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.

Madhesh CM Yadav Resigns After Failure to Secure Vote of Confidence

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Yadav resigned from his post on Wednesday, announcing his decision during a Provincial Assembly meeting. His resignation came after the Supreme Court issued a mandamus ordering him to seek a vote of confidence within 24 hours. Following the boycott of the session by seven political parties, including the Nepali Congress, Yadav declared, “I do not have a majority; therefore, I resign.” He submitted his resignation to the Province Head today, accusing the boycotting parties of opportunism.

Gagan Thapa Announces Candidacy for NC President

Nepali Congress (NC) General Secretary Gagan Thapa officially announced his candidacy for the party presidency in the upcoming 15th General Convention. During an interview on the Himalayan Television program on Wednesday, Thapa stated, “There is no doubt about it! I am a candidate for the president of the 15th General Convention.” He expressed confidence that the majority of NC members will entrust him with the leadership of the party. The full interview, which also covers his parliamentary constituency, relationship with new-generation leaders like Balen Shah, and a blueprint for a ‘New Congress,’ is set to air at 9:00 PM on Wednesday.

Karnali Province Parliamentary Leader Sharma Resigns from Post

Rajkumar Sharma, the parliamentary party leader of the CPN (Maoist Center) in Karnali Province, has resigned from his position. Sharma, who is also a former Chief Minister of Karnali, submitted his resignation letter on Wednesday to Chief Whip Krishna Bahadur GC. The letter confirmed his resignation from the post of party leader. Sharma recently joined the newly formed Pragatishil Loktantrik Party, but he has not yet resigned from his position as a Member of Provincial Assembly.

89 Political Parties Fail to Submit Financial Details to Election Commission

The Election Commission (EC) reported that only 33 of the 122 registered political parties have submitted their income and expenditure reports for the last fiscal year. Major parties, including the Nepali Congress and CPN (UML), are among the 89 parties that have not yet submitted their financial audits. According to Section 41 of the Political Parties Act, parties must have their accounts audited by a licensed auditor and submit the report to the EC within seven months of the fiscal year. Failure to submit the report may result in the EC publicly listing the noncompliant parties and demanding an explanation.

Election Commission Approves Schedule for National Assembly Election

The Election Commission (EC) has approved the schedule for the election of 18 members to the National Assembly, as the terms of 19 current members are set to expire on March 4, 2026. Key dates in the approved schedule include the publication of the final voter list on January 6, 2026, the registration of candidates on January 7, 2026, and the withdrawal of candidacy on January 11, 2026. Polling will take place on January 25, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the designated polling centers.

Inquiry Commission Questions Two AIGs Over Gen Z Protests

The High-Level Investigation Commission formed to investigate the Gen Z protests has questioned two Additional Inspector Generals of Police (AIGs): Narayan Dutta Paudel of the Armed Police Force and Siddhi Bikram Shah of the Nepal Police. AIG Shah was the head of the Nepal Police Operations Department during the protests. The commission, led by Gauri Bahadur Karki, also previously questioned former Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal and former head of the National Investigation Department, Hutraj Thapa. The questioning focuses on the operational leadership during the demonstrations.

PM Commits to Disability-Inclusive Development

Prime Minister Sushila Karki has committed to prioritizing solidarity, ownership, and leadership of persons with disabilities to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. In a message released on Wednesday for the 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities, she stated the government is actively working to ensure easy access to education, health, employment, and social security. The prime minister emphasized the state policy is to create a respectful and equitable environment for all persons with disabilities by removing physical, attitudinal, communication, and legal barriers.

President Calls for Effective Implementation of Disability Rights Laws

President Ram Chandra Paudel emphasized the critical need for effective implementation of constitutional and legal provisions for persons with disabilities. In his message for the 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Wednesday, he stressed the importance of ensuring equal access to state-provided facilities, particularly for those deprived of education, health, and employment. The president also highlighted the immediate necessity of creating physically accessible structures in offices, schools, and public spaces and called for a collective effort to foster an inclusive and nondiscriminatory society.

Rally Held to Mark 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities

A morning rally was organized in the capital on Wednesday to mark the 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which began globally in 1992. The rally, led by Minister of Communication and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel, started at Khulamanch and concluded with an assembly at Brikutimandap. Participants carried placards demanding an end to discrimination and advocating for accessible public infrastructure, including schools, vehicles, roads, parks, and government buildings, to ensure easy access for all persons with disabilities.

NC Seeks Donations for Rebuilding Central Office

The Nepali Congress party has decided to solicit financial contributions from its lower organizational structures to fund the reconstruction of its Central Office, which was vandalized during the Gen Z protests on September 8 and 9. Party Treasurer Umesh Shrestha and Chief Secretary of the Central Office Krishna Prasad Poudel have issued a circular detailing the requested contribution amounts from individual members, including general convention delegates, provincial delegates, active members, and party candidates elected to local-level positions.

Former Sudurpaschim CM Faces Hearing in Rs 10.8 Million Corruption Case

The Special Court has scheduled a hearing for the corruption case against former Sudurpaschim Chief Minister Dirgha Bahadur Sodari, who is accused of accumulating illicit wealth. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) filed the case on June 2, claiming that Sodari illegally acquired Rs 10.8 million in assets during his public service tenure from January 21, 2018, to January 24, 2023. The CIAA is seeking to confiscate property registered in the names of his wife and son.

CPN (UML) Central Committee Intervenes in Tanahun Constituency Representative Selection

The Central Committee of the CPN (UML) had to intervene to finalize the party representatives for Tanahun Constituency No. 1 after a dispute erupted during the vote counting in Bandipur. Following the successful counting in Devghat, Bhanu, and Abukhaireni, the controversy led to the snatching of ballot boxes. The party’s central leadership, after discussions on Monday and Tuesday, finalized and recommended five names, including Hari Raj Kandel and Prem Kumar Rana for open seats and Madan Timilsena for the youth quota, to the center for approval.

Consumer Court Settles 13 Cases in Eight Months

The Consumer Court has registered 28 cases and resolved 13 of them in the eight months since its establishment on March 15, which is World Consumer Rights Day. The resolved cases include five court decisions, two compromises, and six withdrawals. Registrar Shobhakar Kharel noted that the 15 pending cases mostly involve medical negligence (10 cases) and poor quality of electric vehicles (seven cases). Despite the caseload from consumer victims, the court has yet to receive a single case from government monitoring and regulatory bodies like the Department of Commerce, Supply, and Consumer Protection.

Government Cuts Non-Essential Spending and Unnecessary Bureaucracy

The government has successfully halted the expensive administrative practice of holding meetings in hotels, paying generous meeting allowances, and creating unnecessary subcommittees, in line with its policy of prioritizing good governance. Prime Minister’s Office Spokesperson Hemraj Aryal stated that national-level seminars and workshops are now conducted in government halls, saving the state a significant financial burden. He highlighted that these measures, along with the process of cutting unnecessary posts, are aimed at delivering the prompt, efficient, and corruption-free public services demanded by Gen Z.

Intergovernmental Council Ends Practice of Keeping ‘Unallocated’ Budget

The Intergovernmental Fiscal Council has agreed to eliminate the practice of allocating “unallocated” budget funds, which lack specific project titles and are often put under miscellaneous spending. The decision, reached at a meeting this week, aims to enforce fiscal discipline, which has been questioned due to the growing volume of such budget items. For the current fiscal year, Rs 78.35 billion has been placed in miscellaneous headings. The council also resolved to mandate that the National Planning Commission develop an integrated financial transfer system and that all three levels of government prioritize finishing delayed projects or legally scrapping unviable ones.

Government Allows Conversion of Vehicles to Eco-Friendly Fuel Systems

The government has legally permitted the conversion of traditional fuel-powered vehicles to electric or energy-efficient systems for a period of three years. The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport published a notice in the Nepal Gazette, utilizing the ‘Removal of Obstacles’ authority to grant an exemption from Section 39 of the Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 1992. This section previously restricted any changes to a vehicle’s original structure or engine. The exemption allows vehicle owners to legally modify their engine or fuel system to make their vehicles more environmentally friendly.

Australian Ambassador Bids Farewell to President Paudel

The Ambassador of Australia to Nepal, Lynn Johnston, paid a farewell visit to President Ram Chandra Paudel at Shital Niwas on Wednesday. According to Presidential Office Spokesperson Pradeep Kumar Koirala, the two officials discussed the long-standing bilateral relations, mutual interests, and areas of cooperation between Nepal and Australia. President Paudel thanked Ambassador Johnston for successfully completing her tenure.

Pokhara Cooperative Officials Released After Pledging Rs 310 million

Officials and operators of the Pokhara Cooperative, who were arrested on November 5 for the alleged embezzlement of approximately Rs 890 million, have been released from police custody. The officials, including Chairman Surendra Bahadur Godar, secured their release by guaranteeing assets (land/property) and checks valued at around Rs 310 million. They committed to returning the depositors’ money within three to four months. The police agreed to the arrangement, prioritizing the depositors’ recovery over immediate prosecution, provided the repayment deadline is met.

Makwanpur Administration to Take Action Against Hetauda Road Blockers

The Makwanpur District Administration Office issued a notice on Wednesday threatening strict legal action against individuals who obstruct the Hetauda market road expansion project or intimidate local businesses. The administration stated that while most businesses have been cooperative in vacating premises by the deadline of December 6, some groups are discouraging their efforts and forcibly closing shops. The Administration strongly warned that any unlawful obstruction of the public development work being carried out by the Division Road Office will result in severe legal consequences.

Two New Polling Stations Added in Humla for Upcoming Election

The Election Commission (EC) has approved the addition of two new polling stations in the remote district of Humla for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. This decision was made to accommodate high voter numbers and resolve the issue of voters having to walk up to three hours to reach their polling center. According to District Election Officer Bhim Bahadur Rokaya, the total number of polling stations in Humla now stands at 60, with 61 polling centers. The district now has a total of 34,502 registered voters, up from 33,308 in the 2022 election.

Three New Polling Stations Added in Gorkha for Upcoming Election

The Election Commission (EC) has approved the addition of three new polling stations in Gorkha district to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process, according to the District Election Office. The new stations were added to accommodate an increased voter population, overcome geographical challenges, and improve accessibility in remote settlements. The three new stations, located in Chumanubri Rural Municipality-6, Shaheed Lakhan Rural Municipality-3, and Palungtar Municipality-6, will divide 2,579 voters from existing crowded centers. The total number of polling stations in Gorkha for the upcoming election is now 225, with 320 polling centers, serving 221,981 voters.

Dadeldhura Proposes Four New Polling Stations for Upcoming Election

The Dadeldhura District Election Office has recommended adding four new polling stations for the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026. This will increase the total number of polling stations to 104, up from the 101 used in the 2022 election. According to Election Officer Karunakar Awasthi, one old station was removed and four new ones were proposed to the Election Commission. The district also registered 1,892 new voters between September 26 and November 21, bringing the total number of voters in Dadeldhura to 91,919.

Hard Viral Flu Cases Surge in Banke as Cold Weather Intensifies

Banke district has seen a sharp increase in severe viral flu cases, including high fever, common cold, pneumonia, and cold diarrhea, following the start of the cold season. Health officials, including Naresh Shrestha of the Banke Health Office, urged the public to take precautions. Senior Physician Dr. Sanket Kumar Risal noted that the current strain of the flu is potent, and patients who do not recover in a few days are advised to get admitted to the hospital. Physicians are currently treating between 30 and 40 severe viral flu patients daily, with children and the elderly being the most affected demographic.

Rampur Municipality Delivers Public Services via Mobile Camp in Wards

Rampur Municipality is increasing public access to services by operating a mobile camp in remote wards 1 and 2. The initiative provides comprehensive services, including plan agreements, bank account opening, distribution of elderly and disabled ID cards, and specialized health and eye exams. According to Mayor Raman Bahadur Thapa, the camp ensures that citizens geographically distant from the municipal office can easily access services, a practice that has been refined and continued from previous years. So far, over 485 service seekers have benefited from the camp, with 170 receiving health check-ups and 11 people being diagnosed with cataracts.

Bardiya Municipality Treats Over 3,200 Livestock in Health Camps

The Barbardiya Municipality in Bardiya treated 3,276 livestock and poultry during two health camps held in the remote areas of Bhaisakhani (Ward 3) and Belbhar (Ward 11). A total of 566 farmers brought animals for treatment, which included deworming and vaccination. The camp, supported by Heifer International and the Tharu Women Upliftment Center, primarily focused on goats (1,135), cattle (330), pigs (120), and chickens/ducks (1,691). Mayor Chhabilal Tharu emphasized that the camps made veterinary care accessible to farmers who cannot reach treatment centers.

Kami Rita Sherpa Certified by Guinness for 42 Summits Above 8,000 Meters

High-altitude specialist and alpine guide Kami Rita Sherpa has received an official Guinness World Records certificate for completing 42 ascents of mountains above 8,000 meters, including an unprecedented 31 summits of Mount Everest. The 55-year-old climber from Thame, Solukhumbu, reached the Everest summit for the 31st time on May 27. He has also climbed Manaslu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and K2. Kami Rita, who dedicated the award to Nepal and the Sherpa community, confirmed his plan to return to Everest in the spring for his 32nd ascent.

Foreign Players Dominate Batting Records in NPL

As the Nepal Premier League (NPL) approaches its conclusion on December 13, foreign players have hit all three centuries recorded across both seasons. Adam Rossington of Pokhara Avengers scored the most recent century on Tuesday in the current edition, finishing at an unbeaten 108 runs off 58 balls. Mark Watt of Karnali Yaks holds the record for the fastest century (off 41 balls) and the highest individual score (unbeaten 114). While 17 of the 26 half-centuries have also been scored by foreign players, Nepali bowlers currently lead the wicket-taking charts.

Bhurungchoki Secondary School Wins 7th President’s Running Cup

Bhurungchoki Secondary School won the title at the 7th Inter-School President’s Running Cup Tournament, organized by Biruwa Rural Municipality. The school secured 10 gold, nine silver, and two bronze medals at the competition held in Methabhurung. Jamune Danda Secondary School finished second with six gold, five silver, and two bronze medals, while Biruwa Moonlight Academy took third place. The tournament, which included volleyball, kabaddi, races, high jump, long jump, javelin throw, and shot put, saw participation from 10 schools.

Nepal Women’s Football Team Loses Second Match in Tri-Nation Series

The Nepal women’s football team suffered its second defeat, losing 1-0 to Chinese Taipei in the Tri-Nation International Friendly Tournament in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The match, played on Tuesday night, saw the decisive goal scored by Huang Keshin in the 53rd minute. This loss follows a 2-1 defeat to host nation Indonesia in the first match. The Chinese Taipei victory secured them the series title. Nepal played without star striker Sabitra Bhandari (Samba), and striker Purnima Rai made her debut in the game.

National Assembly Committee Agrees to Advance Film Bill

The National Assembly Legislation Management Committee agreed in its Tuesday meeting to advance the Film Bill presented by the government, with a commitment to include necessary amendments. Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel stated that the government would not withdraw the bill and is clear on moving the process forward through extensive modification based on suggestions from the committee, parliamentarians, and stakeholders. Representatives from the film industry, including the Chairman of the Film Development Board, Dinesh DC, and the President of the Film Artists Association of Nepal, Mohan Niroula, emphasized the need for comprehensive amendments to cover various aspects of the film sector.

Film ‘PR’ Trailer Released, Focuses on Nepali Youth in Australia

The trailer for the film PR, directed by Shobhit Basnet, has been released, showcasing the story of young Nepali individuals who travel to Australia to study. The 3-minute, 1-second trailer depicts the struggles and emotional journey of these youths who are primarily focused on obtaining permanent residency (PR). The film stars Suraj Paudel and Binita Karki and includes appearances by veterans such as Neer Shah and Gauri Malla. The movie is scheduled for release on December 12.

Film ‘Bigul’ Set for Nationwide Release on January 23

The film Bigul has released its first-look posters and announced a nationwide release date of January 23, 2026. Directed by Ramesh Koirala and produced by Dinesh Koirala, the film features actors Benisha Hamal, Naren Khadka, and Ramesh Budhathoki in lead roles. Producer Dinesh Koirala stated that the movie aims to raise awareness among youth and women, serving as a “bugle call” for change and the elimination of corruption and social anomalies.

US President Trump Makes Disparaging Comments Towards Somali Immigrants

US President Donald Trump made disparaging remarks towards Somali immigrants on Tuesday during a cabinet meeting, stating, “I don’t want them in our country.” He told reporters they should “go back to where they came from,” arguing that the US would “go the wrong way if we keep taking in garbage into our country.” His comments came amid reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was planning an enforcement operation targeting undocumented Somali immigrants in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, which are home to one of the largest Somali communities in the world. Trump also criticized Representative Ilhan Omar, the first Somali-American elected to Congress, calling her “incompetent.”

US and Russia Fail to Reach Compromise on Ukraine Peace Deal in Kremlin Talks

Talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and top US envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, failed to reach a compromise on a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine, the Kremlin announced on Wednesday. The five-hour meeting in Moscow concluded with Putin’s top foreign policy aide, Yuri Ushakov, stating, “Compromises have not yet been found. There is still a lot of work to be done.” Ushakov noted that Putin reacted negatively to some US proposals, which had previously alarmed Ukrainian and European officials who claimed they favored Moscow’s demands.

South Korean Prosecutors Seek 15-Year Sentence for Former First Lady Kim Keon Hee

South Korean prosecutors on Wednesday requested a combined 15-year prison sentence for former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is currently on trial for bribery and other charges. The charges against Kim, the wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, include stock manipulation, violating political fundraising laws, and accepting bribes from the Unification Church. The case comes amid a year-long probe into the martial law imposed by Yoon last year and related scandals. The Seoul Central District Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on January 28, 2026.

Delhi Hospitals Record Over 200,000 Acute Respiratory Cases Due to Pollution

Between 2022 and 2024, six state-run hospitals in Delhi recorded over 200,000 cases of acute respiratory illnesses, with more than 30,000 people requiring hospitalization, the federal government informed parliament. The toxic air, caused by a mix of industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, dropping temperatures, and seasonal crop stubble burning, has caused the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) to frequently cross the “severe” 400 mark. Hospitals saw 67,054 cases in 2022, 69,293 in 2023, and 68,411 in 2024. The government noted that while rising pollution levels are associated with increased emergency room visits, a definitive causal link has not been confirmed.