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.

Maoist Centre Signals Imminent Unity with Other Left Parties Ahead of Elections:
The CPN (Maoist Centre) has announced that theoretical and policy agreements for unification with CPN (Unified Socialist) have been finalized, party spokesperson Agni Sapkota said. He added that the party plans to soon merge with the Unified Socialist led by Mahendra Ray Yadav, former NC leaders Prem Bahadur Singh and Raju Karki from CPN (Socialist), and Suvas Kafle’s Jan Samajbadi Party. Sapkota noted that technical details of the unification remain unresolved and warned that delays could jeopardize the Falgun 21 elections. He emphasized that immediate unification is crucial to prevent worsening political instability and ensure electoral preparedness in Nepal.

CPN-UML Announces Nationwide Rallies and Demonstrations:
The CPN-UML has decided to hold public rallies and demonstrations across Nepal to defend the constitution and safeguard democracy. The decision was made during a secretariat meeting held on Saturday in Gundhu. According to party deputy general secretary Pradeep Gyawali, the party will organize ward-level gatherings on Kartik 22, municipal-level meetings on Kartik 25, district-level public assemblies on Kartik 29, and a major public rally in Kathmandu on Mangsir 6. The move signals CPN-UML’s intent to mobilize its supporters nationwide and highlight its stance on constitutional and democratic issues ahead of upcoming political developments.

PM Sushila Karki Meets NC general secretaries, Urges Smooth Election Environment:
Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a meeting with Nepali Congress (NC) general secretaries Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwprakash Sharma amid internal party disputes over the upcoming general convention. According to sources close to the PM, she expressed concern over the party’s internal conflicts and emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for the elections scheduled for Falgun 21. She advised the NC to schedule its convention in a manner that does not affect the electoral process. The PM also assured full government security support for elections and requested coordination with CPN-UML to ensure smooth conduct and timely power transition.

Prachanda Claims Party Unity Amid Internal Criticism Over Unification Efforts:
CPN (Maoist Centre) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known as Prachanda, asserted that the party remains united despite internal dissent. Addressing a meeting, he criticized leader Janardan Sharma for walking out during proceedings, calling his behavior “anarchic,” but expressed confidence that Sharma would align with the central committee by the next session. Prachanda also defended the scheduled general convention, rejecting claims of postponement. Sharma had opposed unification with Madhav Nepal-led CPN (Unified Socialist), arguing it would erase the identity of the Maoist movement and undermine the sacrifices of martyrs and injured members. Prachanda emphasized that leadership transition will follow due process at the convention.

Janardan Sharma Urges Halt to CPN-Maoist Centre Merger, Cites Ideological Concerns:
In Saturday’s secretariat meeting, CPN-Maoist Centre leader Janardan Sharma, also known as ‘Prabhakar,’ opposed the proposed merger with CPN-Unified Socialist, warning it could weaken the party’s revolutionary character. Sharma emphasized the need for ideological clarity, historical review, and organizational preparation before unification, arguing that a rushed merger could serve personal interests over the party’s vision. Citing the party’s historic role in the 2052 BS people’s war and federal democratic republic formation, he criticized leadership deviations and declining mass support. He called for suspending the merger and prioritizing internal restructuring to align with youth protests, popular aspirations, and the upcoming Mangsir party congress.

Unified Socialist Faces Split as Khanal Faction Opposes Merger with Maoist Centre:
The CPN (Unified Socialist) faces a potential split following the leadership’s decision to merge with the CPN (Maoist Centre). While Chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal’s faction supports the merger, senior leader Jhalanath Khanal’s group, including Ghanendra Basnet, Ghanshyam Bhusal, Bijay Poudel, Ram Kumari Jhankri, and Jeevan Ram Shrestha, opposes it. The Khanal-led faction plans to strengthen the existing party structure, launch a campaign to reorganize all communist parties, and mobilize cadres nationwide. Politburo member Dharma Niraula suggested Ghanshyam Bhusal assume leadership, with Khanal as advisor, signaling an official break and the creation of a separate faction within days.

Two Arrested in Jhapa Murder Case; Body Found Buried Under Bridge:
Police in Jhapa have arrested Sunil Shah (25) and Rahul Shah (26) for the suspected murder of 33-year-old Saroj Sharma, whose body was discovered under Bering Bridge along the Postal Highway. Sharma, a resident of Shivasatakshi-10, went missing on October 26 while visiting hometown during Dashain. His burnt car was found days later in Hatemalo Community Forest. Authorities noted no visible external injuries on the body; the cause of death will be confirmed after postmortem at BP Koirala Institute. Investigation revealed possible links to the suspects, including prior criminal records. Locals reacted violently, prompting heightened police security in the area.

CPN-UML Finalizes 2,200 Delegates for 11th General Convention:
The CPN-UML Secretariat has finalized the delegate count for its upcoming 11th General Convention, scheduled in Kathmandu in Mangsir, party leader Surendra Pandey announced on Saturday. Approximately 2,200 delegates will participate, selected based on multiple criteria. These include delegates from parliamentary constituencies, provincial committees, special regional committees (ZICs), the diaspora, the central office, affiliated organizations, and nominated members. Specific representation is ensured for women, youth, and key party bodies, including the central committee, Central Discipline Commission, Central Audit Commission, Election Commission, and Central Advisory Council. The decision aims to ensure inclusive participation and smooth conduct of the party’s major internal event.

Two Dead, Four Injured in Tractor Accident in Shadananda, Bhojpur:
A tragic road accident in Shadananda Municipality-4, Bhojpur, claimed the lives of two people and injured four others on Saturday. The incident involved a timber-carrying tractor (Province No. 1-02-003 Ta. 1213) traveling from Chamladang to Dingla. The deceased include tractor driver Ait Bahadur Tamang, 25, of Kerabari, and 17-year-old Nabin Tamang of Charambi. Four others—19-year-old Dachhiri Sherpa, 23-year-old Ambar Tamang, 18-year-old Sagar Tamang, and 18-year-old Sunita Tamang—sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at Dingla City Hospital. Police officials reported that the accident occurred along a hilly route. Authorities are investigating the cause, highlighting concerns over road safety and vehicle regulation in the area.

Mothers in Bajura Continue Giving Birth on Roads Amid Healthcare Gaps:
In Bajura, many mothers are still forced to give birth on the road due to remoteness and insufficient healthcare services. Over the past four years, dozens of women have either died or delivered en route to health facilities. Recently, Sirjana KC of Simalkot, Budhiganga Municipality-7, gave birth on the way to a health post, despite prompt assistance from a local Auxiliary Nurse Midwife. Similar incidents occur monthly, with two to three mothers delivering on roads, according to the Health Office. Limited prenatal care, geographic challenges, and insufficient nutrition continue to put women at high risk, while programs like the government’s Maternity Air Rescue have yet to make significant impact.

Bamdev Gautam Backs CPN (Unified Socialist)–Maoist Merger, Says He’ll Stand with Madhav Nepal:
Senior CPN (Unified Socialist) leader Bamdev Gautam has expressed full support for his party’s unification with the CPN (Maoist Center), pledging to align himself wherever party chair Madhav Kumar Nepal leads. Gautam said the merger—likely to include the Maoist Center, Unified Socialist, Nepal Samajwadi Party, and Nepal Communist Party—could be finalized on November 4. He revealed that top leaders, including Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and Madhav Nepal, are discussing leadership roles post-merger. While Gautam clarified he has not sought any specific position, he expects a dignified role. Once critical of Prachanda, he now calls the process “a step toward broader communist unity.”

India Denies Discrimination Against Nepali Citizen in Transit Incident:
India’s Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that no bias or discrimination was shown against a Nepali citizen after reports of alleged mistreatment by immigration officials. The incident involved a Nepali passenger traveling from Kathmandu to Germany via Air India and Delhi. She was prevented from boarding her connecting Qatar Airways flight due to visa validity issues, a decision made solely by the airline, not immigration authorities. The Home Ministry emphasized that passengers in international transit do not need to contact immigration officials, and the matter falls between the airline and the traveler. India reaffirmed its strong relations with Nepal and commitment to fair treatment of Nepali citizens.

Pathibhara Temple Provides Porter Services for Pilgrims Unable to Walk:
Pathibhara Temple in Taplejung, a renowned pilgrimage site, has a system to assist visitors who cannot walk to the temple. Porters carry elderly visitors, children, and others with mobility difficulties from Kaflepati to the temple, charging a fare of Rs. 100 per kilogram. This service ensures that all pilgrims, regardless of physical ability, can reach the sacred site safely. According to the Pathibhara Area Development Committee, more than 500 porters are actively engaged in transporting pilgrims within the temple area. The porter system has become a crucial part of the pilgrimage experience, helping maintain accessibility for everyone visiting Pathibhara.

Credit-to-Deposit Ratio Drops to 60.72%, Loan Growth Lags Behind Deposits:
The credit-to-deposit (CD) ratio of Nepalese commercial banks has fallen to 60.72% amid rising deposits and weak loan demand, according to Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). Rastriya Banijya Bank has the lowest CD ratio, while seven of 20 banks have less than 70%. The sector’s average CD ratio stands at 74.34%, below the regulatory ceiling of 90%. Deposits grew 3.38% to Rs 6.751 trillion, while loans increased only 1.47% to Rs 5.047 trillion. Banks cite the economic slowdown and Gen Z movement’s impact on loan demand. Weighted average lending and deposit rates are 7.76% and 4.02%, respectively, with interbank rate at 2.75%.

43 Local Governments Yet to Endorse Budgets, Madhesh Province Worst Affected:
A total of 43 local governments across Nepal have failed to endorse their financial plans even after the first quarter of the fiscal year. State law mandates local bodies to announce budgets by Asar 10 (June 24), but 5.7% of municipalities and rural municipalities are non-compliant, primarily due to political disagreements. Madhesh Province accounts for 34 of the defaulters, while Koshi has 2, Lumbini 5, and Bagmati and Karnali one each; Gandaki and Sudurpashchim comply fully. Delays hinder revenue collection, salary payments, development projects, and federal grants, risking increased arrears. MoFAGA reports 710 local bodies have submitted budgets on time so far.

Family Drama Paran Premieres Nationwide, Wins Hearts with Emotional Story:
The family-centric emotional film Paran, starring veteran actor Neer Shah, premiered nationwide today. The grand premiere in Kathmandu drew strong acclaim from audiences and critics alike, with many moved to tears by the touching story of a father seeking closeness with his busy children. Directed by debutant Deepak Acharya, the film highlights universal familial struggles, earning praise from industry figures including Harivansh Acharya and Suyog Gurung. Produced by Shekhar Golcha and Ranjit Acharya, the cast includes Madan Krishna Shrestha, Puja Chand, Mahesh Tripathi, Keki Adhikari, and child actor Aryadeep Acharya. Music, cinematography, and editing complement the heartfelt narrative.

Family-Centric Nepali Film Harsha Unveils New Poster Ahead of Release:
The upcoming Nepali film Harsha, set for nationwide release on Mangsir 12, has released a new family-themed poster. It features lead actors Khagendra Lamichhane, Barsha Raut, and child actor Simon Wadi in joyful poses, highlighting the film’s focus on parent-child relationships. The poster reflects deep parental love and the happiness (‘Harsha’) derived from familial bonds. Directed and written by debut filmmaker Ekta Paudel, the movie is produced by Prasanna Paudel and Vikas Paudel, with Hikmat Chokhal as executive producer. The cast also includes veteran actors like Nir Shah, Santosh Pant, Sharmila Malla, Maotse Gurung, and others, promising a heartwarming cinematic experience.

Nepali Sci-Fi Film ‘Eklō’ Teaser Unveiled, Promises Unique Cinematic Experience:
The Nepali film industry has released the teaser for Eklō, a science-fiction movie promising a unique narrative and visual experience. The 1-minute 5-second teaser hints at the film’s distinctive story and high technical standards. Directed by Pradeep Shahi, a UK-based filmmaker, Eklō features a mix of veteran and new actors, including Pradeep Khadka, Vijay Lama, Sunil Thapa, Diya Pun, Benisha Hamal, and British actor Jamie Bacon. Set for nationwide release on January 1, coinciding with the English New Year, the film has already showcased its international presence at Cannes Film Festival via a stall, generating early buzz and anticipation among audiences.

Nepal Falls to USA by 4 Wickets in ICC World Cup League 2:
Nepal suffered a 4-wicket defeat against the United States in their third ICC World Cup League 2 match at Dubai’s ICC Academy Ground. Batting first, Nepal scored 271 runs in 49.5 overs, with Dipendra Singh Airee contributing 75 and Karan KC adding a crucial 49. Opener Asif Sheikh was dismissed for 2, while Bhim Sarki and Rohit Paudel scored 43 and 36 respectively. In reply, the U.S. reached 273/6 in 49 overs, led by a 123-run partnership between Milind Kumar (70) and Saiteja Mukkamalla (75). Sandeep Lamichhane took three wickets for Nepal, but the team remained seventh in the standings.

Youth and Sports Minister Bablu Gupta Inspects Development Works at TU Cricket Ground:
Youth and Sports Minister Bablu Gupta on Saturday inspected the ongoing infrastructure development at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. During his visit, he reviewed the newly constructed parapet seating area, which can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators, and assessed the installation progress of floodlights aimed at enabling day-night matches. The minister’s inspection focused on evaluating the ground’s readiness for upcoming national and international sporting events. He emphasized the government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure across the country to promote cricket and other disciplines, ensuring that the Kirtipur stadium meets international standards for future tournaments.

Nepal Women’s Football Team Triumphs Twice Against India Despite Challenging Tour:
Nepal’s women’s football team completed its India tour, participating in a Tri-Nation invitational with Iran and India, followed by an informal friendly against India. Despite criticism of ANFA for poor management and a hectic schedule, Nepal won both matches against India. After a 3–0 loss to a strong Iranian side in the first match, fatigue affected performance due to late-night travel to Shillong, according to coach Naveen Nyaupane. Captain Sabitra Bhandari scored early and from a free-kick to secure a 2–1 win over India in the official match. Later, Nepal defeated India 3–0 on penalties in an informal friendly in Sikkim.

Salhes Youth Club Advances to Semifinals with 5–1 Win in Intra-Pathari Sh Nishchare Gold Cup:
Siraha’s Salhes Youth Club reached the semifinals of the second Intra-Pathari Sh Nishchare Gold Cup after defeating India’s Siliguri Kanchanjungha Football Club 5–1 at Pathari Stadium on Saturday. Salhes took an early lead with Aditya Shakya scoring in the 7th minute, followed by two goals from Richard Wilson in the 24th and 59th minutes, completing a hat-trick in stoppage time. Sujan Dangol also scored in the first half, while Pranis Pradhan netted a consolation goal for Siliguri. Wilson was named Man of the Match. The tournament, organized by Pathari-11 Football Club, features eight teams from Nepal and India.

Nepal’s Karate Star Erica Gurung Honored for WKF Series A Gold:
Nepalese karate athlete Erica Gurung was honored by Manmaju Dojo chief coach Niraj Maharjan in Canada on Saturday for her historic WKF Karate Series A World Championship gold medal in Malaysia. Maharjan presented Erica with NPR 50,000 as encouragement. The event was attended by Manmaju Dojo president Vikas Rajbahak and national athlete Santosh Shrestha. Erica previously won Nepal’s first-ever silver medal in karate at the 19th Asian Games in China and is the first Nepalese to claim a WKF Series A title. She will also compete at the Karate World Championship in Egypt later this November alongside Sanumaya Thing.

Nepal’s Dipa Shahi Joins Bangladeshi Club Nasrin Sports Academy:
Nepal national women’s football team midfielder Dipa Shahi has signed with Bangladeshi club Nasrin Sports Academy. Announced on social media, the move marks Dipa’s professional stint ahead of the upcoming SAFF Women’s Club Championship, leaving her departmental team Tribhuvan Army Club for the opportunity. She becomes Nasrin’s third foreign recruit, joining national teammates Puja Ranamagar and Samiksha Ghimire. Dipa returns to the field after an 11-month recovery from an ACL injury suffered in last year’s SAFF Championship in Kathmandu. Nasrin, last season’s Bangladesh Women’s League champions, feature several national players. The SAFF Women’s Club Championship will take place in Nepal from December 5–20.

First Jhapa Women’s Gold Cup 2082 Postponed Due to Cyclone Montha:
The inaugural Jhapa Women’s Gold Cup 2082 international knockout football tournament, originally scheduled to start on Saturday, has been postponed by two days due to heavy rainfall caused by Cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal. Organizers have rescheduled the opening match to Monday, Kartik 17, between Nepal Police Club’s women’s team and Church Boys United’s women’s team. The second match on Kartik 18 will feature India’s Sikkim Sigling Sporting Club versus Nepal APF Football Club. Subsequent matches include Jhapa Football Club against Sankata FC on Kartik 19 and Tribhuvan Army FC versus RS Pokhara FC on Kartik 20, with semifinals on Kartik 21–22 and the final on Kartik 24.

Amit Shah Targets RJD, Rahul Gandhi in Bihar Assembly Campaign:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah attacked the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, presenting the NDA “Modi-Nitish combine” as the path to development, while accusing the RJD-led alliance of potentially bringing “jungle raj.” Speaking virtually at rallies in Gopalganj, Samastipur, and Vaishali, Shah also criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for allegedly protecting infiltrators during the ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra,’ welcoming the Election Commission’s nationwide exercise. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi countered in Begusarai, alleging the state government was controlled from Delhi and challenging the NDA’s “double-engine” claim. Bihar assembly elections will be held on November 6 and 11, with results announced on November 14.

Tulsi Gabbard Claims US Regime-Change Era Ended Under Trump:
US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard acknowledged Washington’s long history of regime change, citing interventions in Iraq, Libya, and Ukraine, but said such policies ended under President Donald Trump. Speaking at the 21st Manama Dialogue, Gabbard described previous US foreign policy as costly, counterproductive, and driven by a “one-size-fits-all” approach. She praised Trump’s administration as pragmatic and deal-oriented, emphasizing diplomacy over coups. Critics, however, point to Trump’s recent actions and rhetoric on Iran and Venezuela, including US strikes and pressure campaigns, as reflecting elements of the old regime-change playbook, raising questions about the administration’s consistency with its stated diplomatic approach.

German Firms’ Tax Payments to Russia Fund War Efforts in Ukraine:
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, German companies have paid an estimated €1.72 billion annually in taxes to the Kremlin, enough to finance around 10,000 Shahed attack drones targeting Ukrainian cities. Despite this, over half of German firms that operated in Russia before the war remain active, producing consumer goods like cheese and gypsum. Legally, many comply with EU regulations, but critics argue their taxes indirectly support Russia’s war economy. According to a report by Kyiv School of Economics, B4Ukraine, and the Squeezing Putin Initiative, international firms contributed over $60 billion (€51.8bn) to Russia’s war effort between 2022 and 2024.