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.

UML Calls First Meeting of Newly Elected Central Committee

The CPN (UML) has called the first meeting of the newly elected Central Committee. Newly elected secretary Dr Rajan Bhattarai informed that the meeting was scheduled for Friday afternoon at 1:00 pm. According to him, the meeting will be held at Karki Banquet in Babarmahal, Kathmandu. The 11th National Congress of the UML concluded on Thursday elected 301 new Central Committee members under the leadership of Chairman KP Sharma Oli.

High Court Tulasipur Orders to Release Chair Lamichhane on Bail

The Butwal bench of High Court, Tulasipur has ordered the release of Chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Rabi Lamichhane on bail.  The order was issued on Thursday to release former Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Lamichhane, who is in judicial custody for the investigation over the misappropriation of the fund in the Butwal-based Supreme Cooperatives. A division bench of judges Basudev Acharya and Tej Narayan Poudel issued the order, directing Lamichhane’s release upon deposit of bail equal to the alleged loss worth Rs 27.48 million, said Information Officer at the Court, Ram Bahadur Kunwar.

Madhesh Penalizes 72 Employees Following Surprise Inspection

A surprise inspection led by the Office of the Chief Minister in Madhesh Province has resulted in action against 72 employees. The monitoring, conducted on Tuesday and Wednesday, targeted 9 ministries and 18 government offices in Janakpurdham. Among those penalized are 2 under-secretaries and 41 section officers. Findings revealed that 34 staff members were absent without prior approval, while 38 failed to wear the mandatory official uniform. The campaign would extend to seven other districts to improve public service delivery and curb negligence within the provincial administration.

KP Sharma Oli Wins with 1,663 Votes

The Election Commission reports that KP Sharma Oli has won the leadership of CPN (UML) with a total of 1,663 votes. His competitor, Ishwar Pokharel, received 564 votes during the internal election. Although the formal announcement is yet to be made, the latest results confirm a decisive victory for KP Sharma Oli. This leadership transition marks a significant moment for the party as it prepares for future political challenges. The voting process was part of the general convention held to select the party’s new central leadership committee during the national assembly.

Shankar Pokhrel Becomes General Secretary with 1,228 Votes

Shankar Pokhrel has emerged victorious as the General Secretary of CPN (UML) following the recent internal party elections. According to the voting results, Shankar Pokhrel secured 1,228 votes, defeating his rival Surendra Pandey, who obtained 999 votes. While the formal official declaration is still pending, the tally confirms the win in the crucial leadership race. This election was a key component of the party’s general convention aimed at renewing its leadership structure. Both candidates mobilized significant support within the party delegates, but Shankar Pokhrel ultimately maintained a clear lead to secure the executive position.

Election Commission Releases Education Sourcebook for 2082

The Election Commission has published the ‘Civic Education Promotion Resource Booklet for Election Programs, 2025′ on its official website to promote civic awareness. Designed primarily for social studies teachers, the handbook contains 7 chapters covering democracy, the Constitution, and various electoral systems. It provides detailed information on the voting cycle, the “No Vote” provision, and the role of political parties. The material also outlines the code of conduct and the specific responsibilities of citizens and teachers during the electoral process. This initiative aims to strengthen the infrastructure for free and fair elections through expanded public information and educational outreach.

Voting Centers Finalized for National Assembly Election

The Election Commission has designated voting centers in the capital cities of all seven provinces for the upcoming National Assembly Election, 2025. Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai announced that the decision was finalized on Wednesday. The polling will take place on Wednesday at venues including the Province Election Office in Biratnagar, the Mahendra Narayan Nidhi Mithila Culture Center in Janakpur, and the Bhutan Devi Secondary School in Hetauda. Other centers are located in Pokhara, Ghorahi, Birendranagar, and Dhangadhi. The electoral college consists of provincial assembly members and local government heads who will cast their votes at these specific locations.

National Democratic Disabled Association Demands 2.2 Percent Cluster for Disabled

The National Democratic Disabled Association has demanded a separate electoral cluster for persons with disabilities in the House of Representatives. Chairperson Madhav Prasad Chamlagai stated that failing to ensure inclusive representation violates constitutional rights. According to the 2022 national census, the disabled population stands at 2.2 percent, yet they remain excluded from direct representation. The association warns that if the government does not establish a specific 2.2 percent quota and cluster, they will launch a nationwide protest. They argue that names within other inclusive groups do not adequately secure the political rights of the disabled community.

KMC Bans Forcible Haircuts for Students in 2002 Regulation

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City Education Department has issued a strict directive to all community and institutional schools to stop shaving students’ hair as a form of punishment. The circular warns that cutting a student’s hair against their will constitutes mental and physical torture. While Education Regulation 2002 allows school management committees to enforce a code of conduct, it explicitly prohibits any behavior that inflicts psychological trauma. The city took this step after receiving numerous complaints from parents about students being humiliated by teachers. Schools are now urged to maintain discipline through methods that do not violate the fundamental rights or dignity of children.

Banke Detects 993 Duplicate Names in Voter Records

The District Election Office in Banke has identified 993 duplicate entries in the integrated voter list with photographs. The highest number of duplicates was found in Nepalgunj, while Kohalpur recorded the lowest. According to the District Election Office, the update process to remove these redundant names will continue until Saturday. Furthermore, the number of polling centers in the district is expected to rise by 23, bringing the total to 404 centers. A final decision on the new centers and site relocations in areas like Rapti Sonari will be confirmed after December 27.

New Rules Ban Minors Under 18 From Hotels Without Consent

Authorities in Rajbiraj have announced that children under 18 years of age will no longer be allowed to stay in hotels, lodges, or guest houses without explicit parental permission. During a meeting chaired by DSP Dambar Bahadur Puri, hotel operators agreed to strictly follow the Hotel Association Nepal code of conduct. Establishments must now record the identity documents and mobile numbers of all guests in a mandatory register. Additionally, hotels are required to install CCTV at reception and main gates. To maintain local peace, the use of loud music for events is strictly prohibited after 10 PM.

CIB Submits Case Over Rs 6.34 Billion Nepal Trust Land Irregularity

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has submitted its report regarding financial irregularities in leasing Nepal Trust land at Durbarmarg. The bureau recommended filing charges against former Secretary Arjun Bahadur Karki, Lekh Bahadur Karki, and Lhakpa Sonam Sherpa of Thamserku Trekking. The investigation claims a loss of Rs 6.341 billion to the state due to a collusive contract signed on May 28, 2017. The report seeks five years of imprisonment for the accused, citing criminal breach of trust and fraud in leasing the valuable property at significantly undervalued rates for a 33-year term.

APF Personnel Selected for UN Mission with 12 Medals

Five security personnel from the Armed Police Force Nepal have been selected for UN missions due to their outstanding rescue and sports achievements. Assistant Inspector Dipendra Bista successfully rescued 10 people and 2 tourists across 19 operations. Assistant Constable Bharat Kafle rescued 5 individuals from a massive fire using rope techniques. Assistant Constable Mekh Bahadur Gurung recovered 22 bodies during disaster missions, while Kiran Bahadur Bhandari was named “Soldier of the Year 2024.” Additionally, Puran Rai earned a spot after winning 8 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal, totaling 12 medals in international boxing competitions.

Police Seize 33 Illegal Arms to Secure Upcoming Elections

Salyan Police have seized 33 unregistered muskets from various locations across the district based on special intelligence. The weapons were recovered from Bangad Kupinde Municipality and Triveni Rural Municipality, where they had been hidden in homes, fields, and forests for a long time. One individual has been arrested and faces legal action. Authorities suspect these firearms were intended for illegal wildlife poaching. This search operation has been intensified to ensure the upcoming elections remain peaceful, safe, and impartial throughout the region.

Health Camp Distributes Rs 500,000 Worth of Free Medicine

A free heart health camp in Sotang Rural Municipality, Solukhumbu, provided screenings for 2,456 people. Organized by the Nepal Heart Foundation and Rotary Club of Patan, the camp benefited students from 15 schools across several wards. Senior cardiologist Dr. Prakash Raj Regmi reported high instances of hypertension and respiratory issues among patients. During the event held on Monday and Tuesday, Lomas Pharmaceuticals distributed free medicines valued at Rs 500,000. Local residents expressed gratitude for receiving specialist medical consultations and diagnostic services like ECG and echoes within their remote community.

‘Jhari Pachhi Ko Indreni’ Movie Opens Advanced Booking with 59 Shows

The film Jhari Pachhi Ko Indreni is set for release this Friday, after receiving a Universal Certificate from the Censor Board. Directed by Arjun Ghimire, the movie marks the return of actor Ganesh Upreti. Advanced booking has opened with QFX providing 22 shows, while INI offers 6 shows, and both Big Movies and F-Cube provide 2 shows each. In total, the film has secured 59 shows across the country. The story, written by Arjun Ghimire, features a cast including Deepa Shree Niraula and Ramesh Upreti, promising a meaningful social drama experience.

4 Conflict-Related Films Reach Oscar Shortlists for 2026

Four films centered on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have made the Oscar shortlists this year. The Palestinian entry Palestine 36 and Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab are both contenders for Best International Feature Film. Meanwhile, two Israeli productions, Holding Liat and Coexistence, My Ass!, have advanced in the Best Documentary category. However, the Israeli drama The Sea failed to make the cut. These selections come amid high international interest in stories from the region. The 98th Academy Awards will feature these diverse narratives as they compete for the final five nomination spots in their respective categories.

India’s ‘Homebound’ Shortlisted for 12 Categories at 98th Oscars

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has included the Indian film Homebound in its shortlists for the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, the film is a top contender in the Best International Feature Film category. The Academy announced shortlists across 12 categories, noting that official nominations will be revealed later. Voting for the final nominees will be conducted through a secret online ballot. Homebound joins other global cinematic works as the industry prepares for the prestigious ceremony, where 24 total categories will eventually be awarded to winners.

Stolen Bruce Lee Statue Restored, 10-Month Sentence for Thief

The iconic bronze statue of Bruce Lee has been restored in a Bosnian park more than a year after it was stolen. Originally unveiled to the public, the life-sized statue shows the martial arts star in a defensive posture with nunchucks. It was stolen and later found cut into pieces intended for scrap metal. The thief was recently sentenced to 10 months in prison for the crime. Local officials highlighted the statue’s importance as a symbol of justice and peace, serving as a unifying figure for different ethnic groups in the historically divided city of Mostar following its recovery.

Unity Taekwondo Dojang Wins 2nd Mayor Cup Hapkido Championship

Unity Taekwondo Dojang has won the title of the 2nd Mayor Cup Hapkido Championship held in Nepalgunj on Tuesday and Wednesday. Gogli Taekwondo Dojang and Nepalgunj Taekwondo Dojang secured the second and third positions, respectively. Individual honors were awarded to Hemant Gharti Magar as best male player and Chandrakala Khadka as best female player. The event, organized by the Banke District Hapkido Association, saw participation from various teams, with Tulsipur Dojang being named the most disciplined team. Winners received cash prizes, medals, and certificates from local officials and the Nepal Hapkido Association leadership during the closing ceremony.

Local Unit to Host 7th President Running Cup

Gulmidarbar Rural Municipality is set to organize the 7th President Running Cup competition from December 22 to December 24. The event will take place at Runkhadah Secondary School for students under the age of 18. According to Chief Administrative Officer Yuvraj Paudel, participants must submit their documents to the education branch by Friday. The competition will feature volleyball, kabaddi, and various athletics events, including high jump and javelin throw. Demonstrations of karate and taekwondo are also planned. The games aim to identify young sporting talent while adhering to the national guidelines for school-level sports competitions.

Fog Cancels 4th T20 as India Leads Series 2-1

The fourth T20 international cricket match between India and South Africa in Lucknow was cancelled without a ball being bowled due to dense fog. Umpires inspected the field 6 times before deciding that playing conditions were unsafe for the players. India currently leads the five-match series 2-1. The final and deciding match is scheduled to take place this Friday in Ahmedabad. While the visiting South African team has a chance to level the series, the Indian squad looks to secure a 3-1 series victory in the upcoming concluding game to finalize their dominant performance.

French Footballer Mbappe Reaches 58 Goals in 2025, Chasing Ronaldo’s Record

French star Kylian Mbappe has moved within one goal of equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s historic record after scoring twice for Real Madrid in the Copa Del Rey. The 26-year-old forward has now reached 58 goals in the calendar year 2025. He needs just one more to match Ronaldo’s 2013 tally of 59 goals. During the match against third-division side Talavera, Mbappe secured the win and ensured his team’s progression to the round of 16. With an upcoming La Liga fixture against Sevilla, the French star has a golden opportunity to surpass the legendary record and set a new personal milestone.

Google Initiative Challenges Nvidia’s Dominance in AI Market

Google is developing a new project called TorchTPU to make its artificial intelligence chips compatible with PyTorch, the world’s most popular AI software framework. This strategic move by Alphabet aims to weaken Nvidia’s long-standing dominance in the AI computing market. Google is collaborating with Meta, the creator of PyTorch, to ensure its Tensor Processing Units are more accessible to developers. By removing software bottlenecks, Google hopes to increase TPU sales and provide a viable alternative to Nvidia’s GPUs. This initiative is crucial for Google’s cloud revenue as it seeks to capitalize on the massive global demand for AI infrastructure.

Australian PM Vows Action on Hate Speech After 15 Deaths

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a crackdown on hate speech following a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. The attack targeted a Jewish festival on the first day of Hanukkah. New laws will target individuals who spread radicalization and division, giving authorities more power to cancel visas for those spreading hate. A new federal offense for “aggravated hate speech” will be introduced, and penalties will be increased for leaders who promote violence. Albanese stated that every citizen has the right to feel safe and that the government is committed to uniting the nation against such acts of hatred.

Jake and Romy Reiner Issue Statement Following Parents’ Homicide

The children of late Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, have issued their first statement following the couple’s death and the arrest of their brother, Nick. The couple was found dead on Sunday in their Los Angeles home due to multiple sharp force injuries. Nick Reiner, 32, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Jake and Romy Reiner described the loss as unimaginable pain and asked for privacy to remember their parents’ incredible lives. Rob Reiner was famous for directing iconic films like A Few Good Men, while Michele was a noted photographer and producer.

Trump Announces USD 1,776 Warrior Dividend for Military

US President Donald Trump has announced a USD 1,776 “warrior dividend” for 1.45 million servicemembers. The total payout, amounting to USD 1,776, is funded partly through his aggressive trade tariffs and a major bill signed recently. In a televised address, Trump stated that the payments are already on their way to honor the nation’s founding. While the president touted his economic success, recent polls show many Americans remain concerned about the high cost of housing and groceries. The administration maintains that these dividends reflect a commitment to the military despite ongoing domestic inflation challenges and low approval ratings.

FIFA World Cup Prize Money Raised to USD 727 Million

FIFA has announced a 50% increase in prize money for the next World Cup, totaling USD 727 million. Under this new structure, the champions will receive USD 50 million, while the runners-up will be awarded USD 33 million. Even teams failing to progress past the group stage are guaranteed USD 9 million. Additionally, each qualifying team will receive USD 1.5 million for preparation costs. President Gianni Infantino confirmed these payments during the council meeting. This decision follows a summit held on October 27, where the governing body also discussed establishing a support mechanism for regions experiencing conflict.