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.

RSP Clarifies Claims of Enrolling Minors as Party Members, Blames System Data Error

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has issued a formal clarification following public concerns over data from its first general convention, which suggested the party had 35,257 members under the age of 18. RSP General Secretary Bipin Acharya explained that this figure was a misinterpretation of raw, unverified data from preliminary online applications rather than official membership records.

Abhishek Giri’s Habeas Corpus Petition Dismissed

The High Court Biratnagar has dismissed a writ of habeas corpus filed by Abhishek Giri, who was arrested on charges of extorting the ration allowance and labor wages of inmates at the Morang Jail. A joint bench of High Court Judges Ganesh Thakur and Narayan Prasad Regmi delivered the verdict dismissing the writ on Wednesday, following a hearing on the petition filed by Giri naming the District Police Office and District Court Morang as defendants.

Parliament Panel Continues Review of Forensic Science Bill

The Education, Health, and Information Technology Committee of the House of Representatives continued clause-by-clause discussion on the “National Forensic Science Laboratory (Establishment and Operation) Bill, 2024.” In a meeting at Singha Durbar, lawmakers proposed stronger provisions for reliable testing in serious crimes, improved classification, and research capacity. They also urged inclusion of digital forensics along with biological and physical evidence due to rising cybercrime. Members emphasized adequate laboratories and trained human resources to avoid testing delays. Chair Dr. Ojaswi Sherchan noted lack of higher education for lab staff. The committee will invite experts for further discussion and review.

President Paudel Bids Farewell to Pakistani Ambassador Hashmi

Pakistani Ambassador to Nepal Abrar H. Hashmi paid a farewell courtesy call on President Ram Chandra Paudel at Shital Niwas on Wednesday. President Paudel congratulated Ambassador Hashmi on the successful completion of his diplomatic tenure and wished him success in his future endeavors. He expressed confidence that Nepal-Pakistan relations would continue to strengthen and praised the ambassador’s role in deepening the long-standing ties between the two countries. According to the Office of the President, the meeting reflected the shared commitment of both nations to further expanding bilateral cooperation and maintaining strong diplomatic relations in the years ahead.

Foreign Minister Denies Reports of Nepal–US Military Deal on Uranium Mining in Mustang

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has denied reports claiming any agreement between Nepal and the United States military, or the Nepali Army, regarding uranium mining in Mustang district. Responding in the National Assembly, he said no agreement, understanding, or authorization has been made with any domestic or foreign body for mineral extraction in the area. He termed the reports circulated in some online media as entirely baseless and already rejected by government agencies. The minister reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to non-alignment and Panchsheel principles. He added that any exploration would proceed only through the Department of Mines and Geology under formal procedures.

Nepal Seeks Three-Year Extension for LDC Graduation

Nepal has formally requested the United Nations to extend its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by three years, moving the transition from 2026 to November 24, 2029. Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal informed the National Assembly that the request was submitted on May 13, 2026, citing economic instability, the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change vulnerabilities, and low productivity. The government said LDC graduation would reduce access to trade preferences and foreign aid. It plans to use the extended period to strengthen the economy, expand exports, address structural challenges, and ensure a smoother transition to developing country status.

Nepal, Saudi Arabia Move to Strengthen Parliamentary and Economic Ties

Saudi Arabian Ambassador Fahd bin Mohammed bin Mnikhr paid a courtesy call on Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal at Singha Durbar to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia. During the meeting, Speaker Aryal announced the formation of the Nepal–Saudi Arabia Parliamentary Friendship Group to enhance cooperation with the Saudi Shura Council. He also mentioned preparations to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in March 2027. Aryal thanked Saudi Arabia for hosting around 385,000 Nepali workers and called for increased investment in infrastructure, IT, energy, and tourism. The ambassador reaffirmed commitment to expanding cooperation in multiple sectors.

Minister Timilsina Urges Australia to Expand Scholarships for Nepali Students

Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Bikram Timilsina, met with the Australian Ambassador to Nepal, Simon Ernst, at the ministry on Wednesday to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and development partnerships. The discussions centered on digital transformation, the implementation of federalism, communication sector reforms, and combating the global challenge of misinformation.

Three-Day Weather Forecast: Heavy Rain Predicted Across Nepal

According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Nepal is set to experience variable weather over the next three days, featuring moderate rain with thunderstorms in the hilly and mountainous regions. Tonight (Wednesday), heavy rainfall is expected in isolated areas of the hilly and terai regions within Koshi, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Sudurpashchim provinces.

RSP Central Committee Members Take Oath After First National Convention

Newly elected office bearers and central committee members of the Rastriya Swatantra Party have taken their oath of office and secrecy before re-elected Chairman Rabi Lamichhane at the party headquarters in Banasthali. The 99-member central committee includes the chair, vice-chairs, general secretary, and joint general secretaries. Following the ceremony, Lamichhane distributed certificates to the elected members. The oath comes after the party’s First National Convention of Rastriya Swatantra Party held from June 21–26, 2026.

NHRC Seeks Clarification from RSP Over Alleged Membership of Minors

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has formally written to the Rastriya Swatantra Party seeking an immediate and detailed explanation over reports of party membership being distributed to individuals under 18. Invoking Section 21(1) of the National Human Rights Commission Act, 2011, the NHRC stated that enrolling minors as members violates domestic laws as well as Nepal’s international human rights commitments. The concern stems from a report presented at the party’s recent general convention in Chitwan, which allegedly stated that 35,257 individuals under 18 are registered as members. The commission has requested clarification on the issue, citing serious legal and ethical concerns.

RSP Holds First Central Committee Meeting After Oath Ceremony

The Rastriya Swatantra Party held its first Central Committee meeting following the swearing-in of newly elected office bearers and members after the party’s general convention. The meeting finalized leadership arrangements for key internal bodies. It decided to retain the existing leadership of both the Election Commission and Accounts Commission, while appointing former High Court judge Lekh Nath Paudel as head of the Party Discipline Commission. The committee also passed a vote of thanks, acknowledging security agencies and individuals who supported the successful conduct of the party’s convention.

German Embassy Clarifies Reports on Passport Procurement Case Meeting

The German Embassy in Nepal has clarified media reports related to the passport procurement case, stating that Nepal’s Charge d’Affaires was invited, not summoned, to a meeting at the German Federal Foreign Office. In a Facebook statement, the Embassy said no protest note or official document was handed over during the meeting, nor was any warning issued regarding possible consequences. It emphasized that Germany fully respects judicial independence, which is also enshrined in its constitution. The Embassy further stated it does not comment on ongoing court proceedings and has not done so in this case.

Susta Residents Stage Sit-In in Kathmandu, Continue Demand for Citizenship and Land Rights

Residents from the border area of Susta staged a protest in Kathmandu today, holding a peaceful sit-in at Maitighar Mandala while demanding citizenship certificates and official land ownership documents. The protesters, who arrived in the capital earlier this week, carried soil and documents from their village to symbolize their long-standing grievances. They said they continue to face insecurity and administrative neglect in the encroached border region, along with reported pressure from Indian security forces following recent border-related remarks. They urged the government to immediately address their demands, arguing that legal recognition is essential to protect their identity, livelihoods, and territorial rights.

Madhav Nepal Says Immediate Communist Unity Not Possible

Former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has said the immediate unification of Nepal’s communist parties is not possible, citing a recent statement by CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli. Addressing a party gathering in Pokhara, the Nepali Communist Party co-coordinator urged party workers not to expect an early merger and instead focus on strengthening the party’s organizational structure. He also stressed the need to uphold Marxist-Leninist ideology and called for regular political training at all levels to strengthen the organization and discourage defections. Nepal said building a disciplined and ideologically committed party should remain the priority under the current political circumstances.

NEPSE Rebounds 44.59 Points, Ends Seven-Day Losing Streak

The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) rebounded after seven consecutive sessions of decline, gaining 44.59 points, or 1.70%, to close at 2,652.93 points. The index reversed earlier losses and posted broad-based gains across sectors. The Sensitive Index rose 5.77 points, while Float and Sensitive Float indices also advanced. Total turnover reached Rs 3.85 billion, with over 9.53 million shares traded across 362 companies in 56,769 transactions. Market breadth remained strongly positive, with 252 companies advancing and 17 declining. All 13 sectoral indices closed in the green, led by trading, hydropower, and manufacturing. Snow Rivers gained 14.99%, while Corporate Development Bank fell 5.21%. Laxmi Sunrise Bank led turnover.

CAAN Cuts Domestic Airfares After Aviation Fuel Price Reduction

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has reduced domestic airfares by lowering the fuel surcharge following a Rs 40-per-liter cut in aviation turbine fuel prices by the Nepal Oil Corporation. The revised fares took effect on Wednesday. According to CAAN, the fuel surcharge has been reduced by up to Rs 2,335 depending on the route. The largest reductions apply to longer routes, including Nepalgunj–Bhadrapur, while fares on Kathmandu–Dhangadhi, Kathmandu–Surkhet, and mountain flights have also declined. CAAN reminded airlines that ticket prices must remain within the maximum fare limits set by the authority.

Myagdi Declared Fully Vaccinated District

The district of Myagdi District has been declared fully vaccinated and sustainable, ensuring all children under five have completed required immunization. The announcement was made after all targeted children across six local levels and 45 wards received full vaccine coverage. Health officials said 3,974 children under five and 1,080 infants under 15 months were fully immunized with 13 vaccines, including BCG, DPT, Polio, Measles-Rubella, and JE. The program was supported by 372 Female Community Health Volunteers and a wide health network of hospitals, health posts, and vaccination centers. Officials said door-to-door verification ensured complete coverage. Myagdi is the fourth district in Gandaki Province to achieve sustainable vaccination status this year.

RSP Leaders Seen Using Vehicles with Tinted Windows Despite Police Directives

It has been observed that vehicles used by the Rastriya Swatantra Party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane, along with party ministers, MPs, and other leaders, are operating with black-tinted windows. The issue comes as the Police Headquarters continues to issue circulars across all seven provinces instructing the removal of illegal dark tinting from both public and private vehicles. Despite these directives, multiple party-linked vehicles were reportedly found using tinted glass. Authorities have been enforcing the rule to improve visibility and security compliance, while the continued use of such vehicles has raised questions about adherence to the regulation among political figures.

Gold and Silver Prices Decline in Domestic Market

Gold and silver prices fell in Nepal on Wednesday, according to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association. Gold declined by Rs 600 per tola (11.66 grams) to Rs 277,300, down from Rs 277,900 on Tuesday. Silver also dropped by Rs 15 per tola to Rs 4,270 per tola, compared with Rs 4,285 a day earlier. The latest rates reflect a modest decline in the domestic precious metals market.

China–Nepal Cultural Salon Strengthens Artistic and Academic Exchange

Over 200 artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts from China and Nepal participated in a virtual cultural exchange titled “Lanting Yaji Cultural Salon: Composing the Friendship between China and Nepal.” The event linked participants in Kathmandu and Xi’an through video conferencing and was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming. According to the ambassador’s social media post, the program featured academic discussions, digital calligraphy exhibitions, traditional folk performances, and interactive painting sessions. The initiative aimed to strengthen cultural and academic ties between the two countries and promote mutual understanding through artistic collaboration.

FDB Launches ‘CinePa’ App on 26th Anniversary

The Film Development Board (FDB) marked its 26th anniversary by launching the “CinePa” mobile application to support Nepal’s film industry through digital services, archiving, promotion, and information access, integrating 43 services. The Board also released publications on its annual activities and institutional history and provided Rs 400,000 support to the film “Surilo Rukh” through its pitching process. A list of 31 Nepali films earning over Rs 70 million was unveiled, showing industry growth. The event honored filmmakers, Everest climbers, and distributed identity cards. Officials pledged stronger policy reform, digital transformation, and institutional support for Nepali cinema.

Bipin Karki Joins Cast of ‘Man Binako Dhan 2’

Actor Bipin Karki has joined the cast of the upcoming film Man Binako Dhan 2, with production set to begin soon. His role has not yet been disclosed by the filmmakers. The film is being produced under Tanka Budhathoki Productions and will be directed by Tanka Budhathoki, who also wrote the story. Shivam Adhikari has written the screenplay and dialogues, while pre-production work is currently underway. The cast includes Pooja Sharma, Mahesh Tripathi, Saroj Khanal, and Kiran KC, marking the first on-screen collaboration between Bipin Karki and Pooja Sharma. The first installment of the film earned around Rs 40 million at the box office.

Armon Karki Advances in The Voice Kids Nepal Season 5 After Standout Blind Audition

Eleven-year-old Armon Karki from Hetauda has moved to the next round of The Voice Kids Nepal Season 5 after a strong Blind Audition performance. He sang the classic “Beertako Chino Beerko Santan” by Narayan Gopal, earning chair turns from Coaches Milan Newar and Arjun Sapkota. Armon chose Team Arjun after politely declining Coach Milan. Judges praised his vocal control and stage presence. A Grade 6 student, he is also a multi-instrumentalist and sketch artist, playing guitar, harmonium, and piano. Inspired by Narayan Gopal and Bhaktaraj Acharya, he aspires to become a professional singer.

First RGR Wins British Army Shooting Title for Sixth Consecutive Year

The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles has won the Defense Operational Shooting Competition 2026 Unit Championship for the sixth year in a row, reinforcing its reputation as one of the British Army’s top operational shooting units. The latest victory came in the Defense Operational Shooting Competition 2026 Unit Championship, where the battalion delivered a strong overall performance against competing units. In the individual category, Lance Corporal Milan Buduja was awarded the King’s Medallist for his outstanding performance.

Mbappe Brace Powers France into World Cup Round of 16

Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France cruised to a 3-0 victory over Sweden at MetLife Stadium, securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Mbappe opened the scoring just before halftime with a brilliant solo effort before Bradley Barcola doubled France’s lead in the 53rd minute from a Michael Olise assist. Mbappe added his second in the 74th minute to seal the win. The French captain also set a new World Cup knockout-stage scoring record and moved to 18 career World Cup goals. France will face Paraguay in the Round of 16 on July 4.

Haaland’s Late Winner Sends Norway into World Cup Round of 16

Erling Haaland scored a dramatic 86th-minute winner as Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Antonio Nusa gave Norway the lead in the 39th minute with a stunning long-range strike before Amad Diallo equalised for Ivory Coast in the 74th minute. Haaland sealed victory with his 60th international goal after finishing a flowing team move. The win marks Norway’s first-ever World Cup knockout-stage victory. Norway will face Brazil in the Round of 16, while Ivory Coast exit after their first appearance in a World Cup knockout match.

Mexico Beat Ecuador to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Co-hosts Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over Ecuador to advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout-stage win. Julian Quinones opened the scoring before Raul Jimenez doubled the lead in the first half. Ecuador dominated possession after the break but failed to break Mexico’s disciplined defence, while Piero Hincapie was sent off in stoppage time. The victory extended Mexico’s winning streak to four matches without conceding a goal. Javier Aguirre’s side will next face the winner of the England-DR Congo Round of 32 clash.

Three-Year-Old Rescued Alive Six Days After Venezuela Earthquakes

A three-year-old boy has been rescued alive from the rubble six days after devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, according to a Jordanian rescue team. The child, identified as Klieber Morán, was pulled from debris in La Guaira state. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez described his rescue as a “source of hope” for the country amid widespread devastation. The death toll from last week’s 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes has risen to 1,943, with more than 10,000 injured and tens of thousands still missing. The United Nations has warned of urgent shortages of food and shelter for survivors. The Jordanian civil defence said the child received first aid and was in stable condition in Caracas.

Pakistan Power Crisis Worsens as Heatwave Triggers Severe Electricity Shortages

Pakistan is experiencing a worsening electricity crisis as an intense heatwave and extended power cuts continue to disrupt daily life in major urban areas, including the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. According to reports, soaring temperatures crossing 40°C have sharply increased electricity demand, particularly for cooling, placing additional strain on an already stressed power grid. Frequent and prolonged load shedding has left residents struggling with water shortages, disrupted routines, and heightened health risks during peak summer conditions. Officials say the situation reflects ongoing structural issues in the energy sector, compounded by seasonal heat stress that regularly pushes demand beyond supply capacity.

Trump Reports Over USD 1 Billion in Crypto Earnings, Sparking Conflict of Interest Debate

US President Donald Trump reported earning more than USD 1 billion from cryptocurrency-related business dealings in 2025, according to a 927-page mandatory financial disclosure. The filing shows USD 635 million in royalties from a Trump meme coin launched before taking office and over USD 500 million from World Liberty Financial, a crypto firm linked to his family. The White House denied any conflict of interest, stating Trump has placed his businesses in a trust managed by his sons and is acting in the public interest. Critics, however, including former ethics officials, called the earnings “extraordinary” and raised concerns over potential conflicts between presidential duties and private financial gains.