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.

Election Commission Prints Over 18.2 Million Ballot Papers for 142 Constituencies:

The Election Commission has printed ballot papers for 142 electoral constituencies across 66 districts so far, with the total number reaching 18,230,000. Printing is underway at the Janak Education Materials Centre in Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, at a rate of around 1.5 million ballots per day. Ballots for 23 constituencies in 11 districts, including the Kathmandu Valley, are yet to be printed and are expected to be completed within days. The EC has already printed 20.83 million proportional representation ballots and dispatched ballots to Karnali districts, Assistant Spokesperson Prakash Neupane said.

CoAS Ashok Raj Sigdel Directs Nepali Army to Ensure Peaceful March 5 Elections:

Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel has issued a special directive to ensure the March 5 House of Representatives election is conducted peacefully. Speaking at a special programme at Army Headquarters on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri and the 262nd Army Day, he urged all ranks of the Nepali Army to effectively carry out their duties, including maintaining election security. Sigdel also stressed the importance of teaching Nepal’s history, culture, and traditions during military training. On the same day, he paid tribute to fallen soldiers at Bir Memorial, Chhauni, and Sainik Manch, Tundikhel, and honoured the families of martyrs.

Election Commission Begins Distribution of 51 Types of Election Materials Across Districts:

The Election Commission of Nepal has started transporting 51 essential election materials to districts ahead of the upcoming House of Representatives polls, excluding rubber mats from the original 52-item list. Key items including voter lists, ballot papers, indelible ink markers, swastik stamps, stamp pads, and ink have already been procured and dispatched. Materials for several districts in Karnali Province have reached their destinations, while others are in transit, with plans to cover most districts by the first week of Falgun. Ballot printing for proportional representation is complete, and first-past-the-post ballots for 142 constituencies across 66 districts are either printed or nearing completion.

Gagan Thapa Stakes Risk in Sarlahi-4, Asserts Nepali Congress’ Leadership in Madhesh:

Nepali Congress president Gagan Thapa stated that despite having a safer option in Kathmandu-4, he chose to contest Sarlahi-4, taking a political risk to strengthen the party’s presence in Madhesh. Speaking at a party event in Ramnagar, he emphasized that Congress should be the leading political force in the region, while regional and other parties should play supporting roles. Thapa clarified that the responsibility of leading Madhesh does not lie with the UML or Maoist parties. Highlighting the party’s deep roots in the Madhesh region, he reinforced Nepali Congress’ claim as the central political authority in the area.

Prachanda Warns Nepali Voters Against Destructive Forces, Points to Bangladesh Example:

Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, coordinator of the Nepal Communist Party, addressed a public gathering in Rukum East, urging voters to defeat forces spreading corruption, misrule, oppression, and violence. He cited Bangladesh’s recent elections, where chaos-makers lost and stability-focused candidates won, as a lesson for Nepal. Prachanda noted that the people of Rolpa-Rukum already understand the consequences of arson and repression, and the rest of the country will follow. He pledged to establish Rukum East as a model for development and socialism, highlighting successful local initiatives like the Bharatpur model as inspiration.

CPN-UML Highlights 30 Reasons to Elect KP Sharma Oli in Jhapa-5:

The Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has released a 30-point appeal urging voters in Jhapa-5 to support party chair KP Sharma Oli. The appeal emphasizes national sovereignty, teacher quota adjustments, and rights restoration for citizens. It also focuses on youth empowerment through technical education, skill development, and self-employment. Economic revitalization, agricultural productivity, and infrastructure modernization—including the completion of the Nepal-China Friendship Industrial Park and the development of Damak, Gauradaha, and Gauriganj into smart cities—are highlighted as key reasons to vote for Oli in the upcoming election.

RPP President Rajendra Lingden Warns Nepal Trapped in Geopolitical Web, Urges Thoughtful Voting:

Rastriya Prajatantra Party chairman Rajendra Lingden claimed Nepal is caught in a geopolitical trap, warning that the country’s sovereignty and decision-making power are slipping from the hands of its citizens. Speaking at a party event in Kathmandu-2, he urged voters to consider ideas and principles rather than appearances or age when casting ballots. Lingden criticized the current system, asserting that republic, secularism, and federalism have failed to bring real change, as old leaders dominate major parties. Highlighting foreign influence over Nepal’s political leadership, he emphasized the need for new understanding and principled alternatives to protect the nation’s future.

Nepali Congress Pledges Responsible Campaigning, Focus on Public Reforms and Grassroots Engagement:

Nepali Congress (NC) Spokesperson Devraj Chalise emphasized the party’s commitment to accept the people’s verdict and uphold democratic responsibility. Speaking at the NC central office, Chalise outlined plans to engage citizens at the grassroots level, promoting a revised, pro-public administration agenda. He stressed that social media opinions may not reflect actual votes and highlighted the party’s efforts to solicit public input for reforms. NC will hold a mass meeting in Janakpur on February 18 and unveil its election commitment paper on Sunday. The party also affirmed strict adherence to the Election Commission’s code of conduct while campaigning respectfully door-to-door.

Kathmandu’s Worsening Air Pollution Strains Hospitals as Respiratory Illnesses Surge:

Bir Hospital in Kathmandu is facing critical overcrowding as patients with respiratory illnesses wait for hours to access inpatient care, with wards fully occupied. Since January, deteriorating air quality in the Kathmandu Valley has caused a spike in pneumonia, asthma, influenza, and bronchitis cases, affecting children and adults alike. PM2.5 levels averaged around 50 µg/m³ between December 2025 and February 2026, exceeding WHO safety thresholds. Vehicle emission testing has been halted since June 2025, worsening pollution. Doctors warn of both short- and long-term health risks and advise preventive measures such as masks, handwashing, avoiding crowds, and social distancing.

RPP’s Election Manifesto Focuses on Monarchy, Two-Tier Governance, and Hindu State:

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party has released its manifesto for the March 5 House of Representatives election, centering on reinstating the monarchy, reforming the electoral system, and replacing the provincial structure with a two-tier governance model—strong central government and empowered local levels. The party advocates a Vedic Sanatan Hindu state ensuring religious freedom and interfaith harmony, along with non-party-based local governance. Its economic agenda emphasizes hydropower, tourism, agriculture, IT, and leveraging the skills and capital of Nepalis abroad. Guided by the “Prithvi Path” philosophy, RPP aims to build a strong, prosperous, and developed Nepal.

Prachanda Visits Historic Chunbang Site During Rukum East Election Campaign:

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party, visited the historic Chunbang site in Bheri Danda, Rukum East, while campaigning for the upcoming House of Representatives election. Chunbang hosted the 2005 central committee meeting that adopted the democratic republic proposal and reduced the committee from 95 to 35 members, marking a milestone in Nepal’s political history. Prachanda observed the rooms where he and his family stayed and acknowledged their contributions to the revolutionary movement. Highlighting Rukum’s role in advancing peace and the republican process, he also conducted voter outreach in Gairigaun, Chunbang, and Taksera.

Nepali Congress to Release Election “Pledge Paper” Tomorrow, Promises Action-Oriented Agenda:

Nepali Congress will unveil its election “pledge paper” at a press conference in Sanepa tomorrow, marking a shift from traditional manifestos, party spokesperson Devaraj Chalise said. Unlike past declarations, the pledge paper will focus only on achievable commitments and include a checklist of completed work. It will also outline yearly goals, with party president sharing messages via video. Formal campaigning begins on Falgun 4 nationwide, with a major rally in Janakpur on Falgun 6. Chalise emphasized a civilized, respectful campaign style, adherence to the electoral code, and the party’s commitment to dialogue, public engagement, and promoting a democratic environment.

Foreign Student Enrollment in Nepal’s Medical Education Hits Record High; MBBS Seats Almost Full:

Nepal’s medical colleges are witnessing unprecedented interest from foreign students, with 743 students enrolling for the MBBS program in the new academic session starting Falgun 13. The Medical Education Commission allocated 749 seats for foreign students, leaving only seven for Nepali students—the first time nearly all foreign seats have been filled. Private colleges dominate foreign enrollment, with top institutions like Chitwan’s College of Medical Sciences and Manipal Medical College allotted 65 and 59 seats respectively. Most foreign students are from India, followed by Sri Lanka, Maldives, South Korea, Oman, Australia, and the US. Enrollment is expected to bring Rs 7.43 billion into Nepal this year.

Thousands of Nepalis in Greece Struggle Without Passports:

Thousands of Nepalis in Greece face severe hardships due to expired or missing passports, affecting their work, healthcare, banking, and legal status. Many entered Greece through irregular channels, often paying traffickers 1,500–4,000 euros, and now live in fear of deportation while working in harsh conditions on farms. Cases include Tikaraj Pandhak supervising 136 Nepalis, with dozens passportless, and Kumari Magar living in substandard accommodation for nearly a year. The Nepalese embassy in Vienna, responsible for Greece, is coordinating a mobile passport camp expected in March. Officials emphasize urgent action to restore legal documentation and protect Nepalis’ rights abroad.

Ujyalo Nepal Party Chair Kulman Ghising Claims New Vision Will Drive Nepal’s Development:

Ujyalo Nepal Party chairman Kulman Ghising criticized established political parties as ineffective, asserting that only a new force with a clear vision can advance Nepal’s development. Speaking at a special party event, he said the party emerged from the Gen-Z movement and represents fresh leadership, unlike “tested” older parties that failed to achieve economic transformation despite political change over 75 years. Ghising predicted Ujyalo Nepal Party would become the country’s top party in provincial and local elections over the next 15–16 months. He called on citizens to vote for his party to combat unemployment, corruption, poor governance, and inequality and to foster economic growth and good governance.

JSP-N Chair Upendra Yadav Claims Increased Public Support Ahead of Election:

Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP-N) Nepal Chairman Upendra Yadav has claimed a rise in public support for his party in the upcoming elections. Speaking at an event organized by the National Press Club in Kathmandu, Yadav said the party enjoys a more favorable environment compared to the previous election, attributing the boost to stronger organizational unity following party mergers. He emphasized that politics should focus on issues, ideas, and principles, noting that JSP-N has clearly communicated its stance on national and local matters. Yadav also alleged attempts to create divisions between the new and old generations in Nepali politics.

RPP Leader Kamal Thapa Calls Nepali Congress a Carrier of Leftist Ideology, Reaffirms Support for Monarchy:

Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Kamal Thapa has described the Nepali Congress as a carrier of leftist ideology and power in Nepal’s national politics. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu, Thapa noted that while Nepali society is rooted in Vedic values, traditions, and culture, political forces like communism, Marxism, and socialism have dominated the country, creating contradictions. He stated that his ideological stance sees politics from a left-oriented perspective while recognizing these societal values. Thapa reiterated his belief in the necessity of a Hindu state with a monarchy to guide Nepal toward the right path.

Election Commission Seeks Explanation from NCP Candidate Barshaman Pun Over Code of Conduct Violation in Rolpa:

The Election Commission has asked Nepali Communist Party candidate Barshaman Pun to explain alleged violations of the election code during his door-to-door campaign in Rolpa. Pun reportedly held a program inside a school compound, including music and dance, which drew complaints from locals and opposition leaders, some citing misuse of government vehicles. The commission’s notice asks whether his actions breached the code and, if proven, why legal action should not be taken. Election authorities have warned all candidates about strict adherence to the code, emphasizing immediate complaints and proper conduct, while security arrangements involve the Nepali Army, Police, Armed Police, and Election Police.

Series of Murders and Suicides Sparks Fear in Madhesh; 3 Bodies Found in a Week in Dhanusha:

Fear has gripped Madhesh as a series of murders and suspicious deaths continue. In Dhanusha alone, three bodies were discovered in one week. A young man was found hanged near Roiyaha Pond, while two unidentified individuals—a woman near a roadside in Deuri Parwaha and another in Janakpur—were also found dead. Police suspect homicide in all three cases and have launched separate investigations. Madhesh police report 56 murders in the first six months of the current fiscal year, including 26 men, 18 women, and 12 children, highlighting a disturbing rise in violence in the province, primarily linked to family disputes, social media, and drug abuse.

Nepali Embassy Abu Dhabi Hosts Health Awareness Programme for Migrant Workers:

The Nepali Embassy in Abu Dhabi organized an interaction program addressing the physical and mental health challenges faced by Nepali migrant workers in the UAE. Twenty-five Nepali medical specialists highlighted common issues, including hypertension, cardiac and kidney problems, and mental health disorders, noting mental health concerns are particularly high. Doctors identified limited health awareness, workplace environment knowledge, insurance understanding, and language barriers as key obstacles to care. Recommendations included biannual check-ups, hydration, avoiding alcohol, pre-departure medical exams, and orientation on insurance, climate, and safety. Ambassador Tej Bahadur Chhetri praised doctors and workers, pledging the Embassy’s continued support for health awareness initiatives.

Massive Maha Shivaratri Preparations Underway at Pashupatinath Temple:

Preparations for Maha Shivaratri at Pashupatinath Temple have intensified, with sadhus and ascetics arriving from Nepal, India, and other countries. The Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) organized a procession on the festival eve, welcoming both local and international devotees. PADT estimates around 800,000 visitors and 4,000 sadhus during the festival. To manage the crowds, the Trust has set up four queues, designated pedestrian and emergency lanes, and arranged temporary accommodation, food, security, sanitation, and health services. The arrangements aim to ensure orderly worship and smooth management, highlighting the temple’s capacity to handle one of Hinduism’s largest religious celebrations.

Grand Shovayattra Held at Pashupatinath Ahead of Maha Shivaratri:

A grand Shovayattra was organized today in the premises of the Pashupatinath Temple on the eve of Maha Shivaratri. The auspicious procession was organized by the Pashupati Area Development Trust and featured a vibrant participation of domestic and foreign devotees, including Sadhus, Saints, and Samans. The spiritual procession passed through most parts of the temple complex and drew a massive crowd. Maha Shivaratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the waning moon in Falgun. The Trust has completed all preparations for devotees.

Kaski District Identifies 56 Highly Sensitive Polling Stations Ahead of Elections:

Ahead of the upcoming elections, Kaski district has classified 56 polling stations as highly sensitive out of 153 across its three constituencies. According to Assistant Chief District Officer Shiva Lamsal, an additional 54 are sensitive and 43 normal. In Constituency-1, 19 are highly sensitive, 28 sensitive, and 14 normal; in Constituency-2, seven are highly sensitive, eight sensitive, and 18 normal; while Constituency-3 has 30 highly sensitive, 18 sensitive, and 11 normal stations. On-site monitoring is underway to evaluate infrastructure, location, and other factors. A total of 49 candidates are contesting for 308,572 registered voters in the district.

Modi River in Parbat Faces Crisis as Hydropower Projects Fail to Release Minimum Flow:

Four hydropower projects along the Modi River in Parbat—including Modi Khola, Madhyam Modi, Lower Modi Khola, and Lower Modi ‘A’—are accused of failing to release the legally mandated minimum 25% river flow, leaving nearly 12 kilometers of the riverbed dry. Local authorities and residents report severe impacts on aquatic life, including the near disappearance of the Asala fish, and hardships for riverside communities. Despite repeated requests and monitoring by Modi Rural Municipality, compliance has been limited. Officials warn that ongoing water diversion threatens settlements and the ecosystem, while hydropower operators insist they are following required standards.

Tourism, Infrastructure, and Climate Change Dominate Manang HoR Election Campaign:

Election campaigning has intensified in Manang as the House of Representatives poll approaches. With 19 days remaining, candidates from the Nepali Congress, Nepali Communist Party, and Mongol National Organisation are vying for voter support in the single-constituency district. Tourism, road connectivity, infrastructure development, and climate change mitigation dominate campaign agendas. NC candidate Tek Bahadur Gurung emphasizes road expansion, hydropower, and climate resilience, while NCP candidate Yashoda Subedi Gurung focuses on tourism conservation and alternative trekking routes. About 7,000 voters will cast ballots from 29 polling centres.

‘Friends Cinema’ Expands to Ilam, Bringing Modern Multiplex Experience to Eastern Hills:

Following success in Dharan and Butwal, Friends Cinema is expanding to Ilam, establishing its third branch in Ilam Municipality–7. The new multiplex, costing around NPR 3.5 crore, features a single screen accommodating 190 viewers and will begin regular shows this Friday. Director Ashish Tamang said the investment targets audiences in hill districts lacking modern cinema facilities, aiming to broaden Nepal’s film market beyond major cities. By providing high-quality cinema infrastructure at the district level, Friends Cinema hopes to boost domestic box office revenue and plans to extend its network to other districts in the future.

Nepali Film ‘Aa Bata Ama’ Nears NPR 9 Crore Mark, Wins Hearts at Box Office:

Directed by Chandra Pant, the Nepali film ‘Aa Bata Ama’ has been performing strongly at the box office since its release on Magh 16, grossing NPR 8.72 crore so far through combined domestic and overseas collections. The film explores the emotional bonds between parents and children alongside the hardships of going abroad for work, resonating deeply with audiences. Produced by Arya Entertainment, it features actors Bipana Thapa, Pal Shah, Pradeep Rawat, and others. With a story and script by Pant and dialogues co-written with Abhimanyu Niravi and Amar Nyaupane, the film has achieved both commercial success and emotional impact.

Ramakrishna Dhakal’s Debut Production Malati Mangle Set for Baisakh Release:

Renowned Nepali singer Ramakrishna Dhakal is set to release his first film as a producer, Malati Mangle, on Baisakh 25. The release date was announced on Valentine’s Day with the unveiling of the film’s first-look poster. Directed by Praku Pandey, the film is a rural love story featuring Bijay Baral and Barsha Raut as a married couple. Produced by Rani Films and Uni Entertainment, the movie also stars Maxam Gaudel and Prakash Ghimire, among others.

Jhingedau 2 Wraps Shooting, Targets Dashain Release:

The Nepali film Jhingedau 2, directed by Gyanendra Deuja, has officially completed its shooting after 63 days. The final scene was filmed in Chitwan on Wednesday, with earlier schedules held across multiple locations including Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Tanahun, Bandipur, Dolakha, and Palung. Deuja stated that the sequel stays true to the spirit and success of the first film without creative compromise. Like its predecessor, the film is described as a fully family-oriented entertainer and is slated for release during the upcoming Dashain festival.

Actor Neer Shah Returns to Direction with Film Kamala Miss After a Decade:

Veteran actor Neer Shah has returned to film direction after nearly ten years with his eighth directorial venture, Kamala Miss. The film’s shooting officially began on Friday following a ceremonial inauguration in Imadol, Lalitpur. Shah last directed Seto Bagh in 2015. Inspired by the classic Nepali play Kohi Kina Barbad Hos by late literary figure Bijay Malla, the film explores sensitive themes of child psychology, parental responsibility, love, and motherhood, featuring an ensemble cast including Shah himself.

Shobhit Basnet Signs Deal to Direct New Film in Australia:

Veteran Nepali filmmaker Shobhit Basnet, once known as a box-office hitmaker, is preparing to direct a new film despite a decade of commercial setbacks. After his recent film PR failed at the box office, Basnet has signed a formal agreement with Australia-based A to Z Cleaning Suppliers, led by Krishna Thapa, to helm a new project. The film will feature one male lead and two female leads, with casting and title to be announced soon. Produced under Salone-Salina Films, 60 percent of the movie will be shot in Australia and the rest in Jumla, Nepal. Basnet will begin filming after completing the Comedy Darbar Australia tour in March.

Official Poster and Release Date Revealed for Nepali Film ‘Malati Mangle’:

The official poster and release date for the Nepali narrative film ‘Malati Mangle’, produced by singer Ramkrishna Dhakal, have been unveiled. Set to release nationwide on Baisakh 25 , the poster showcases lead actors Bijay Baral and Barsha Raut in a warm, romantic rural setting, reflecting the film’s organic, village-centered love story. Directed and written by Praku Pandey, with screenplay and dialogues by Sanyog Guragai, the film features a large ensemble cast and is produced under Rani Music International Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with Uni Entertainment. Technical credits include cinematography by Mahesh Paudel and editing by Romi Mojez.

Nepal Cricket Coach Warns Social Media Distractions Affect World Cup Performance:

Nepal national cricket team head coach Stuart Law expressed concerns that players’ focus on social media is impacting their performance during the ICC T20 World Cup. Speaking before Nepal’s group-stage match against West Indies, Law emphasized that players should prioritize team needs and match demands over online attention. He acknowledged social media’s role in sponsorship and support but stressed that winning matches should come first, as online popularity naturally follows success. Law admitted he struggles to understand social media’s positive impact but seeks ways to balance players’ online engagement with maintaining cricket as their primary focus.

Nepal Captain Rohit Paudel Misses Practice, Set to Play Against West Indies:

Nepal’s cricket captain Rohit Paudel skipped Saturday’s practice session at Wankhede Stadium as he was given rest due to illness. Coach Stuart Law confirmed that Paudel is experiencing fever and stomach issues but expressed confidence that the captain would be fit for Nepal’s upcoming match against West Indies. Law reassured fans that there is no need for concern regarding Paudel’s availability, emphasizing that the team expects him to participate and lead in the crucial game, despite his temporary setback during training.

Associate Nations Prove Their Strength in T20 World Cup, Nepal Pushes England to the Edge:

The ongoing T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, has highlighted that associate nations can challenge established Test teams. Nepal narrowly lost to two-time champions England on the final ball, while Ireland defeated England and Italy claimed a historic win over Ireland in European qualifiers. Even India struggled against the U.S., losing early wickets despite home support. Players and coaches, including England’s all-rounder Will Jacks and West Indies coach Darren Sammy, acknowledge the rising competitiveness of associate teams. Experts emphasize that more exposure to top-level matches is crucial for associate nations to consistently challenge Test sides.

Nepal’s Shivali Gurung Wins Gold and Silver at Colombo ITF Junior Circuit:

Nepali tennis prodigy Shivali Gurung claimed a gold in doubles and a silver in singles at the ITF Junior Circuit in Colombo on June 30. In singles, she was narrowly defeated by Sri Lanka’s top player Dinara De Silva 6–4, 6–3, despite leading in both sets. Partnered with Han Park, Shivali triumphed in doubles to secure gold. She will next compete in Melbourne for the J100 event. Having previously won both singles and doubles in Pokhara, Shivali continues her consistent ITF performances and aims to play in the 2027 Junior Grand Slam, supported by her father Simant Gurung and sponsor Gyanendra Shrestha.

Controversy Clouds ANFA Leadership as Advance Elections Spark Legal and Governance Concerns:

The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) leadership faces mounting criticism for announcing advance central committee elections on Magh 28 despite 11-point legal directives from the National Sports Council (RACEP) and without completing local and provincial-level elections. Critics allege the move undermines transparency, accountability, and stakeholder rights, treating ANFA as private property rather than a national sporting body. The leadership’s disregard for legal procedures and ANFA’s own constitution has triggered concerns over institutional abuse, potential international reputational damage, and democratic deficits in Nepalese football governance. Former officials and district representatives have openly opposed the election process.

Departmental Teams Dominate NKL Draft as Second Season Gears Up:

For the second season of the Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL), departmental teams dominated the draft, with 35 players selected from the Army, Police, and Armed Police Force (APF). Out of 512 registered domestic players, 180 competed in trials, with 160 making the draft and 41 selected from the 25th National Kabaddi Championship. Provincial representation includes Madhesh (23), Lumbini (20), Bagmati (15), Sudurpaschim (15), Koshi (14), Karnali (13), and Gandaki (12). Six franchise-based city teams will be formed, with foreign players also joining. The league, managed by Astronics Management, is expanding grassroots development through the NKL NextGen Inter-School Championship.

Tarique Rahman’s BNP Wins Landslide, Prepares for Return to Power in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman hailed unity and democracy following the party’s decisive victory in the 13th national elections. Rahman, returning from 17 years of self-imposed exile, won Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6, while BNP secured 209 seats, surpassing the majority threshold. He dedicated the victory to those who “sacrificed for democracy” and called on citizens to prevent autocracy. The elections follow the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted former premier Sheikh Hasina, who remains in exile. Rahman is set to become prime minister, the first male in the post since 1991, as Bangladesh moves forward with constitutional reforms endorsed in the July National Charter.

Indian National Pleads Guilty in U.S. to Plot to Kill Khalistani Separatist, FBI Ties Case to Canadian Murder:

Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta pleaded guilty in the U.S. to a murder-for-hire plot targeting Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American citizen. The FBI and DOJ revealed the plot was orchestrated by Gupta under the direction of Vikash Yadav, a former Indian government employee, who promised $100,000 for the killing. Gupta unknowingly hired an undercover DEA agent posing as a hitman. The case is linked to the June 2023 murder of Canadian Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Gupta faces up to 40 years in prison but may receive a reduced sentence for cooperation. India denies any involvement.

Trump Says Regime Change in Iran “Would Be the Best Thing That Could Happen” as U.S. Deploys Second Carrier:

U.S. President Donald Trump said a change in power in Iran “would be the best thing that could happen” as tensions with Tehran escalate and a second American aircraft carrier is sent to the Middle East, ahead of potential military action. Trump made the comments after visiting troops at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and confirmed the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford strike group to bolster U.S. forces in the region. His remarks signal an openness to regime change, a major shift in rhetoric, even as diplomacy with Iran continues over its nuclear programme and regional activities. Trump stressed that ending Iran’s nuclear ambitions, curbing missile development, and stopping support for militant groups remain key objectives. Gulf Arab states have warned military action could spark wider regional conflict.

Russia Estimates 20,000 Foreign Mercenaries Have Fought for Ukraine:

Around 20,000 foreign fighters have reportedly served in Ukraine’s conflict against Russia, Russian Ambassador-at-Large Rodion Miroshnik told RIA Novosti, though the number could be higher. Moscow warns non-Ukrainian combatants will be treated as mercenaries without Geneva Convention protections. Miroshnik said last month Kiev disbanded four foreign legions, redistributing personnel to other Ukrainian units. Most foreign fighters come from Latin America—particularly Colombia—as well as Poland and the Baltic states. Ukraine relaxed recruitment rules last year to offset frontline losses amid draft evasion and desertions. Estimates suggest roughly 10,000 foreign mercenaries may have been killed in combat.

Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Strikes Across Ukraine Amid Munich Security Conference:

Russian forces conducted a large-scale attack on Ukraine between Friday evening and Saturday morning, deploying 112 kamikaze drones, including Shahed, Gerbera, and Iskander-M missiles. Ukraine’s air force shot down 91 drones, though at least 18 hit 11 locations, killing eight civilians and injuring multiple others across Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Kherson, Kyiv Oblast, and Kharkiv. Meanwhile, Ukrainian missile strikes killed two and wounded five in Belgorod, Russia. The attacks coincide with the Munich Security Conference, where Zelenskyy met international leaders to discuss military aid and the proposed June peace deadline. Trilateral talks in Geneva are scheduled next week.