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.
House Panel Formed to Probe Vandalism During Parliamentary Session
Speaker Dol Prasad (DP) Aryal has formed a committee to investigate vandalism and alleged misconduct during Sunday’s House of Representatives meeting. The panel, coordinated by House Secretary Prakash Adhikari, has been tasked with examining the incident and submitting a report within seven days. The committee also includes chiefs of the Internal Service and Planning Management Division and the Technology Management Division of the Federal Parliament Secretariat. According to the Speaker, the move follows reports that some lawmakers engaged in objectionable conduct, causing damage to parliamentary property. A damage assessment has already been completed. Based on the committee’s findings, action may be taken under Rule 33(4) of the House of Representatives Regulations 2026. The incident occurred after opposition lawmakers protested the process of passing House regulations, during which chairs and microphones were damaged.
National Assembly Adjourned Amid Protests Over PM’s Border Remarks
The National Assembly session on Monday has been adjourned until tomorrow (Tuesday) following continuous disruptions by lawmakers. The protest was triggered by Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s controversial remarks regarding the Nepal-India border dispute. Initially, the meeting was adjourned for 20 minutes after lawmakers chanted slogans demanding the Prime Minister’s resignation. Following the emergency session where MPs aired their grievances, all lawmakers stood up from their seats in collective protest. Notably, the ruling Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP) does not hold a single seat in the National Assembly. National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal repeatedly urged the protesting lawmakers to take their seats and allow the regular parliamentary agenda to proceed. However, defying Chairman Dahal’s requests, the MPs continued their standing protest and obstruction. As a result, the session was officially adjourned to reconvene tomorrow, Tuesday, at 1:15 PM.
Opposition Parties Continued House Obstruction Over PM Shah’s Border Remarks
Opposition parties continued to obstruct Monday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, demanding an apology from Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) and the removal of his remarks on Nepal-India border issues from the parliamentary record. The protest stems from the Prime Minister’s statement in Sunday’s House session that Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory. Opposition lawmakers argued that the remarks were misleading and contrary to the national interest. Speaking in the House, Nepali Communist Party Chief Whip Yubaraj Dulal said the statement reflected a misunderstanding of border issues and urged that parliamentary proceedings not move forward until it is withdrawn. Similarly, Shram Sanskriti Party lawmaker Aren Rai and Rastriya Prajatantra Party parliamentary leader Gyanendra Bahadur Shahi demanded that the Prime Minister either present evidence supporting his claim or formally apologize. Amid continued protests, the House meeting was adjourned for 15 minutes; however, the meeting never started again.
Madhesh Assembly Adjourned After Opposition Walkout
The Madhesh Provincial Assembly meeting was adjourned after opposition parties walked out during discussions on the government’s policy and program. Opposition lawmakers left the chamber after presenting amendment proposals and expressing their views. Amendments were registered by members of the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP-Nepal), Janamat Party, CPN (UML), and the Nepali Communist Party. During the discussion, JSP-Nepal lawmaker Lalbabu Raut criticized the government for failing to include concrete measures on implementing the Provincial Police Act and advancing federalism. Janamat Party leader Sanjay Kumar Yadav argued that the policy and program did not address public aspirations and needs. Following the walkout, Speaker Ram Ashish Yadav said discussions would continue and adjourned the meeting until 1:00 pm on Tuesday. Opposition parties said they could not support what they described as a non-people-oriented policy document.
Bagmati Provincial Assembly Begins Discussion on Policy and Program Today
The Bagmati Provincial Assembly is set to begin discussions today on the policy and program for the upcoming fiscal year 2026/27 presented by the provincial government. According to Provincial Assembly Secretary Ram Kumar Poudel, the Assembly meeting scheduled for 1:00 PM will hold clause-by-clause deliberations on the government’s policy and program. The policy and program were presented by Bagmati Province Chief Dipak Prasad Devkota during the Provincial Assembly meeting held on May 26. The discussions are expected to focus on the government’s priorities, development plans, and policy direction for the next fiscal year.
RSP Chair Lamichhane Arrives in New Delhi on BJP Invitation
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane has arrived in India’s capital, New Delhi, on Monday following an invitation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to his secretariat, Lamichhane is scheduled to hold a series of political meetings and discussions during his visit aimed at strengthening political engagement and exchanges. On arrival, the delegation led by Lamichhane was received at the airport by BJP National General Secretary and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Arun Singh. The visit is expected to include multiple high-level interactions over the coming days.
3 Killed, 5 Injured in Dailekh Jeep Accident
At least three people have lost their lives in a vehicular accident in Dailekh district. The incident occurred when a Bolero jeep crashed at Kalgauda in Bhairabi Rural Municipality, resulting in the immediate death of three individuals at the scene. Five others sustained injuries in the accident. Local residents and security personnel acted swiftly to rescue the injured from the crash site. Among the injured, two are currently receiving treatment at the local Bhairabi Health Post, while the remaining three have been rushed to the Dailekh District Hospital for further medical care. The identities of the deceased and the condition of the injured are yet to be ascertained. Locals note that this particular road section has become increasingly dangerous recently. Travel along this route remains highly risky due to the dilapidated condition of the road and the challenging geographical terrain.
Special Court Grants Bail to Krishna Bahadur Mahara in Gold Smuggling Case
Former Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara has been released on bail of Rs 100,000 by the Special Court in connection with the electronic cigarette (vape)-based gold-smuggling case. A joint bench ordered his release following charges filed by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) over an alleged gold smuggling network operating through vape devices imported from China. The case also includes his son and 28 others. The CIAA has accused the group of running an organized smuggling operation during 2022 and 2023, allegedly involving concealment of gold in electronic cigarettes and cross-border distribution. The anti-graft body has sought penalties totaling Rs 70 million. The case is under continued legal proceedings.
Karuna Katuwal Appointed President of the Nepal Student Union
Karuna Katuwal has been appointed as the President of the Nepal Student Union (NSU). Party President Gagan Kumar Thapa appointed her today in accordance with the party’s constitution. Following the decision made during the Nepali Congress Central Working Performance Committee meeting on May 4, the NSU—which had been automatically dissolved after its term expired under the party constitution—saw Katuwal’s appointment to the top post. President Katuwal has also been assigned her responsibilities alongside an 11-point mandate and job description to ensure the general convention is successfully conducted within the stipulated timeframe.
Shram Sanskriti Party Condemns PM Shah’s Border Remarks
The Shram Sanskriti Party has strongly objected to Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s statement in Parliament regarding the Nepal-India border issue, calling it an attempt to undermine the country’s established position on territorial disputes. In a statement issued by party chair Harka Sampang, the party described the Prime Minister’s remarks that “Nepal has encroached on India’s land in many places” as suspicious, objectionable, and indicative of what it termed a “treasonous intention.” The party argued that the statement weakens Nepal’s longstanding claim over Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura and creates confusion about the country’s position in the international arena. The statement also questioned the government’s commitment to protecting territorial integrity, alleging that state institutions have failed to prioritize border issues. The party said it would continue to oppose the Prime Minister’s remarks and the government’s handling of the matter.
RSP Forms Main Committee for First General Convention
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has stepped up preparations for its first General Convention, scheduled to be held in Chitwan from June 21 to 23, by forming a high-level Main Organizing Committee led by party chairman Rabi Lamichhane. According to party spokesperson Kabindra Burlakoti, the committee has been tasked with ensuring the successful management of the party’s maiden national convention. The panel includes Vice-Chairman Swarnim Wagle, senior office-bearers, secretariat members, and central leaders. It has also been expanded to include all central committee members and provincial chairpersons from all seven provinces. RSP said the broader structure is intended to strengthen coordination and representation ahead of the three-day convention in Chitwan.
Nepali Communist Party Demands Withdrawal of PM Shah’s Border Remarks
The Nepali Communist Party has strongly objected to Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s remarks in the House of Representatives on the Nepal-India border issue, calling them irresponsible and contrary to historical facts. In a statement issued on Monday by spokesperson Prakash Jwala, the party said the Prime Minister’s May 31 remarks undermined national sovereignty and misrepresented border realities. The party rejected the claim that Nepal has occupied Indian territory, arguing instead that cross-border landholding by residents should not be confused with encroachment. It stressed that Nepal has never occupied foreign land and cited historical and treaty-based boundaries, including the Sugauli Treaty, to support its position. The party demanded that the Prime Minister correct his statement, remove it from the parliamentary record, and pursue diplomatic dialogue based on national consensus.
Nepali Congress Objects to PM Shah’s Remarks on Border Issue
The Nepali Congress has also strongly objected to Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s comments in parliament regarding the Nepal-India border dispute, terming them irresponsible and against national interest. In a press statement issued on Sunday night, party spokesperson Dev Raj Chalise said the prime minister made statements without historical basis or evidence, raising concerns over sovereignty and territorial integrity. The party rejected any comparison between established territorial claims, including Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura, and minor technical border issues. It also argued that such remarks weaken Nepal’s official position. The Nepali Congress further objected to the claim that Nepal is engaged in dialogue with the United Kingdom on border matters, calling it misleading.
Army Chief Sigdel Highlights UN Peacekeeping Contribution of Army
Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) Ashokraj Sigdel today said the Army’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions is significant for global peace. Speaking at a special program at Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre, Panchkhal, on the occasion of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, CoAS Sigdel highlighted the army’s long-standing role in supporting peace operations under the UN Charter. He said the primary objective of the Army is to maintain peace, adding that professionalism, integrity, and commitment to duty define the institution’s identity. He also noted that the international reputation earned by Nepali peacekeepers is a matter of national pride. On the occasion, families of two fallen peacekeepers and five outstanding peacekeepers were honored. Nepal currently contributes 4,179 peacekeepers, making it one of the leading troop-contributing countries to UN missions.
Army Participates in Inaugural Multinational Military Drill ‘Ex Pragati’ in India
A 38-member contingent of the Army participated in the first edition of the Multinational Neighborhood Military Field Training Exercise, ‘Ex Pragati’, conducted by the Indian Army at FTN, Umroi from May 18 to May 31. The exercise involved the participation of eleven foreign countries, aiming to develop collective capabilities and enhance operational synergy and mutual trust among the participating nations. A three-member observer delegation from Nepal, led by Lt Gen Pradeep Jung KC, Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS) of the Nepali Army, attended the Validation Phase and Closing Ceremony of the exercise from May 28 to May 31 at Umroi. The engagement serves to maintain the military-to-military connection and defense partnership between India and Nepal.
US Under Secretary Meets Foreign Minister Khanal Today
The United States Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, Sarah B. Rogers, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu on Sunday. During the meeting, both sides held discussions on further strengthening the long-standing Nepal–United States relations. According to the ministry, the talks focused on expanding cooperation in key areas, including investment, trade, culture, and tourism, with both officials expressing commitment to deepening bilateral engagement built over decades of diplomatic ties.
Swiss and Japanese Ambassadors Seen Together at KIMFF Screening of ‘Climbing for Life’
Swiss Ambassador to Nepal Danielle Meuwly and Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru were seen together attending a special screening of the Japanese film Climbing for Life at the Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF) in Kathmandu on May 30, 2026. The film portrays the life of mountaineer Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest, and is based on her adventurous journey. It had earlier been screened at the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival in October 2025, marking the 50th anniversary of her historic Everest achievement. The film was awarded the Audience Award, as voted by festival viewers, reflecting strong audience engagement and its thematic connection with Nepal.
6th Nepal Indigenous Film Festival begins in Kathmandu
The sixth Nepal Indigenous Film Festival has begun in the federal capital, showcasing films that highlight indigenous languages, cultures, traditions, and histories. The three-day festival, organized at the Film Development Board premises in Chabahil, will feature feature films, short films, documentaries, and AI-generated documentaries. Organizers said the festival aims to promote indigenous identity at national and international levels. Various films, including Peet, Swayambhu, Dolsyo Ramrani, Hyang Tanachha, and Dilsara, will be screened during the event. Awards will be presented in multiple categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Documentary.
ICC Restructures Men’s Twenty20 World Cup Global Qualifiers
The International Cricket Council (ICC) board concluded a high-level administrative meeting on Sunday, deciding to rebuild the competitive framework for the men’s T20 World Cup global qualifiers. The new structure will organize a single global tournament featuring 16 qualifying nations to secure a spot in the World Cup. This shifts away from the recent regional format where teams secured World Cup entry directly through continental qualifiers. The international governing body designed this tournament update to give elite cricket nations a fair chance at entering the main tournament, though the implementation timeline has not yet been specified.
Board Confirms Women’s T20 World Cup Formats and Suspends Cricket Canada
The International Cricket Council (ICC) restructured its upcoming tournament calendar today, scheduling the 2027 women’s champions trophy to run from February 14 to February 28. The board also confirmed a 12-team pool for the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan, noting that matches involving India will take place at neutral venues. Concurrently, the governing body suspended Cricket Canada with immediate effect for violating core membership terms. Despite the suspension, Canadian athletes can still play in official tournaments, though all national operational funding will move under direct international oversight.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Secure Consecutive IPL Title Victory
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the Indian Premier League (IPL) championship title last night, defeating the Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets to secure their second consecutive tournament victory. Playing at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the squad chased down a target of 156 runs by finishing at 156/5 with 12 balls remaining in the final match. Opening batsman Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 75 runs off 42 balls, smashing 9 fours and 3 sixes. Earlier, the opposition posted 155/8 within their 20 overs, anchored by a 50-run contribution, while bowler Rashik Salam claimed 3 wickets.
Dua Lipa Marries Actor Callum Turner in Private London Ceremony
Pop star Dua Lipa has married actor Callum Turner in an intimate ceremony at Old Marylebone Town Hall in London on Sunday, marking a low-key celebration attended by close family and friends. The couple, together for more than two years, were seen leaving the venue hand-in-hand as confetti was thrown by guests. Lipa wore a white skirt suit with a wide-brimmed hat, gloves, and heels, while Turner appeared in a dark blue suit. The singer had announced their engagement last year, saying they planned to build a life together. The couple is now reportedly preparing for a three-day celebration in Sicily later this month. Lipa is one of the world’s leading pop stars, while Turner is known for his film roles and rising profile in Hollywood.
Israel Orders Strikes on Beirut Suburbs as Lebanon Conflict Escalates
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered strikes on the Dahieh district in southern Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold, following renewed rocket and drone attacks from the Iran-backed group. Israeli officials said the operation targets “terror sites” and is a response to alleged ceasefire violations since the April truce. The announcement triggered panic in Beirut’s southern suburbs, with residents fleeing in large numbers amid fears of renewed heavy bombardment. Traffic jams formed as families evacuated with belongings, while tensions rose across Lebanon. Lebanese officials said they are relying on US-led mediation efforts to prevent further escalation, including a proposed gradual de-escalation plan discussed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio with both Israeli and Lebanese leaders. The conflict has intensified despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, with thousands already killed in Lebanon since the war began and cross-border strikes continuing on both sides.