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.

Lumbini Lions Crowned NPL Season-2 Champions with Six-Wicket Victory Over Sudurpaschim Royals:
Lumbini Lions secured the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season-2 title by defeating Sudurpaschim Royals by six wickets at TU International Cricket Stadium, Kirtipur. Sudurpaschim, runner-up in the first edition, were restricted to 85 runs in 19.1 overs, with Ishan Pandey top-scoring 33. Lumbini chased the target in nine overs, losing four wickets. Dinesh Adhikari starred with 42 off 13 balls, supported by captain Rohit Paudel (16) and Niroshan Dickwella (11*). Hemanta Dhami, Avinash Bohora, and Dipendra Singh Airee claimed wickets for Sudurpaschim, while Sher Malla, Ruben Trampelman, and Rohit Paudel excelled for Lumbini. Lumbini received Rs 11 million, Sudurpaschim Rs 5.1 million.

PM Sushila Karki Congratulates Lumbini Lions on NPL Season-2 Victory:
Prime Minister Sushila Karki extended her congratulations to Lumbini Lions for winning the Nepal Premier League (NPL) Season-2 title. Posting on Facebook, the PM appreciated the efforts of all participating teams, organizers, and supporters, noting that their dedication has helped boost national confidence and enthusiasm for sports. Lumbini Lions clinched the championship by defeating Sudurpaschim Royals in the final match, marking a significant achievement in Nepal’s domestic cricket scene. The PM’s acknowledgment highlights the importance of sporting events in fostering team spirit and national pride, celebrating both athletic excellence and community engagement.

KP Sharma Oli Demands Investigation into Gen-Z Movement, Reinstatement of Dissolved House:
CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli called for a full investigation into the Gen-Z movement, insisting that those responsible for criminal acts during the protests must face accountability. Speaking at the 11th National General Convention in Bhaktapur, Oli criticized the government for acting against constitutional norms, including the formation of a government and dissolution of the House of Representatives without proper authorization. He stressed that sidelining elected representatives undermines democracy and alienates citizens from politics. Emphasizing a return to constitutional order, Oli reiterated UML’s demand for the reinstatement of the House of Representatives and restoration of democracy in Nepal.

Prachanda Calls for Unified Nepali Communist Party, Emphasizes Karnali Development:
Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party, emphasized building a unified party by learning from past mistakes during a unity assembly in Birendranagar. Highlighting support from Karnali, he recalled the merger of over 14 parties and long-standing unity talks with Madhav Nepal, culminating in the 12-point agreement with UML. Prachanda stressed developing Karnali’s culture, medicinal herbs, and water resources, while encouraging young Nepalese abroad to return. Co-coordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal highlighted the party’s role in protecting democracy and the republic, asserting that unified efforts will strengthen the party as a patriotic, people-focused, and independent political force.

Four Dead, Several Injured in Jeep Accident in Palpa’s Nisdi Rural Municipality:
A tragic jeep accident in Nisdi-4, Palpa on Friday claimed four lives, including three at the scene and one during treatment. The deceased are Om Kumari Khamcha (45), Hem Kumari Saru (36), Budhi Maya BK (31), and Sundar BK (34), with Sundar and Budhi Maya being a married couple. Eight others, including children Lavis and Prinsa, were injured; their conditions are stable. The jeep (Lu 1 Ja 3908) traveling from Arunkhola, Nawalpur to Rampur, overturned on an uphill road, falling 1,100 meters off the road. Three injured are hospitalized in Kawasoti and Bharatpur. Police have taken the driver into custody and are investigating.

Minister Mahabir Pun Urges Non-Political Leadership to Reform Nepal’s Universities:
Education Minister Mahabir Pun emphasized the need to remove political interference in Nepalese universities, advocating for the appointment of non-political, qualified individuals to leadership roles. Speaking at the Nepal Higher Education Foundation’s discussion on the “Policy Framework for Higher Education,” he highlighted that political maneuvering, especially with the Prime Minister serving as chancellor in 18 universities, has hindered academic quality, research, and institutional autonomy. Minister Pun announced steps to amend legislation to allow impartial appointments through boards or councils. Experts stressed merit-based, transparent selection processes as key to transforming universities into knowledge and innovation hubs, while the programme explored policy initiatives for higher education reform.

Election Commission Allots Symbols to 93 Parties for PR Vote in March 2026 House Election:
The Election Commission has finalized election symbols for parties contesting the proportional representation (PR) component of the House of Representatives election on March 5, 2026. Out of 100 applicants, 93 symbols were approved, with some parties sharing common symbols. Symbols and serial numbers were determined based on 2022 proportional votes, while new parties received symbols according to registration order. The first symbols include the sun, tree, star, bell, and plough, among others. Certain parties, such as Nepal Federal Socialist Party and Bahujan Ekta Party, will share symbols like the bus or millstone. The Commission stated the process ensures transparency and voter clarity.

Nepal’s IVF Sector Under Scrutiny as Alleged Exploitation of Minors Sparks Legal and Ethical Debate:
Allegations of underage egg extraction at Hope Fertility and Angel Fertility clinics have cast a shadow over Nepal’s IVF sector. Dr. Swati Sharma and five others were arrested, but the Attorney General’s Office declined to prosecute, citing insufficient evidence. A writ petition filed at the Supreme Court challenges this decision, citing rape, human trafficking, and medical abuse. Experts stress the need for strict regulation, clear consent procedures, and licensed donor centres, while cautioning against criminalizing legitimate egg donation. The case highlights legal gaps, ethical concerns, and the proliferation of IVF clinics, prompting urgent calls for comprehensive reproductive healthcare legislation in Nepal.

Nepal-China Diplomatic Ties 70th Anniversary Celebrated with Cultural Programmes in Chongqing:
Chongqing’s Yuzhong district hosted cultural programmes to mark the 70th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations. Organized in coordination with the Nepali Consulate General in Chengdu, the event featured exhibitions of Nepali products such as tea, coffee, incense candles, singing bowls, Thangka paintings, and felt and Pashmina goods. As part of the cultural exchange, Chinese artists performed on the traditional Guqin instrument, while Nepali students showcased traditional dances. Around 50 participants, including officials from the Yuzhong district government, Chongqing municipality, and the Nepal Tourism Board, attended the programme, highlighting the strengthening of cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Preparations Underway for 27th Pokhara Street Festival with Tight Security Measures:
The 27th Pokhara Street Festival will be held along Fewa Lake’s Lakeside from December 28 to January 1, aiming to promote tourism with the theme “Let’s eat, dance, and celebrate on the street.” Organised by REBAN Pokhara, the festival spans nearly three kilometres from Fishtail Gate to Khahare. Ahead of the event, organisers held discussions with heads of security agencies to strengthen arrangements. Kaski CDO Rudradevi Sharma assured tight security, while Nepal Army, police, and APF representatives committed to coordinated efforts. Strategies include road management and crowd control. Tourism officials and festival coordinators emphasised promoting the event nationally and internationally while preventing rule violations.

Rajesh Hamal Starrer Pravasi Jeevan to Release on Falgun 15, Showcases Nepali Diaspora Struggles:
The Nepali film Pravasi Jeevan, starring Rajesh Hamal, is set to release on Falgun 15. Two posters were unveiled showcasing Hamal alongside Sarita Lamichhane, Buddhi Tamang, Mahadev Adhikari, and Angela Basnet. Jointly directed by Shyam Kshetri and Ram Adhikari, the film explores the joys, struggles, and challenges of Nepali youth seeking a brighter future in the U.S., focusing on emotional and professional trials abroad. Featuring actors Gagan Suvedi, Lokesh Bhitrikoti, Divya Nyaupane, and others, the movie is written and scripted by Kshetri, with cinematography by Amrit Bisw, editing by Ram Adhikari, and music by Subas Sinchuri and Naveen Karki. Produced by Shyam Kshetri Production and National Media Production, it is distributed by RR Films.

Trailer of Historical Drama ‘Muglan’ Released, Highlights Youth Struggles Amid Political Turmoil:
The trailer for the upcoming Nepali film Muglan, releasing on Poush 10, was unveiled, offering a glimpse into its story set in 2052 BS. The 2-minute 24-second preview portrays political conflict, poverty, and the hardships forcing young people to migrate abroad, delivering an emotional narrative of struggle and deprivation. Written and directed by Ashish Dhakal, the film stars Prabhat Pal, Smarika Dhakal (making her debut), Ramchandra Adhikari, Dinesh DC, and others. Produced under Rihan Production by Goman Singh, with co-producer Rita Chaudhary, the movie features cinematography by Ajay Regmi, editing by Tara Thapa ‘Kimbhe’, background music by Ridam Kandel, and choreography by Devendra Kunwar.

Nepali Film ‘PR’ Highlights Students’ Struggle for Australian Residency and Home Loans:
The Nepali film PR, exploring the challenges students face in obtaining Australian permanent residency and coping with home loans, premiered on Friday with over 100 nationwide shows. Directed by Shobhit Basnet, the movie received praise for its storyline and performances. Produced under Salon Salina Films, the film stars R.A. Suraj Poudel, Vinita Karki, Rajan Kunwar, Pooja Chaudhary, Ashma Adhikari Mastani, Bimala Khatri, Ganesh Budhathoki, Max Krishna Thapa, and Naveen Ghayal, with special appearances by Neer Shah, Gauri Malla, and others. Key production credits include cinematography by Saurabh Sayami and Saurabh Lama, writing by Ganesh Budhathoki, editing by Bande Prasad, music by Manas Raj, and choreography by Ramji Lamichhane.

Trailer of Sci-Fi Thriller ‘Eklo’ Set to Released:
The trailer for the upcoming Nepali film Eklo, set to release on Poush 17, was unveiled in Kathmandu, highlighting themes of power struggles, police investigations, and advanced technology. Directed and written by Pradeep Shahi, the film features an ensemble cast including Pradeep Khadka, Vijay Lama, Sunil Thapa, Diya Pun, Benisha Hamal, Dinesh DC, and British actor Jamie Becken. Produced by the NRNA group with Pradeep Khadka as co-producer, Eklo showcases strong technical execution, with cinematography by Babu Shrestha, editing by Rupesh Tamang, music by Rohit Shakya, and action choreography by Raju Tamang. The film depicts a future where a deadly virus forces humanity to abandon Earth, with a New York premiere at the Museum of the Moving Image on December 28.

‘Gobar Ganesh’ Poster Reveals Unique Characters, Features Marichman Shrestha and Barsha Siwakoti:
The upcoming Nepali film Gobar Ganesh, set to release on Magh 1, unveiled its poster featuring Marichman Shrestha (‘Balchi Dhurbe’) and Barsha Siwakoti in distinctive roles. Barsha is shown driving a rickshaw while Balchi sits atop it, surrounded by trash and carrying a dustpan, suggesting their characters are involved in municipal sanitation or waste management. The background highlights dense houses reminiscent of Kirtipur city. Directed by Marichman Shrestha, who also stars in the film, Gobar Ganesh has completed filming and is in final post-production. The movie also stars Vinod Nyaupane, Padam Tamang, Nirmal Sharma, Santosh Bania, and others, promising a diverse ensemble cast.

Rohit Paudel Leads Lumbini Lions to NPL 2 Title, Claims Top Honors:
Captain Rohit Paudel played a pivotal role in guiding Lumbini Lions to the Nepal Premier League (NPL) second edition title, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. He finished as the second-highest run-scorer of the tournament with 276 runs in 10 matches, narrowly surpassing Sudurpaschim Royals’ opener Vinod Bhandari, who scored 260 runs including a half-century. Paudel also took 10 wickets, including three in the final, earning him a J-5 Omoda EV car worth Rs 6.1 million and a Pulsar motorcycle. Lumbini’s Sher Malla was named Emerging Player, while Viratnagar captain Sandeep Lamichhane was the best bowler, each taking 17 wickets and receiving motorcycles.

Neglect and Poor Coordination Threaten Nepali Women’s Football: A Reality Check from SAFF Club Championship:
In the ongoing SAFF Women’s Club Championship at Dasharath Stadium, APF Club struggled despite dominating play, highlighting the progress of neighboring Bhutanese football and exposing shortcomings in Nepali women’s club and national football. APF, representing Nepal as league champions, faced logistical and scheduling challenges, with players arriving just a day before matches due to overlapping national team duties. Poor coordination by ANFA, low administrative presence, and declining spectator interest reflect a widening disconnect between fans and the federation. Without urgent reforms, supporter disengagement may deepen, jeopardizing the growth of women’s football and national club development in Nepal.

First Indoor Skating Competition Held in Rukumkot, Niraj Malla and Jenisha Shrestha Win Senior Titles:
Rukumkot hosted its first indoor skating competition, with Niraj Malla claiming the senior men’s title, followed by Navin Pun and Sushil Shrestha in second and third. In the senior women’s category, Jenisha Shrestha won first place, with Sapana Shrestha and Varsha Roka taking second and third. Winners in the senior categories received cash prizes of Rs 10,000, 7,500, and 5,000, along with medals and certificates. In juniors, Krish Bikram and Yunika Bik won the men’s and women’s titles respectively. The event highlighted the growing popularity of skating in Nepal, with organizers emphasizing the need for competitions to promote, develop, and professionalize the sport.

Delhi Enforces Stage IV Air Pollution Measures as AQI Nears Hazardous Levels:
The Commission for Air Quality Management’s Sub-Committee on GRAP has enforced Stage IV measures across the National Capital Region amid deteriorating air quality. Stage IV, labelled ‘Severe+’, activates when Delhi’s AQI crosses 450; Saturday evening readings showed 448, with a 24-hour average of 349. Forecasts indicate severe pollution will continue Sunday, improving slightly by Monday. The GRAP framework has been revised: measures previously in Stage 4 now apply at Stage 3 (AQI 301–400), reducing office attendance to 50% and mandating work from home for central offices. Stage 3 measures have moved to Stage 2, triggering staggered timings at AQI 201–300.

EU Freezes €210 Billion of Russian Central Bank Assets to Boost Ukraine and Strengthen Sanctions:
In a decisive response to Russia’s war in Ukraine, the European Union has triggered an emergency treaty clause to freeze €210 billion of Russian Central Bank assets indefinitely, bypassing the traditional six-month sanctions renewal. €185 billion is held at Euroclear, with €25 billion in five member states. The move shields the funds from potential vetoes and preserves leverage over Moscow. Previously, sanctions renewals risked collapse due to dissent from Hungary. Using Article 122, the EU now acts by qualified majority, a mechanism previously applied to COVID-19 and the energy crisis, signaling strong support for Ukraine on both battlefield and negotiation fronts.

Trump Administration Proposes Security Guarantees to Ukraine Amid Territorial Talks with Russia:
The Trump administration is reportedly willing to offer Ukraine NATO-style, Congress-approved security guarantees if Kyiv agrees to territorial concessions to Russia, Axios reported. Ukraine has rejected concessions, calling instead for a ceasefire, which Moscow dismisses as a stalling tactic. Proposed U.S. guarantees would cover roughly 80% of Ukrainian territory and include a major prosperity package. Moscow signals conditional openness to security discussions but insists Ukraine must stay out of NATO, demilitarize, and accept new territorial realities, including Donbass. U.S. officials view Zelensky’s referendum remarks on territorial concessions as progress, though Russia sees them as a ploy to prolong conflict.