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.

SC Issues Show-Cause Order Over Appointment of PM Karki And HoR Dissolution

Supreme Court has issued a show-cause order to the government in response to a series of petitions challenging the appointment of interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki and the subsequent dissolution of the House of Representatives. The constitutional bench, led by Chief Justice Prakashman Singh, and including Justices Sapana Pradhan Malla, Kumar Regmi, Hari Phuyal, and Manoj Kumar Sharma, issued the order after a hearing earlier in the day. The court directed the defendants to submit a written explanation within seven days, but refused to grant an interim order that would have immediately suspended government actions.

High Court Dismisses KMC Police Chief Rajunath Pandey’s Writ

The Patan High Court has dismissed the writ petition filed by Kathmandu Metropolitan Police Chief Rajunath Pandey. Pandey had filed the writ against his suspension order issued by Chief Administrative Officer Saroj Guragain. The joint bench of Justices Dal Bahadur Khadka and Deepak Khanal on Wednesday dismissed Pandey’s petition, confirming that he will remain under suspension.

Constitutional Bench Debates Interim Order in House Dissolution Case

The Supreme Court’s Constitutional Bench deliberated today on a writ petition challenging the dissolution of the House of Representatives, with a key focus on whether an interim order should be issued and its potential scope. Senior Advocate Tikaram Bhattarai requested a two-point interim directive to prevent constitutional damage. He urged the court to instruct the interim government to refrain from actions that violate the constitution or could have long-term consequences, noting that the government’s primary responsibility is to hold elections. During the hearing, justices pressed the lawyers to focus specifically on the interim order.

Court Extends Custody of Former Lawmaker Devi Bhattachan

The Kathmandu District Court has extended the judicial custody of former lawmaker and businessmen Devi Prasad Bhattachan for five more days to allow further investigation into his alleged involvement in the Prabhu Pay and banking fraud case. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police arrested Bhattachan from his residence in Lalitpur yesterday on charges of large-scale financial fraud. According to the CIB, Bhattachan faces accusations of defrauding investors of Rs 980 million through transactions linked to Prabhu Group, where he also serves as Chairman.

US Ambassador Meets Home Minister Aryal to Discuss MCC and Refugee Matters
US Ambassador to Nepal, Dean R. Thompson, met with Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal on Wednesday at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The discussion covered issues of peace and security, implementation of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) project, and matters concerning refugees, according to the Home Minister’s Secretariat. During the meeting, Ambassador Thompson raised concerns regarding land acquisition challenges for the MCC project office. Minister Aryal assured him that he would take immediate steps to resolve the issues.

Minister Ghising Meets Indian Counterpart Khattar to Strengthen Energy Partnership

Minister for Energy, Water Resources, Irrigation, Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Kulman Ghising, held talks with India’s Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affair, Manohar Lal Khattar, on Wednesday in New Delhi. The meeting took place while Minister Ghising was attending the 8th General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The discussions focused on bilateral energy cooperation, electricity trade, expansion of transmission lines, progress of hydropower projects under Indian investment, and long-term partnership in the energy sector between the two countries.

Internal Friction Surfaces as Unified Socialist Central Committee Convenes

The CPN (Unified Socialist) has begun its third central committee meeting amid growing internal debate over party unity and the direction of national politics. Party Chair Madhav Kumar Nepal used the opening session to challenge leaders advocating a reunion with the UML, saying those questioning the 2021 split were “bowing before KP Sharma Oli.”  He defended the decision to form the Unified Socialist, asserting the rebellion’s justification had been proven and urging cadres to face challenges with resolve. General Secretary Ghanshyam Bhusal, speaking at the same meeting, warned that Nepal was heading toward a “political black hole” in the wake of the Gen Z movement.

National Assembly By-Election Set for January 25 Next Year

The Cabinet has decided to hold elections on January 25, 2026, to fill vacant seats in the National Assembly, according to a meeting held on Wednesday. Elections for vacant National Assembly seats are held every two years. Additionally, the government approved amendments to Schedule-2 of the Federal Parliament Members’ Remuneration and Facilities Act, revising the pay and benefits of parliamentary officials and members.

Three Killed in Van Accident en Route From Butwal to Palpa

Three people died in a van accident on the way from Butwal to Myaldhap in Palpa on Wednesday afternoon. According to police, the deceased have been identified as 37-year-old Muktabahadur Budhathoki of Rainadevi Chhahara Rural Municipality-1, Siddheshwar; 34-year-old Kamal Rayamajhi of the same rural municipality-4, Amlabas; and 41-year-old Rambahadur Gaha.

Three Killed, Four Injured in EV Crash in Rupandehi

Three people were killed and four others injured when an electric vehicle (EV) met with an accident in Rupandehi district on Tuesday night. According to police, the deceased have been identified as Khum Bahadur Acharya (45) of Sainamaina Municipality-8, Jitendra Thapa (43) and Khem BK (42) of Kanchan Rural Municipality-5. The accident occurred at Rudrapur in Gaidahawa Rural Municipality-3 when an EV (Province 01-006 Kha 7782) heading from Kapilvastu to Bhairahawa lost control and crashed into a roadside tree. Rupandehi Police Spokesperson DSP Ganesh Sapkota said four others were injured, three of them critically.

Show-Cause Notice Issued Against Gen Z Probe Commission

A writ petition has been filed against the officials of the high-level inquiry commission formed to investigate the Gen Z Movement of September 8-9, and a show-cause notice has now been issued. On Wednesday, Justice Nripadhwaj Niraula’s bench issued the notice in the case against the commission’s Chair Gauri Bahadur Karki and members Bigyanraj Sharma and Bishweshwar Prasad Bhandari. The court also ordered the opposing parties to appear for discussions.

Cyclone Montha to Bring Heavy Rainfall in 27 Districts of Nepal

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued a warning for 27 districts across Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati provinces, cautioning that rainfall triggered by Cyclone Montha — which has developed in the Bay of Bengal — could cause river levels to rise. According to the department, there is a high risk of sudden flooding in small rivers flowing through several districts — including Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Dolakha, Makwanpur, Chitwan, and Sindhuli in Bagmati Province; Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Mahottari, Dhanusha, and Saptari in Madhesh Province; and Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Bhojpur, Dhankuta, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari in Koshi Province.

RSP to Hold Broad Political Dialogue, Launch Voter Registration Campaign

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has announced plans to organize a “Broad Political Dialogue” on October 31 and simultaneously launch a voter registration facilitation campaign. The decisions were made during a two-day party secretariat meeting, General Secretary Kabindra Burlakoti informed. The dialogue aims to provide an open platform for discussion among new political forces, independent thinkers, activists, and representatives of the youth generation, acknowledging the risk of political regression due to lack of collaboration.

Protesting Nurses Halt Services for Two Hours

Nurses working in private hospitals and medical institutions across Nepal suspended services for two hours on Wednesday, demanding that their minimum salaries be implemented in line with government regulations. The protest, called by the Nursing Association of Nepal, took place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. as part of their ongoing agitation. The association had earlier announced a new protest schedule on October 19, including a daily two-hour service halt starting from October 29.

Social Media Will Not Be Blocked in Nepal, Says Minister Kharel

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel has clarified that social media platforms will no longer be shut down in Nepal. Speaking on Wednesday at Singha Durbar during discussions with various associations linked to digital media, Minister Kharel emphasized that social media has become a mainstream communication channel and will not be blocked. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the government in making social media more organized and responsible.

Life in Mustang Disrupted by Heavy Snowfall

Heavy snowfall since early morning has disrupted traffic on the Charang–Lomanthang road, officials said. Deputy Superintendent of Police Chiring Kippa Lama informed that the five-kilometer stretch from Thurlungphaant, where the Nepal Army barracks are located, to Lomanthang has become difficult to navigate due to snow accumulation. “Snow has piled up to eight inches on the Charang–Lomanthang road, making movement challenging,” Lama said. On Tuesday, security personnel at the Armed Police Force Border Outpost in Nechung, Lomanthang-2, cleared snow on the Chhoser–Korala road.

Ram Kumari Jhakri Backs Gen Z Leadership Push in CPN (Unified Socialist)

Ram Kumari Jhakri, leader of CPN (Unified Socialist), has voiced support for Gen Z’s call for leadership transition within the party.  Posting on Facebook, she backed a statement by 526 party-affiliated youth advocating generational change and the handover of leadership. She emphasized that Gen Z must be politically and ideologically organized to lead the country in the future, noting that youth wings of political parties have historically had limited social impact. Her endorsement comes amid ongoing talks of a potential merger between CPN (Maoist Centre) and CPN (Unified Socialist).

Shortage of Vehicles Hampers Rescue of Tourists Trapped in Snow

Life in Manang has been disrupted due to heavy snowfall, with several tourists stranded in snow-affected areas. Security agencies have been working since early morning to rescue them, but a shortage of vehicles has made the operation difficult. Chief District Officer Navaraj Paudyal said, “We are rescuing the stranded tourists. Movement is difficult as some vehicles are also stuck in snow, and there is a shortage of other vehicles.” According to Paudyal, tourists stranded at Tilicho Base Camp were rescued and relocated to Khangsar for further arrangements.

NEPSE Slips by 5.17 Points; Hydropower Shares Gain

The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index saw a minor decline today, dropping by 5.17 points to settle at 2,566.16. A total of 321 companies traded 11,528,284 shares across 50,487 transactions, amounting to a turnover of Rs 5.45 billion, NEPSE reported. Among sectoral indices, Hotel and Tourism rose 2.15%, Hydropower 0.01%, Microfinance 0.13%, and Trade 2%, while all other sectors posted declines.  Banking fell 0.34%, Development Banks 0.91%, Finance 0.77%, Investment 0.17%, Life Insurance 0.64%, Manufacturing & Processing 0.28%, Mutual Funds 0.08%, Non-Life Insurance 0.19%, and other sectors 1.20%.

Nepal Rastra Bank Collects Rs 40 Billion in Deposits

The central bank has absorbed Rs 40 billion through a 175-day deposit auction. According to the bank, the auction was conducted online via the bidding system until 3 p.m. The interest rate will be determined through competitive bidding. The principal and interest will be paid on April 22 next year.

Government Plans to Convert All Public Institutions into Companies

The government has decided to transform all public institutions into limited liability companies governed by a single act. The “Public Institutions Management and Governance Policy, 2025,” approved by the Cabinet on October 13, lays out the strategy to gradually convert all state-run entities under one company law. The policy aims to create a legal foundation for this structural change.

209 Delayed Construction Contracts to be Terminated

The government has begun the process to terminate 209 road, irrigation, and bridge construction contracts due to weak progress despite repeated deadline extensions. Relevant offices have started issuing 15-day public notices asking contractors “why their contracts should not be terminated.” Two contracts have already been canceled. The Kathmandu Road Division alone is terminating 57 contracts, followed by Janakpur (21), Tumlingtar (17), Doti (15), and Ilam (12).

Roadmap for Public Institution Reforms Published

The Ministry of Finance has unveiled a roadmap highlighting challenges such as improving the competitiveness, efficiency, and effectiveness of public institutions. The “Management and Governance Policy for Public Institutions, 2025” emphasizes maintaining financial discipline and ensuring returns on government investments as key challenges. It also stresses organizational restructuring, reducing unnecessary administrative expenses, strengthening boards of directors, and setting up professional and efficient operational frameworks.

New Movie ‘Himalayan Gold’ Announced

Chayalaya Films has announced a new film titled Himalayan Gold. The launch ceremony was held on Tuesday at Kamaladi Ganesthan in Kathmandu. The film will be produced in collaboration with White Elephant Motion Picture, with shooting scheduled to begin in November. The cast includes Pariksha Limbu, Karma, Sunil Thapa, Menuka Pradhan, Sajan Thapa Magar, Ankit Khadka, Sunil Tamang, Tenzing Thakuri, Sabita Adhikari, Rishikesh Basyal, and Rahul Mukhiya.

Film ‘Barishtha Balram’ Earns Over Rs 20 Million in Five Days

The movie Barishtha Balram has grossed over Rs 20 million in its first five days of release. The production team announced the earnings on Tuesday. Released on October 23, the film earned more than Rs 20 million by October 27, according to producer Ashish H. Tamang. While the official box office report has not been made public, Tamang said audiences appreciated the film’s emotional depth and its depiction of local-level conflicts.

‘Gojima Daam Chhaina’ Hits 10 Million Views on YouTube

The popular song “Gojimaa Daam Chhaina” from the movie Changa Chait has surpassed 10 million views on YouTube. Released seven years ago on OSR Digital’s official YouTube channel, the song achieved this milestone on Tuesday. Produced by Madhav Wagle, the track features music by Rajanraj Shiwakoti, with vocals by Rajanraj Shiwakoti, Melina Rai, and Grishma Shiwakoti. The lyrics are written by Harihar Timalsina. The song’s video includes appearances by the movie’s lead actors Priyanka Karki, Sandeep Kshetri, Ayushman Desharaj Joshi, Parmita Rana, Rabindra Jha, and Suraksha Panta.

Singer Pashupati Sharma Advises Artists to Be Cautious About Overseas Shows

Popular singer Pashupati Sharma has urged artists to carefully consider programs abroad before committing. In a social media post, Sharma noted that he has canceled some overseas performances even after signing agreements, anticipating potential issues. He wrote: “Artists, please think and understand before going abroad. Some programs I canceled after agreements because I foresaw possible problems.”

Nepal Defeats India 3–0 in Penalty Shootout

Nepal secured a 3–0 victory against India in a friendly football match held at Paljor Stadium in Sikkim. Both teams were tied 1–1 at the end of the first half, and neither could score in the second half. With the match level at full time, the outcome was decided through a penalty shootout, where Nepal emerged victorious. Goalkeeper Usha Nath guarded Nepal’s post during the regulation 90 minutes.

Defender Puja Rana Becomes First Foreign Player in Bangladeshi Women’s Football

Nepali women’s national football team defender Puja Rana has signed with a Bangladeshi club to play in the SAFF Club Championship. She has joined Nasrin Sports Academy, making her the first-ever foreign player in Bangladeshi women’s football history. The club announced the signing on social media, stating, “Pooja Rana is now part of Nasrin Sports Academy. This marks the first-ever foreign signing in the history of Bangladeshi women’s football.”

Sports Minister Gupta to Chair 123rd National Sports Council Meeting

Newly appointed Sports Minister Bablu Gupta has convened the 123rd board meeting of the National Sports Council (NSC) soon after assuming office. The meeting, to be held on Wednesday, November 5, at 2 PM in the Ministry of Youth and Sports hall at Singha Durbar, is expected to discuss and decide on matters related to the 10th National Games along with other agenda items.

Second Intra-Pathari–Shanischare Gold Cup Football Tournament Schedule Released

The match schedule for the second Intra-Pathari–Shanischare Gold Cup football tournament, set to begin this week, has been released. According to Suman BK, president of the organizing Intra Pathari–11 Football Club in Morang, the tournament will kick off on Saturday. The competition will feature A-Division clubs, other local clubs, and India’s Kanchenjunga Football Club from Siliguri. The opening match will see Siraha’s Salhes Youth Club face Kanchenjunga FC. In the second match, the host team will go up against Brigade Boys Club. The third match will feature Sankata Club Kathmandu versus Panchthar Club Fiddim, while the fourth match will be played between NRT Football Club and Jhapa–11 Football Club Jhapa.

Israel Resumes Ceasefire After Deadly Strikes in Gaza; At Least 104 Killed

Israel announced it had “resumed enforcing the ceasefire” after airstrikes across Gaza killed at least 104 people, including 35 children, according to medical sources. US President Donald Trump commented that Israel “hit back” following the death of an Israeli soldier, but insisted that “nothing is going to jeopardize” the ceasefire. He also stressed that Hamas “has to behave.” The violence followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s order for “powerful” strikes in response to an exchange of gunfire in Rafah, southern Gaza. The Israeli military later confirmed that an Israeli soldier was killed during the clashes. The incident has raised concerns over the fragile ceasefire and renewed international calls for restraint and protection of civilians.

Hurricane Melissa Slams Cuba and Jamaica with Fierce Winds, Heavy Rain

Hurricane Melissa struck Cuba with sustained winds of 115 mph and torrential rainfall after crossing Jamaica, marking one of the strongest storms to hit the island in modern history. In Jamaica, Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the nation a “disaster area,” warning of potentially devastating impacts. Authorities cautioned that the full extent of the damage—including harm to homes, hospitals, and infrastructure—will not be clear until daybreak. The storm has caused widespread concern across the Caribbean as emergency teams brace for relief efforts and assess the immediate risks to communities in its path.

US Strikes on Drug Trafficking Boats Kill 14 in Eastern Pacific

The United States carried out three attacks on boats accused of trafficking illegal narcotics in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, killing 14 people and leaving one survivor, officials announced Tuesday. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth described the strikes on social media as a national security measure, saying, “The Department has spent over TWO DECADES defending other homelands. Now, we’re defending our own.” Critics, however, condemned the operations as extrajudicial killings and potential violations of international law.

Trump Meets South Korean President Lee Amid Stalled Trade Talks

US President Donald Trump met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday during the final leg of his whirlwind trip across Asia. The meeting, which lasted nearly two hours in private, focused on efforts to finalize a trade deal between the two countries, which remains unresolved. Earlier in July, both nations had announced a tentative agreement under which South Korea would avoid the harshest tariffs by committing to $350 billion (£264 billion) in new investments in the United States. However, negotiations over the structure and implementation of these investments have since stalled, leaving the deal in limbo.