced abortion. SP Pawan Bhattarai of the District Police Range confirmed the arrests and stated that the individuals involved were taken to a hospital for examination before further legal proceedings. The confrontation at the protest site has sparked significant attention on social media, highlighting the escalating tensions surrounding the high-profile allegations.

Rabi Lamichhane Claims Squatters Voluntarily Supported Evictions

Rabi Lamichhane, Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), stated on Monday that informal settlers themselves supported recent government eviction efforts due to an atmosphere of trust. Addressing journalists, Lamichhane acknowledged the immediate hardships faced by displaced families but argued that these challenges are necessary for long-term generational change. He emphasized that while he might not visit every household as a leader, the policies of an RSP government would reach and benefit every home. Lamichhane maintained that if the public believes the government is acting in their ultimate interest, they will cooperate even during difficult transitions, shifting the focus from individual election cycles to the prosperity of future generations.

Vishmaraj Angdembe Elected Nepali Congress Parliamentary Party Leader

Vishmaraj Angdembe was elected unopposed as the leader of the Nepali Congress parliamentary party during a meeting held on Monday. His election follows a prior decision by the Nepali Congress’ Central Work Execution Committee to nominate him for the post, which was formally endorsed by the parliamentary party members today. Angdembe’s transition to the leadership role marks a key internal development for the party’s legislative wing.

Ministry Mandates Use of Government Halls for Meetings

The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation has issued a directive requiring all its subordinate offices to conduct meetings, seminars, and training sessions within their own office premises or government-owned facilities. The circular, issued by the Planning Monitoring and Evaluation Division on Monday, strictly prohibits the use of private hotels and resorts for such events. This move is aimed at making government expenditure more frugal and ensuring that administrative activities are result-oriented and cost-effective. All divisions, commissions, departments, and authorities under the ministry must now utilize existing assembly halls and training rooms for official functions.

Narayan Datta Paudel Appointed as New APF Inspector General

The Government of Nepal has promoted Additional Inspector General (AIG) Narayan Datta Paudel to the position of Inspector General (IGP) of the Armed Police Force (APF). The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister at Singha Durbar on Monday. Paudel, who became an AIG in around mid-2022, will succeed the current IGP Raju Aryal, who is set to retire on May 1 after completing a four-year term. Under existing regulations, Paudel’s tenure is expected to last approximately 23 months. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Customs Regulations 2026 and listed the Security Printing Center as a public entity eligible for commercial trade.

Communications Minister and Japanese Ambassador Discuss Tech Ties

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Bikram Timilsina met with the Japanese Ambassador to Nepal, Maeda Toru, at the ministry on Monday. Commemorating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the two discussed enhancing cooperation in information technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cyber security. Minister Timilsina highlighted the government’s priority on digital governance and invited Japanese investment in cloud infrastructure and e-governance systems. Ambassador Toru emphasized the potential of linking Nepal’s young workforce with Japanese technological expertise, noting that nearly 300,000 Nepali currently reside in Japan, many of whom are engaged in the tech and engineering sectors.

Nepal and China Discuss Educational and Digital Cooperation

Minister for Education, Science, and Technology Sasmit Pokharel held a courtesy meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, at the ministry in Singha Durbar on Monday. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of science, technology, and sports. Minister Pokharel expressed a desire for increased partnership in developing school infrastructure and institutionalizing digital learning systems. Additionally, he urged the Chinese government to expedite ongoing educational projects and promote scholarships tailored to the interests of Nepali youth. Ambassador Maoming reaffirmed China’s commitment to multifaceted cooperation and deepening the historical ties between the two nations.

BP Highway Reopens After 3 Days of Flood Repairs

The BP Highway, which had been obstructed since Saturday evening, has finally reopened for traffic as of 3:30 PM on Monday. Severe flooding in the Roshi River had washed away several diversions at multiple locations, including Chaukidanda, Narke, and Nepalthok. It took the Road Division Office and contracting companies three days of continuous maintenance to restore the connection. Currently, vehicles are operating via temporary diversions constructed along the banks of the Roshi River. While the route is functional, authorities remain vigilant as the temporary structures are susceptible to further weather-related damage.

KMC Directs Protection of 3,496 Households’ Worth of Cleared Land

Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has instructed stakeholders to fence and protect public land recently cleared of informal settlements along the Bagmati River. During an inspection of Thapathali and Ichangu on Saturday, Dangol coordinated with the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of Bagmati Civilization to prevent re-encroachment. According to a 2022 report, there are 3,496 households residing in informal settlements along the valley’s riverbanks, including 2,245 within KMC limits. In Ward No. 11 alone, 136 out of 332 huts in Thapathali have been demolished, while further clearances were conducted in Ward No. 9 on April 25.

Kathmandu Air Quality Improves to 141 AQI After Rain

The air quality in the Kathmandu Valley has shown signs of improvement after reaching “Very Unhealthy” levels last week. The Air Quality Index (AQI), which peaked at 247 on Thursday due to dry weather and forest fires, dropped to 141 today, placing it in the “Unhealthy” category. While an AQI above 100 remains concerning, environmental experts noted that recent rainfall has helped settle dust and smoke accumulated in the atmosphere. Meteorologists anticipate further showers starting Wednesday, which are expected to continue reducing pollutants. Authorities continue to urge the adoption of sustainable development measures to manage the recurring pollution crises effectively.

Conservationists Collect 195 Gharial Eggs from Rapti River

Chitwan National Park (CNP) officials have collected 195 eggs from seven gharial crocodile nests along the Rapti River. The collection, which began on March 13, targets nests in areas vulnerable to human activity or natural predators. According to Information Officer Abinash Thapa Magar, the eggs have been transferred to the Gharial Breeding Center for incubation. Last year, 232 eggs were retrieved from 18 nests. While the park usually monitors both the Rapti and Narayani rivers, efforts this year were concentrated solely on the Rapti. Once hatched, the crocodiles will be reared for five years before being released back into their natural habitat.

RSS Establishes Rs 300,000 Award Fund for Photojournalists

The National Photojournalists Group (NPG) Nepal marked the 99th National Photojournalism Day on Sunday with various programs and the launch of their annual photo calendar. During the event, an endowment fund of Rs 300,000 was established for an award in memory of the late wildlife photographer Chungwa Sherpa. Director General Chhabindra Parajuli of the Department of Information and Broadcasting announced plans to collaborate with photojournalists to establish a national photo bank to promote tourism and secure employment. Discussions also touched upon the need for life and camera insurance for photojournalists, as well as the challenges posed by AI and copyright infringements in the digital era.

Film ‘Lalibazar’ Faces Legal Challenge from Badi Community

A writ has been filed at the Patan High Court seeking to halt the release of the film Lalibazar, which is scheduled to premiere on May 1. Roshni Nepali Badi, representing the Badi community, filed the petition on Monday, alleging that the film misrepresents their community and presents a distorted narrative. While the production house, Shatkon Arts, claims the film portrays the struggles and resilience of Badi women, the petitioners maintain that the content is objectionable. The court has scheduled a hearing for Tuesday to address the request for a stay order. In response to the legal action, the film’s production team has organized an emergency press conference to clarify their position.

Jitu Nepal Announces Release Date for ‘I Am Jit Bahadur’

Comedian and actor Jitu Nepal has announced that his upcoming film, I Am Jit Bahadur, will hit theaters nationwide on June 19. The production team released several posters on Monday to confirm the date. Directed by Subhendu Ghosh, the film tells the story of a young man’s struggle to become an artist after moving from a village to the city. Nepal plays the lead role alongside Barsha Raut, with supporting performances by Priyanka Karki and Sandeep Chhetri. The project, produced under the banner of Karmabhumi Creation, completed its post-production work in India and will be distributed by RR Films.

6 Teams Select 84 Players for Kabaddi League Season 2

Six city-based teams have recruited a total of 84 players through a “Players Draft” for the second season of the Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL). The draft, held on Sunday, resulted in the signing of 54 Nepali and 30 international players. A total of 142 domestic athletes and 80 foreign players from 14 countries were categorized into three tiers for the selection process. The NKL, featuring teams like the Biratnagar Baahubali, defending champions Janakpur Knights, and Kathmandu Mavericks, is scheduled to begin on June 5 at the National Sports Council covered hall in Tripureshwor.

UAE Defeats Oman by 25 Runs in World Cup League 2 in TU Ground

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured a 25-run victory over Oman in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 match held at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Monday. Batting first, the UAE posted a formidable total of 268 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs, bolstered by a century from Aryansh Sharma, who scored 105 runs. In response, Oman was bowled out for 243 in 47.5 overs. Ajay Kumar was the standout bowler for the UAE, claiming 6 wickets for just 35 runs. Despite an unbeaten 58 from Vinayak Shukla, Oman fell short of the target.

Nepal Wins Bronze in Women’s Beach Kabaddi at Asian Games

The Nepalese women’s team secured a bronze medal in Beach Kabaddi at the 6th Asian Beach Games 2026 currently held in Sanya, China. Nepal’s journey ended in the semifinals following a narrow 46-43 defeat against Sri Lanka on Monday. In the other semifinal, India defeated Bangladesh, eventually claiming the gold medal by beating Sri Lanka 47-31 in the final. While Sri Lanka took the silver, Nepal and Bangladesh both finished the tournament with bronze medals, marking a significant achievement for Nepali sports on the continental stage.

Michael Biopic Shatters Global Opening Records

The new musical biopic on Michael Jackson has set a record for the biggest worldwide opening weekend for any biographical film, earning USD 217 million since its midweek release. It surpasses previous musical biopic records and outperforms recent major global openings. Audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive despite weaker critical response. The film emphasizes musical performances and early career milestones while excluding later controversies, following production changes and reshoots. With a reported budget of about $200 million, it ranks among the most expensive biopics ever made and signals continued momentum for music-driven box office hits.

Russia and North Korea Agree on Long-Term Military Cooperation

The Russian Ministry of Defense has announced a formal agreement with North Korea for “long-term” military cooperation. Following a meeting in Pyongyang on Monday, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov confirmed that a strategic plan for the period 2027 to 31 will be signed this year. North Korea has reportedly sent thousands of troops, missiles, and ammunition to support Russia’s war effort in Ukraine, specifically in the Kursk region. In exchange, analysts suggest Pyongyang is receiving economic aid, food, energy, and advanced military technology. The two nations previously signed a mutual defense pact in 2024, mandating immediate military assistance in the event of an attack on either party.

Armed Suspect in Washington Dinner Shooting Faces Court

A 31-year-old man accused of opening fire during a high-profile Washington dinner is set to appear in federal court as authorities pursue multiple charges, including assault on a federal officer and use of a firearm in a violent crime. The suspect allegedly attempted to breach security at the venue, prompting a rapid response that prevented further harm. One security agent was struck but protected by body armor and later released. Officials say the suspect was carrying multiple weapons and had outlined plans targeting senior government figures. The incident has renewed concerns over the security of top U.S. officials.