KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.

Prachanda Claims Deal Among Ruling Parties to Fast-Track Key Bills in Parliament:
Former Prime Minister and CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ claimed that ruling coalition parties have reached an agreement to reopen Parliament and fast-track key bills, including the Citizenship Bill, Education Bill, and Federal Civil Service Bill. Speaking at a national gathering of indigenous communities in Damak, Jhapa, he said the Maoist Centre played a crucial role in introducing these bills and thus pushed for consensus to resume House proceedings. Dismissing market rumors as baseless, he also admitted that past proximity with the Nepali Congress and UML cost his party public support. The party now aims to engage marginalized groups in building a socialist foundation.

35 Editors Condemn Arrest Warrant Against Journalist Pathak, Call for Legal Reform:
Thirty-five editors from across Nepal have condemned the arrest warrant issued against journalist Dil Bhusan Pathak under the Electronic Transactions Act, calling it a misuse of the law to suppress press freedom. In a joint statement, they criticized the government’s use of police power over legal alternatives like the Press Council. The editors demanded the immediate withdrawal of the warrant and urged reforms to restrictive legal provisions. They also opposed recent court orders to remove content from Bizmandu and Nepalkhabar, calling it a violation of constitutional rights. Prominent editors and media leaders signed the statement, warning of rising threats to free expression.

CPN (Maoist Centre) to Review Two-Point Agreement That Restarted Parliament, Pledges Continued Fight Against Visa Scandal:
Senior Vice-Chair Narayan Kaji Shrestha of CPN (Maoist Centre) stated the party will review the recent two-point agreement with the ruling coalition that enabled Parliament’s resumption. Speaking at the party’s Dolakha–Kathmandu committee convention, Shrestha said internal discussions are pending before a final position is taken. He suggested party chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ signed the deal after evaluating the political situation. Despite the agreement, Shrestha emphasized the party’s commitment to pursuing the ongoing visit visa scandal case, calling it a significant issue that demands action. The agreement was signed by Maoist and UML whips to facilitate parliamentary proceedings.

Gagan Thapa Proposes Direct Election of Congress President to End Party Factionalism:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Thapa has proposed a bold reform to end factionalism within the party by allowing all active members to directly elect the party president. Speaking at a provincial working committee event in Kathmandu, Thapa said factional divides would persist unless the leadership selection process is democratized. With the party’s active membership expected to reach 1.2 million, he argued that a directly elected president would hold indisputable authority, effectively neutralizing internal factions. Thapa also reaffirmed that the party’s 15th General Convention will be held before December 2026, rejecting doubts about possible delays until after the next elections.

UML’s Pradeep Gyawali Calls for Bipartisan Cooperation with Congress for Nepal’s Stability:
CPN-UML Deputy General Secretary Pradeep Gyawali has emphasized the need for cooperation between the UML and Nepali Congress to ensure political stability and development in Nepal. Speaking at the third national conference of the Progressive and Professional Lawyers’ Association Nepal, Gyawali noted that although the two parties are rivals, bipartisan collaboration is vital for the country’s democratic future. He claimed optimism has grown in the private sector since KP Sharma Oli’s leadership began and called for constitutional amendments and leftist unity. Other UML leaders at the event highlighted democratic integrity, judicial reform, and the association’s ongoing legal support for the party.

Six Workers Seriously Injured as Under-Construction Bailey Bridge Collapses over Henwa River on Mechi Highway:
Six laborers were seriously injured when a modular Bailey bridge under construction over the Henwa River on the Mechi Highway collapsed. The cause of the collapse remains unclear. The injured include Rup Lal Chaudhary (22), Rajan Chaudhary (27), Rakesh Chaudhary (22), Bhuleshwar Chaudhary (25), Prakash Chaudhary (35), and Abhishek Chaudhary (30), all from Simara-12, Bara. Rup Lal, Rajan, and Rakesh are in critical condition, while Bhuleshwar has a broken right leg. The injured were rescued and taken to Fiddim District Hospital, with some referred to Jhapa for further treatment. This is the third bridge constructed at the site after floods destroyed previous structures.

Speaker Ghimire Calls for In-Depth Debate on Election and Governance Systems:
Speaker Devaraj Ghimire emphasized the need for more extensive discussions on the election system and governance framework during the launch of the book Nepalma Nirbachan Pranali (Election System in Nepal) by senior advocate Dr. Chandrakant Gyawali on Saturday. Ghimire highlighted the importance of debating the current flaws in the governance and election systems to find ways to make them more effective. He stressed the necessity of ensuring free, transparent, and inclusive elections that lead to stable and results-oriented governance by elected representatives. Such dialogue, he said, is essential for Nepal’s political progress and stability.

MPs Object to Lack of Inclusion in Judicial Appointments:
Lawmakers raised serious concerns over the lack of inclusivity in recent judicial nominations recommended by the Judicial Council. During Saturday’s meeting of the Parliamentary Hearing Committee, MPs criticized the nominations of Senior Advocate Meghraj Pokharel, High Court Judge Shreekant Paudel, and Dipayal High Court Chief Judge Shanti Singh Thapa, along with Judicial Council member nominee Mahesh Nepal. Lawmakers from across party lines, including Prakash Adhikari (JSP), Mahesh Bartaula (UML), Jeevan Pariyar (NC), and Jag Prasad Sharma (Maoist Centre), called for accountability and discussions with the Judicial Council or the law minister to address recurring exclusion in the judicial recommendation process.

Upendra Yadav Slams PMs for Focusing Only on Their Own Constituencies:
Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) Chairperson Upendra Yadav has criticized Nepal’s prime ministers and ministers for prioritizing only their own electoral constituencies instead of serving the entire nation. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu on Saturday, Yadav said that such narrow focus undermines inclusive governance and leads to political instability. He argued that the current electoral system must be changed to ensure national-level leadership and equitable development. “Our prime ministers and ministers act as if they are elected only to serve their home districts. Resources are funneled there, and many lawmakers are left with nothing to show, losing public trust,” he stated.

Brake Failure Triggers Multi-Vehicle Crash in Makawanpur, 10 Injured:
A passenger bus traveling from Birgunj to Hetauda suffered brake failure on the East-West Highway at Diver Danda, Makawanpur, leading to a chain-reaction crash that injured 10 people. The incident occurred around 3:20 PM on Saturday. The out-of-control bus (Na 5 Kha 2970) first collided with an unregistered car, then hit a tanker (Na 8 Kha 440), and finally crashed into a roadside tree. Among the injured, four were bus passengers and six were in the car. All were taken to Hetauda Hospital. The car sustained heavy damage. Police are investigating the incident and managing traffic at the site.

KMC Launches Free Mental Health Check-Ups to Tackle Stigma and Improve Early Intervention:
Kathmandu Metropolitan City has begun offering free mental health check-ups every Sunday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 12 PM at its Urban Health Promotion Center in Ward 11, Babarmahal. The initiative targets individuals facing stress, anxiety, depression, and addiction issues. Ward Chairperson Hiralal Tandukar said the program aims to break the stigma around mental health. Experts from Patan Hospital emphasized early detection, counseling, and lifestyle changes. Clinical psychologist Anupraj Bhandari noted that ward-level care can reduce hospital burdens. The KMC hopes the initiative will raise awareness, encourage treatment, and promote mental well-being through timely counseling and community support.

‘Woolen Sweater’ Sets New Record: All Songs Join YouTube’s Million-View Club:
The Nepali film ‘Woolen Sweater’ has set a new benchmark in the Nepali film industry as all its songs have crossed 10 million views on YouTube, making its entire soundtrack a superhit. As of its 37th day in theaters, the film continues to perform successfully. The latest song, ‘Chainejo Jindaganima’, recently surpassed 10 million views, joining hits like ‘Phoolharu Muskauchhan’ (21M), ‘Makhamali’ (13M), and ‘Kafle’ (13M). Production house Artmandu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the audience and noted that this success adds both pride and pressure. Directed by Navin Chauhan, the film stars Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar, and others.

‘Janai Haraeko Manche’ Unveils New Character Posters Ahead of September Release:
The upcoming Nepali film ‘Janai Haraeko Manche’, set to release on Bhadra 6 (August 22), has revealed new character posters featuring Bholaraj Sapkota and Aroos Bhusal as father and son. Directed by Himal Neupane, the film stars Bijay Baral in the lead, alongside Keki Adhikari, Miruna Magar, Gaurav Pahari, and others. Produced by Kamal Neupane and Bimal Neupane, the film includes executive producers Narayan Timilsina, Chudamani Sibakoti, RK Manandhar, and more. Music is composed by Thaneshwor Gautam, Arjun Pokharel, SD Yogi, and Prashant Sibakoti, with cinematography by Naveen Gurung and Krishna Pariyar. The story and script are written by Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal.

Actor Paul Shah Exits ‘Maharajadhiraj’; Film’s Schedule and Dashain Release Uncertain:
Actor Paul Shah has officially exited the upcoming film ‘Maharajadhiraj’, throwing its planned shooting schedule and Dashain release into uncertainty. The production company, Chhatrashwari Management, announced via social media that the agreement with Shah was terminated by mutual consent. Shah clarified that he needs to prioritize his own production ‘Yanimaya’, in which he will star and which will be produced under his banner, Paul Shah Films. His departure has cast doubt on the filming set to begin in early Asar. The makers have yet to announce a replacement lead actor or confirm the revised timeline for production and release.

Bollywood Actor Pradeep Rawat Joins Nepali Film ‘Aa Bata Aama’ as Paul Shah’s Father:
Bollywood actor Pradeep Rawat, known for his powerful character roles, has been signed for the upcoming Nepali film ‘Aa Bata Aama’, directed by Chandra Pant. Rawat will portray the role of Paul Shah’s father in the film, according to the production team. This marks Rawat’s return to Nepali cinema after his appreciated role as Nita Dhungana’s father in the film ‘Hraswa Deergha’. Actors Bipana Thapa and Paul Shah have already been confirmed in key roles. ‘Aa Bata Aama’ is scheduled to hit cinemas on Falgun 15 (late February 2026), generating buzz for its cross-border casting and emotional storyline.

Rajesh Rai Releases Soulful Song ‘Paisa Sab Bhanda Mathi’ Highlighting Struggles of Poverty:
Singer Rajesh Rai has released a new song titled ‘Paisa Sab Bhanda Mathi’, featuring his solo vocals and music. Directed by Suleman Shankar (Iku)—who also stars in the music video—the song portrays the harsh realities faced by low-income families. With lyrics like “Yaha yastai chha saathi, paisa sab bhanda mathi…”, it reflects the emotional and financial struggles caused by poverty. The video features actors Sabita Gurung, Deepika Thapa, Sabin Lama, Mohan Shahi, and child actor Suyesha Shankar. The music is arranged and mixed by Devesh Rai, and the video is available on Rajesh Rai’s official YouTube channel.

APF Wins Prachanda Cup; Niruta Thagunna Named Best Player:
Nepal APF Club won the Prachanda Cup National Women’s Volleyball Tournament, defeating Nepal Police Club in straight sets (25–19, 25–20, 25–13) to claim their first title of the year. Niruta Thagunna of APF was named Best Player, receiving a cash prize of Rs. 30,000. Individual category awards went to players from APF, New Diamond, and Nepal Police. APF’s coach Pushpajung Malla was also named Best Coach. New Diamond Sports Club secured third place after defeating Everest Volleyball Club 3-0. Organized by National Sports Academy, the event featured six teams and concluded at Pokhara Stadium, with plans to include a men’s category next year.

Panchpokhari T20 Semifinal Lineup Set; Sonu Devkota Shines with 7 Wickets:
The Panchpokhari T20 Cricket Tournament, jointly organized by Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality and Sindhupalchok Cricket Association, has finalized its semifinal lineup. From Group A, Panchpokhari Cricket Club and The Mighty Sangachok Club advanced, while Melamchi Municipality and Bhotekoshi Sports Club qualified from Group B. In the final group match, Sonu Devkota starred with 7 wickets and an unbeaten 41 runs to lead Melamchi to a 7-wicket win over Helambu. The semifinals will be played Sunday at TU Ground, Kirtipur. The champion will receive Rs. 1 lakh, and the best player will get six months of free training from Great Himalaya Cricket Academy.

Rison Thapa and Riya Shrestha Win First Junior National Chess Championship Titles:
Rison Thapa of Jhapa and Riya Shrestha of Kathmandu clinched titles at the First Junior National Chess Championship, sponsored by Budhanilkantha Municipality. Rison dominated the boys’ category with a perfect 9/9 score, followed by Purushottam Silwal (8 points) and Pratik Subedi (7 points). In the girls’ category, Riya remained unbeaten with 6 points from 7 rounds. Isha Giri and Angel Maharjan secured second and third place, respectively. Both champions received Rs. 40,000, while other top finishers also won cash prizes. Age group winners from U-8 to U-18 were also recognized. The closing ceremony was held at Trijyoti School.

Europe Urges Diplomacy but Remains Sidelines in Middle East Conflict:
European leaders have called for restraint and diplomatic solutions amid escalating Middle East conflicts but remain largely excluded from key negotiations. Security expert Claude Moniquet highlighted Europe’s sidelined role, particularly in US-Iran talks. French President Macron stressed conditional support for Israel’s security while opposing offensive operations and urged a ceasefire in Gaza, condemning the humanitarian blockade. UK Prime Minister Starmer echoed calls for calm, though strained UK-Israel relations have limited cooperation. European Commission President von der Leyen emphasized Israel’s right to self-defense but warned that regional stability depends on maximum restraint and de-escalation efforts.

Iran Threatens Retaliation Against US Military Bases Following Israeli Strikes:
Iran has warned it may target US military bases in the Middle East in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes that killed 78 and injured over 300 in Iran, according to Fars news agency. Tehran’s UN ambassador accused the US of complicity due to its support for Israel. A military source said Iran’s response will extend beyond Israel to US bases in the region, promising continued “painful” strikes. Israel claimed the attacks aimed to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The US denies involvement, emphasizing protection of its forces across 19 Middle Eastern locations hosting 40,000–50,000 troops.

Netanyahu Claims Israel’s Strikes Prevented “Nuclear Terrorism” with US Support:
In a video statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iranian leaders are “packing their bags” following Israeli airstrikes. He claimed Israel acted to prevent Iran from supplying nuclear weapons to terrorist groups, describing it as “nuclear terrorism on steroids” threatening the world. Netanyahu emphasized that the operation had the “clear support” of US President Donald Trump, calling the US and Israel allies against a common enemy. Wishing Trump a happy birthday, Netanyahu said their victory would be shared, highlighting strong cooperation between Israel, the US, and other global partners in countering Iran’s nuclear ambitions.