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.

PM Consults with Madhesh Province Lawmakers

Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) held a consultative meeting with members of the House of Representatives from Madhesh Province at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar on Wednesday. This meeting follows similar discussions held yesterday, with lawmakers from Sudurpashchim, Karnali, and Koshi provinces. The sessions are designed to identify specific regional problems and develop collaborative solutions between the federal government and local representatives to ensure balanced development across the country.

All-Party Meeting Sets Speaker Election for April 4

An all-party meeting chaired by senior member Arjun Narasingh KC has scheduled the election for the Speaker of the House of Representatives for Saturday. According to Kavindra Burlakoti, General Secretary of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), nominations will be filed on April 3. The first session of the House on Thursday will pay tribute to martyrs of the Gen Z protest and feature addresses from top political leaders. Until new regulations are drafted, the parliament will operate under existing rules. The meeting included representatives from the Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), Rastriya Swatantra Party, and Rastriya Prajatantra Party.

Vice President Meets with Saudi Arabian Ambassador

Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav and Saudi Arabian Ambassador Fahad bin Mohammed Al-Manikar held a diplomatic meeting on Wednesday. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, which were established in 1977. The vice president highlighted the importance of the labor agreement signed on January 25 for protecting the rights of Nepali workers in Saudi Arabia. He also invited Saudi investment in Nepal’s infrastructure, IT, and energy sectors as the country prepares to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026.

Home Minister Visits Elderly Victim of Political Mistreatment

Home Minister Sudhan Gurung visited the residence of an elderly citizen who was mistreated by CPN (UML) activists during a protest. The incident, which went viral on social media, occurred while activists were protesting the arrest of party Chairman KP Sharma Oli. Following the Home Minister’s directive, Lalitpur Police arrested Ram Sharan Sharma Bajgain, who is currently being held at the Kathmandu District Police Range for investigation. During the visit on Tuesday evening, the victim expressed gratitude for the swift government action and legal intervention.

Over 512,000 Students to Begin SEE Exams Tomorrow

Preparation is complete for the Secondary Education Examination (SEE), scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM on Thursday. A total of 512,471 students from 11,379 schools will participate across 1,966 centers, including one in Japan. Kathmandu has the highest turnout with 41,155 students, while Manang has the lowest with 37. The National Examination Board aims to publish results within one month by implementing on-site answer sheet evaluation. Special arrangements, including extra time and scribes, have been made for students with disabilities and those in juvenile correction centers.

Police Rescue 127 Nepalis from Cyber Scam Operations in Cambodia

The Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau of the Nepal Police has rescued 127 Nepali citizens from Cambodia over the past month. According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Krishna Pangeni, eight individuals were brought back to Kathmandu on Wednesday. Investigations reveal that victims are often lured with promises of computer-related or security guard jobs, only to be held as “cyber slaves” in remote camps to conduct online fraud. Authorities have filed eight legal cases in the last month and recently arrested one suspect involved in the racket. Similar operations targeting Nepalis have also been identified in Thailand and Myanmar.

Sapana Pradhan Malla Assumes Role as Acting Chief Justice

Sapana Pradhan Malla has taken charge as the acting chief justice of the Supreme Court following the retirement of Prakash Man Singh Raut yesterday. Malla, a former member of the Constituent Assembly, was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2016. While the Judicial Council has recommended 6 candidates for the permanent position, including Kumar Regmi and Hari Phuyal, the formal appointment process remains stalled as the Constitutional Council is currently incomplete. If confirmed, Malla would serve as chief justice until 2028.

Rabi Lamichhane Receives Court Date for Cooperative Fraud Case

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) President Rabi Lamichhane appeared at the Parsa District Court on Tuesday to receive his next hearing date. The case involves the Sano Paila Cooperative fraud, where the Parsa District Government Attorney’s Office has filed a claim for Rs 115.6 million. Lamichhane, who previously posted a bail of Rs 10 million, stated that the RSP remains committed to fulfilling the promises made to citizens during the election. Court officials confirmed that the legal process is ongoing following the initial filing of the case in 2025.

Decision on KP Sharma Oli’s Surgery Expected on Thursday

A decision regarding gallbladder surgery for CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli is expected on Thursday. Oli, who was arrested on Saturday following recommendations from a government investigation commission regarding the events of September 8, 2025, is currently under medical supervision at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. Doctors are awaiting culture reports to determine if a suspected urinary tract infection is present before proceeding with the operation. The Kathmandu District Court has granted a 5-day remand for investigation while he remains in the hospital.

Ministry Issues Warning to Civil Servants Refusing Transfers

The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration has warned civil servants that they must report to their assigned posts or “pave the way” for others. Following the transfer of 63 undersecretaries on Monday and 6 joint secretaries on Tuesday, many officials expressed reluctance to relocate outside Kathmandu. Minister Pratibha Rawal emphasized that the government is committed to providing public services across all local levels, including municipalities and rural municipalities. The ministry plans to appoint chief administrative officers to all remaining vacant local units within the next few days to ensure administrative continuity.

Youth Activist Files Cyber Bureau Complaint Over Online Sexual Violence

Amisha Parajuli, a 20-year-old activist, filed a formal complaint at the Cyber Bureau on Wednesday following a campaign of digital violence against her. After she expressed her support for the release of KP Sharma Oli during a street protest, video clips of her went viral, triggering thousands of derogatory comments involving character assassination and threats of sexual violence. Bureau spokesperson SP Dilip Kumar Giri confirmed the complaint is being processed under Section 47 of the Electronic Transactions Act, 2008, which carries penalties of up to Rs 100,000 in fines or 5 years of imprisonment. Parajuli, who was also active in the Gen Z anti-corruption movement, stated that while the insults do not deter her voice, she is pursuing legal action to set a precedent against digital harassment and misogyny.

Supreme Court Refuses Interim Order Against Proportional Representation Lawmakers

The Supreme Court has declined to issue an interim order to remove Arjun Narasingh KC of the Nepali Congress and Padma Aryal of the CPN (UML) from their positions as proportional representation (PR) lawmakers. A writ filed by social justice activist Khajanti Mahato Nuniyan argued that the repeated selection of the same individuals from the “Khas Arya” cluster violates the constitutional spirit of the PR system. While Justice Shreekanth Paudel refused to halt their participation in parliament, the court has issued show-cause orders and granted the case priority status for future hearings.

Lalitpur District Court to Remain Open During Lunch Hours

The Lalitpur District Court has announced that it will no longer halt services during lunch breaks. Effective from Tuesday, the court administration has implemented a rotating schedule to ensure that service seekers are attended to between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM from Sunday to Thursday and until 2:00 PM on Fridays. This decision aims to reduce waiting times and ensure that legal proceedings and administrative tasks continue without interruption during the standard midday break period.

US Lowers Nepal Travel Advisory to Level 2, Urges Caution

The United States has lowered its travel advisory for Nepal to Level 2, citing improved stability after protests subsided, but warned that unrest may still occur, especially in cities. Demonstrations can arise without warning and turn violent, prompting advice to avoid crowds. The advisory flags limited medical capacity, noting Kathmandu hospitals may be overcrowded and require upfront payment. Travelers are urged to carry medicines and obtain insurance, including evacuation coverage. It also highlights risks from earthquakes, floods, and landslides, particularly during the monsoon. Travelers are advised to monitor local updates and enroll in emergency alert systems.

Election Commission to Resume Voter List Update on April 5

The Election Commission will resume the collection and updating of voter lists starting Sunday, April 5. The process had been suspended since November 22, 2025, following the announcement of the House of Representatives elections. Citizens who possess a National ID number can now register or update their details through an online system. Those without a national ID must fill out an online form and visit their respective district election office to provide biometric data, including photos and fingerprints. The system also allows for corrections of errors, removal of duplicate names, and updates regarding death or migration.

Traffic Police Penalize 16 Drivers in Morning Surprise Checks

During a “surprise checking” operation on Wednesday, the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police penalized 16 drivers for driving under the influence. The operation focused on high-risk sectors, resulting in the detention of 11 public transport drivers, including those operating school buses, passenger vans, and micro-buses. Additionally, one tractor driver, two private car owners, and two motorcyclists were caught. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious behavior or signs of intoxication in drivers by calling the traffic hotline 103 or the emergency number 100 to ensure passenger safety.

Supreme Court Issues Show-Cause Orders in High-Profile Custody Cases

The Supreme Court has issued show-cause orders in response to habeas corpus petitions filed for former Energy Minister Deepak Khadka and Lumbini Provincial Assembly member Rekha Kumari Sharma. The petitions were filed by Khadka’s wife and Sharma’s husband following their respective arrests. Khadka is currently under investigation for money laundering, while Sharma faces charges related to child rights violations. The bench of Justice Shreekanth Paudel has directed the opposing parties to provide legal justification for the continued detention of both individuals.

Corruption Charges Filed Against 8 at Parsa Land Revenue Officials

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed corruption cases against 8 former officials of the Land Revenue Office in Parsa. The charges relate to the fiscal year 2013/14, where officials allegedly used duplicate and triplicate registration numbers to hide revenue from multiple property transactions. Specifically, the CIAA has sought the recovery of Rs 11 million from Bhup Bahadur Bogati, Rs 9.9 million from Surendra Prasad Rao Kurmi, and Rs 29.3 million from the heirs of the late Kiran Prasad Upadhyay. The commission is requesting double the embezzled amount in fines along with prison sentences.

House Agreement Reached on First Session Agenda

Political parties represented in the House of Representatives have agreed to present the proposal for the election of the Speaker during the very first session of the new term. Following a meeting chaired by Arjun Narasingh KC, parties agreed that the session starting Thursday will focus on tributes to martyrs and addresses by senior leaders. Additionally, the House will continue to use the old regulations until a new draft is finalized by a dedicated committee. Participants in the meeting included Law Minister Sobita Gautam and leaders from the Nepali Congress, CPN (UML), RSP, and RPP.

Ram Bahadur Thapa Elected CPN (UML) Parliamentary Party Leader

Ram Bahadur Thapa (Badal) has been elected as the parliamentary party leader of the CPN (UML). The election took place on Wednesday at the party’s central office in Chyasal. Although Suhang Nembang had initially expressed interest in the position, he withdrew his candidacy, leading to the unopposed selection of Thapa. The process was overseen by election committee coordinator Niraj Acharya.

Shekhar Koirala Warns of Designs to Dissolve Nepali Congress

During a meeting of the Purna Bahadur Khadka faction on Wednesday, the Nepali Congress leader Shekhar Koirala claimed that various “experiments” are being conducted as part of a design to finish the party. Koirala criticized the current practice of “controlled democracy” and expressed a willingness to coordinate with the party establishment but emphasized that his group would not surrender their principles. His remarks, largely seen as directed toward Gagan Thapa, highlighted the deepening internal divisions within the party following the recent political shifts and the Gen Z protest.

Bagmati Province Congress Urges House Session by April 7

The Nepali Congress Bagmati Province parliamentary party, led by Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya, has formally requested that the Provincial Assembly session be convened by April 7. The assembly has not met since August 12, 2025. During the meeting, members discussed a report on administrative restructuring, which suggests reducing the number of provincial ministries from 14 to 7 to improve efficiency and budget management. The party is also in talks with other political entities to finalize the selection of a new Speaker for the Provincial Assembly.

Police Use April Fool’s Prank to Raise Scam Awareness

The police integrated an April Fool’s Day prank into a digital awareness campaign on Wednesday. The police released a social media post featuring a QR code, urging citizens to scan it to check for any pending complaints against them. Upon scanning, users were met with a “Happy April Fool’s” message followed by a warning that similar QR codes are frequently used by scammers to compromise personal data. The initiative, which was widely praised by the youth for its creative approach to cybersecurity education, aimed to highlight the increasing risks of digital scams as technology evolves.

Gandaki Province to Formally Launch Ride-Sharing Services

The Gandaki Province government is finalizing preparations to officially authorize ride-sharing and self-drive services under the Gandaki Province Ride-Sharing (Regulation and Management) Rules, 2025. Currently, 2 companies are in the process of registration with the Transport Management Office in Kaski. Under the new regulations, companies must pay registration fees of Rs 25 for two-wheelers and Rs 50,000 for four-wheelers, with 2% of each transaction contributed to the provincial revenue fund. While the government aims to legalize and tax existing services, the National Federation of Transport Entrepreneurs in Gandaki has expressed concerns, particularly regarding the inclusion of four-wheeled private vehicles in the ride-sharing scheme.

Department Prohibits Middlemen from Accessing Land Office Records

The Department of Land Management and Archive has issued a nationwide directive strictly prohibiting middlemen and unauthorized individuals from accessing sensitive land records and office files. In a circular sent to all Land Revenue and Land Reform Offices on Wednesday, the department noted that middlemen and unauthorized assistants have been found handling confidential documents and moving files between branches. Signed by Section Officer Kul Prasad Parajuli, the directive mandates strict adherence to the Land Administration Directive, 2025, which protects the security of land registers. Moving forward, only authorized employees are permitted to handle official files, and entry into the record rooms by middlemen or external parties is completely restricted to prevent tampering and maintain privacy.

Gandaki Province Passes Public Health Service Bill

The Gandaki Provincial Assembly unanimously passed the Gandaki Province Public Health Service Bill on Tuesday. The bill, which underwent detailed discussions in the Social Development and Agriculture Committee, was presented by Health Minister Krishna Prasad Pathak. During the session, Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey stated that the government remains committed to good governance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures. While no new bills were introduced during the current winter session due to time constraints, the assembly focused on establishing provincial rights and addressing contemporary issues raised by members during zero hour.

Bir Hospital Implements Strict Attendance and Discipline Protocols

The National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) Bir Hospital Management Committee has introduced 14 major decisions to improve service delivery and professional discipline. Starting April 14, office hours will be strictly enforced from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and any late arrivals or unauthorized absences will result in a half-day salary deduction. Director Dr. Dilip Sharma announced the formation of two audit committees: a cleanliness audit led by Sangita Shrestha and an attendance audit led by Dr. Min Chandra Adhikari. Additionally, doctors are now legally required to clearly state their name, NMC number, and signature on all prescriptions and discharge papers, while the hospital plans to introduce performance-based incentives for staff working in the OT and Cath Lab.

Health Camp Screens 520 for Sickle Cell and Thalassemia

A free health screening camp in Shankarpur, Laljhadi Rural Municipality, Kanchanpur, tested 520 individuals for sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. The screening identified 41 carriers, 29 women and 12 men, who have been referred to the Provincial Public Health Laboratory in Dhangadhi for confirmatory testing. These hereditary blood disorders are prevalent in the local community, and health officials emphasized that early detection is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing transmission to future generations. Simultaneously, an eye camp at the same location served 248 patients, resulting in 28 referrals for cataract surgery and the distribution of 38 pairs of reading glasses.

Measles Outbreak Persists in Dhorpatan and Tamankhola

A measles outbreak that began on February 20 in Dhorpatan Municipality remains uncontained despite extensive vaccination efforts. While 5,934 children and adolescents aged 10 to 19 have been vaccinated, new suspected cases have emerged in Tamankhola Rural Municipality. Currently, there are 13 confirmed cases and 205 suspected patients, with 4 individuals hospitalized. The Provincial Public Health Office has sent 33 samples to the National Public Health Laboratory in Kathmandu for further testing and plans to expand the vaccination drive across 4 local units in western Baglung.

Nepal Telecom Initiates Transition from 3G to 4G Services

Nepal Telecom has launched a phased plan to shut down its 3G network and upgrade all users to 4G technology to improve mobile internet speeds and service quality. The company is notifying customers via voice calls and SMS to exchange their old SIM cards for 4G-enabled ones free of charge. To complete the upgrade, customers must visit a telecommunications office with valid identification, such as a citizenship certificate, national ID, or passport. Users can check their SIM compatibility and activate 4G or VoLTE services by dialing *444#.

Four-Day Women’s Film Festival Commences in Kathmandu

The Film Development Board has inaugurated a 4-day Women’s Film Festival aimed at empowering female filmmakers, running until April 4. The festival opened with a screening of the classic film Kumari, featuring an interaction with lead actress and “First Heroine” of Nepal, Bhuwan Chand. Board Chairman Dinesh DC emphasized that the festival highlights the leadership and social transformation led by women in the industry beyond just acting. The event includes screenings of Jiban Kanda Ki Phool, cultural performances, and workshops designed to inspire the next generation of female directors and technicians.

Shambala Dominates 2024 Critics Awards with Three Major Wins

The Film Critics Society (Fiction) announced the winners of this year’s Critics Awards on Wednesday, with the film Shambala sweeping three major categories. Shambala was named Best Film, while Min Bahadur Bham won Best Director and Thinley Lhamo took home Best Actress. Dayahang Rai won Best Actor for his role in Gaun Aayeko Baato, and Kishore Acharya was awarded for Best Sound Design. Society President Samipya Raj Timalsina noted that while the ceremony was delayed due to the Gen Z protest and elections, a grand joint ceremony for the 2024 and 2025 awards will be held next year.

Sandeep Lamichhane Leads Bagmati to Victory with 7-Wicket Haul

Captain Sandeep Lamichhane delivered a dominant performance, taking 7 wickets for 40 runs to lead Bagmati Province to a 60-run victory over Karnali Province. In the Prime Minister Cup Men’s National Cricket Tournament held at the Ram Janaki Cricket Ground in Janakpur on Wednesday, Bagmati set a target of 181 runs, with Bibek Rana Magar scoring 56. Karnali was bowled out for 120 in 25.1 overs. In another match at the Narayani Cricket Ground, Lumbini defeated APF Club in a Super Over after both teams tied at 124 runs.

World Kickboxing Vice President Nasser Nassiri Arrives in Nepal

Nasser Nassiri, vice president of the World Kickboxing Federation, arrived in Kathmandu on Wednesday to lead a kickboxing development course. Organized by the National Kickboxing Association Nepal, the seminar includes nearly 200 participants, including coaches, referees, and players from all 7 provinces and three departmental teams (Police, Army, and APF). The course, which runs until Saturday, was welcomed by association founder Deepak Shrestha at the Tribhuvan International Airport. The formal inauguration is set for Thursday at the Kalimati Banquet.

Bangladesh Ends Nepal’s Journey in SAFF U-20 Semifinal

Nepal was eliminated from the SAFF U-20 Championship after losing 1-0 to Bangladesh in the semifinal held in the Maldives on Wednesday. A 10th-minute goal by MD Manik proved decisive as Nepal failed to convert multiple scoring opportunities. This marks a repeat of the previous edition where Bangladesh also knocked Nepal out in the semifinals. Bangladesh will now face the winner of the India vs. Bhutan match in the final. Despite high hopes from head coach Urjan Shrestha, Nepal has been unable to reclaim the title they last won in the first two editions of the tournament.

Sri Lanka to Offer Free Tourist Visas for 39 Nationalities

The Sri Lankan government is preparing to launch a 6-month program providing free tourist visas to passport holders from 39 countries. Cabinet Spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa announced on Wednesday that the initiative aims to revitalize the tourism sector following cabinet approval on July 21, 2025. The Department of Law has drafted the necessary regulations under the Immigration and Emigration Act, which will be presented to Parliament for final approval. This move is expected to significantly boost international arrivals and support the country’s ongoing economic recovery efforts.

Aviation Fuel Prices Skyrocket by 115 Percent in India

The price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) in India has surged by approximately 115%, reaching Rs 2.7 million per kiloliter. According to the Indian Petroleum Ministry on Wednesday, the price increased by Rs 110,000 due to rising global energy costs and regional conflicts in the Middle East. To protect domestic travelers, the government has capped the price hike for domestic airlines at 25%, or roughly Rs 15 per liter. However, international flights will face the full market price, leading to an expected rise in international airfares. Simultaneously, the price of commercial LPG has increased by Rs 195.50.

Chinese Tech Giant Midea Group Reports 14 Percent Profit Increase

Midea Group, the Chinese electrical appliance manufacturer, announced a 14% increase in its net profit for 2025, reaching 43.95 billion Yuan, or approximately USD 6.4 billion. The company’s total revenue rose by 12.1% to 458.5 billion Yuan, with international market revenue growing by 15.9%. Midea continues to lead the global market in air conditioner compressors and motors. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the company increased work efficiency by over 15 million hours and plans to invest Rs 60 billion in research and development over the next three years, including the deployment of humanoid robot models in its Chinese factories.

Houthi Rebels Claim Missile Strikes on Israel

Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on Israel on Wednesday. Military spokesperson Yahya Saree stated in a video message that the operation was conducted in coordination with Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon, targeting “key Israeli enemy positions.” This marks the third such attack by the Houthi movement since the escalation of regional conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The group declared the strikes were part of a continued military campaign against Israeli interests.