KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.

Local Residents Urge PM Oli to Preserve Historic Sundhara: A delegation of local residents, including Ward 22 Chair Chinikaji Maharjan and UML Kathmandu District Secretary Rajesh Shakya, met Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at Baluwatar to request a plan for proper preservation of the historic Sundhara water spout and the old Dharahara remains, while maintaining the natural flow of water in the area. The delegation also expressed gratitude for the government’s special initiative to develop Sundhara into an open garden, establish a currency and earthquake museum, and construct the country’s largest underground parking facility along with a new Dharahara tower.

House of Representatives Meeting Postponed Without Being Convened: The House of Representatives meeting scheduled for 1 PM on Friday has been postponed without convening. According to the secretariat of Speaker Devraj Ghimire, the next session will now take place on Sunday at 1 PM. The parliamentary impasse continues as opposition parties maintain their obstruction, demanding the resignation of the Home Minister over the visit visa controversy. Despite Speaker Ghimire’s ongoing consultations with opposition leaders, no consensus has been reached to resume proceedings.

Deuba, Dahal Hold Phone Talks Following Graft Case Against Madhav Nepal: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal held a phone conversation after the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) filed a corruption case against CPN (Unified Socialist) Chair Madhav Kumar Nepal. The phone call took place on Thursday. Dahal informed reporters at the Parliament building that Deuba had inquired about the developments regarding the case against Nepal. Dahal expressed surprise at Deuba’s call and mentioned that the conversation also included moments of light humor.

Prachanda Senses Political Vendetta in Graft Case Against Madhav Nepal: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has suggested that the corruption case filed against CPN (Unified Socialist) Chair Madhav Kumar Nepal by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) carries a scent of political retaliation from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Speaking to reporters at the Parliament building in New Baneshwor on Friday, Dahal said the move reflects a trace of political revenge and raises serious questions about the CIAA’s intentions. He also recalled that the CIAA had previously clarified that policy-level decisions fall outside its jurisdiction, referring to a letter it had issued during the Lalita Niwas land scandal.

No Comment on Madhav Nepal Case, Says Gagan Thapa: Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has said he will not comment on the corruption case filed against former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, as it is now a matter before the court. Speaking to journalists today at Biratnagar Airport, Thapa stressed that the case must be resolved respectfully through judicial proceedings. Thapa emphasized the need to conclude the active membership renewal process of the Nepali Congress ahead of its upcoming General Convention. He called on all party leaders to ensure that membership updates and decisions are finalized within their respective constituencies.

Speaker Ghimire Criticizes Opposition for Prolonged Parliament Disruption: Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire today expressed deep dissatisfaction with the prolonged obstruction of parliamentary proceedings by opposition parties, who have been demanding the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak in connection with the visit visa scam at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Addressing a gathering of the Diploma Engineer’s Association, Speaker Ghimire lamented that crucial legislation, including the School Education Bill and the Federal Civil Service Bill, have been held up for an extended period due to the ongoing political deadlock.

State Affairs Committee Concludes Discussions with Lawmakers on Citizenship Bill: The State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of Nepal’s federal parliament has completed deliberations with lawmakers who proposed amendments to the Nepal Citizenship (Second Amendment) Bill, 2081. According to Committee Chairperson Ramhari Khatiwada, a total of 85 amendments were registered by 46 lawmakers for discussion. In today’s meeting, Chairperson Khatiwada stated that the committee will now move forward with consultations involving the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), including both current and former presidents, as well as representatives of organizations related to former Gurkha soldiers.

NC-led Government in Madhes Province Soon, Says NC President Deuba: President of the Nepali Congress and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said a government led by the Nepali Congress (NC) would be formed in Madhes Province soon. Talking to media persons at NC Madhes Province Office, Janakpurdham, today, he asserted that the NC-led government would be formed in the province as per the agreement of rotational system. He mentioned that discussion would be held with power alliance partner soon on the issue. “There was an agreement between the CPN (UML) and NC to lead the government as per rotational system. So, discussion will be held on this matter soon. The NC will lead the government in the province”, argued the NC President.

All Govt Employees to be Enrolled in Health Insurance Scheme: Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has initiated internal preparations to bring all employees under the coverage of the national health insurance scheme. Both the government’s newly announced policies and budget, based on the proposal of the Ministry of Health and Population, include a provision to enroll civil servants and employees in the organized sector in health insurance. To implement the provisions included in the Policy and Programme and the Budget—aligned with the Health Insurance Act, 2074 (2017)—Minister Paudel has decided to begin coordination with all ministries, commissions, bodies, and subordinate departments of the Government of Nepal.

Youths Stage Rally Demanding Dissolution of Tarun Dal Ad-Hoc Committee: Youth affiliated with Nepal Tarun Dal, the youth wing of the ruling Nepali Congress, staged a motorcycle rally in Kathmandu demanding the dissolution of its central ad-hoc committee. They accused the leadership of deliberately delaying the general convention and urged that the ad-hoc committee’s term not be extended. The rally passed through various city locations before reaching the Nepali Congress party office. Central committee member Rojan Rai said the party’s failure to hold a convention since the last one in Pokhara in 2073 BS (2016) has weakened the organization, criticizing prolonged ad-hocism.

Local Govt Deputy Heads’ National Conference Convenes in Biratnagar: The national conference of local-level deputy mayors and vice-chairpersons began today in Biratnagar. The event was inaugurated by former President Bidya Devi Bhandari. The conference aims to address common issues faced by local governments, including disputes and misunderstandings between deputy chiefs and chiefs, as well as challenges related to budget preparation and administrative clarity. Extensive discussions are planned to clarify responsibilities defined by the constitution and laws. In her opening remarks, former President Bhandari reflected on her participation in previous similar national and provincial-level conferences for women representatives.

Man Kills Father and Neighbor in Nawalparasi: Two people were killed in Nawalparasi on Friday. The incident took place in Sunwal Municipality-2, Aurahiya, where a man killed his father and a neighbor. According to DSP Bir Dutta Panta, spokesperson for the District Police Office, 35-year-old Khemraj Tharu fatally attacked his 50-year-old father Dayaram Tharu and 70-year-old neighbor Nathu Dharikar with a spade, striking them on the head. Both victims died on the spot. Khemraj was arrested from his house shortly after the incident. Police have launched a preliminary investigation to determine the motive behind the killings.

NEPSE Index Fall Continues This Week: The NEPSE index, which measures stock market performance, dropped by 5.99 points on Thursday — a 0.22% decrease — closing at 2,640.96 points. After a 1.60-point gain on Monday, NEPSE fell by 35.73 points on Tuesday and 11.97 points on Wednesday. The decline continued on Thursday, the last trading day of the week. On Thursday, share prices of 94 companies increased, 153 declined, and one remained unchanged. NEPSE reported transactions worth Rs 7.97 billion from 77,670 trades.

Finance Ministry Begins Preparations for Budget Execution: The Ministry of Finance has begun internal preparations for implementing the budget for FY 2082/83 (2025/26). A meeting was held at the ministry to align policies, programs, budgets, and milestones into a coordinated action plan. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel instructed officials to initiate procurement processes for programs included in the budget statement to ensure faster implementation once the budget is approved.

Report on New Stock Exchange License to Be Public: A report prepared by a study committee led by Chintamani Shiwakoti, a board member of Nepal Rastra Bank, regarding licensing of a new stock exchange will be made public. The board meeting of the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) on Thursday decided to release the report. The Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government had formed the three-member committee in Magh 2080 (January 2024). The committee submitted its report in Baisakh 2081 (April, 2024), recommending the restructuring of NEPSE and licensing of a new exchange. The report is now set to be published.

Nepal Rastra Bank Working on Digital Currency: With growing internet penetration and digital adoption, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) is working toward digitizing currency by introducing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). This move aims to reduce costs associated with printing and distributing physical currency. NRB had released a preliminary study report on CBDC on Ashoj 13, 2079 (September 29, 2022), and is currently working on internal preparations for its implementation.

Film ‘Jante Baakhro’ Released Today: New Nepali film Jante Baakhro has been released across Nepal on Friday. ‘Jante Bakhro’ has officially hit theaters, though it faces stiff competition from earlier releases like ‘Narsingha Avatar’ and ‘Unko Sweater’, which are still dominating many cinema screens. ‘Jante Bakhro’, featuring Saugat Malla, Ashif Shah, Garima Sharma, Rama Thapaliya, Lokendra Lekhak, Kamal Devkota, and others, explores the fading rural traditions of Nepali wedding culture. The film humorously portrays the disappearing practices of village wedding processions, traditional feasts in leaf plates, and other cultural customs.

Sequel to Hit Film ‘Pitambar’ Announced on Its 51st Day: The sequel to the successful Nepali film ‘Pitambar’ has been officially announced. The production unit celebrated the film’s 51st day in theaters on Thursday and used the occasion to declare the making of ‘Pitambar 2’. The original was a collaboration between KP Films and Purushottam Pradhan Films. Starring Pradeep Khadka, the film marked its 51st day at Ranjana Cineplex and Big Movies, where cast and crew members were honored. Released on Chaitra 29 (April 11, 2025), the film has earned Rs 45.6 million at the official government box office.

Hollywood Film ‘Tenzing’ Completes Shooting in Nepal: The Hollywood biopic ‘Tenzing’, based on the life of the Norwegian climber who summited Everest alongside Edmund Hillary, has completed its shooting in Nepal. Filming took place in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bandipur, Mustang, and Khumjung. Directed by Jennifer Peedom, the film features Golden Globe winner Tom Hiddleston in the role of Edmund Hillary. Nepali actress Thinley Lhamo will be seen portraying the role of Tenzing Norgay’s wife, opposite Tibetan-Chinese actor Genden Phuntsok, who plays Norgay. Thinley Lhamo is known for her performances in Nepali films such as Shambala, Naka, and Hari.

Lumbini Province Tops Table with Second Win in TB Sah Memorial U-16 Cricket Tournament: Lumbini Province climbed to the top of the table in the TB Sah Memorial U-16 Cricket Tournament after securing their second win on Friday. In their third match, Lumbini defeated Karnali Province by 8 wickets. Chasing a modest target of 93 runs, Lumbini reached the goal in 14.5 overs with just 2 wickets down. Arif Khan played a key role in the win, remaining unbeaten on 36 runs off 19 balls, hitting seven fours. Opener Keshav Bista also remained not out, scoring 28 runs off 45 balls with four boundaries. Fellow opener Samir Ali Musalman contributed 27 runs off 19 balls, smashing three fours and two sixes before being dismissed.

Sadbhav Acharya Wins 11th Nepal Amateur Open Golf Championship with Record Score: Amateur golfer Sadbhav Acharya clinched the title of the 11th Nepal Amateur Open Golf Championship with a record-breaking performance. The country’s top-ranked amateur golfer secured his maiden championship victory by defeating Rahul Bishwakarma by a wide margin of 10 strokes. Competing at the Gokarna Golf Club, Acharya shot a 2-under 70 on Thursday, finishing the tournament with an impressive 20-under 196 overall. He also shattered the previous 54-hole record of 18-under. Acharya earned double gold in the event, winning the individual title and securing team gold alongside Rahul. Notably, he set a course record at Gokarna by carding a stunning 12-under 60 on the second day.

Nepal Wushu Federation Accuses Rival Group of Jeopardizing Players’ Careers: The nationally recognized Nepal Wushu Federation (NWF), led by Shailesh Karmaacharya, has accused a rival group of violating Nepal’s legal system and jeopardizing the future of athletes under the guise of international recognition. In a press conference, the Karmaacharya-led federation criticized the faction headed by Bir Bahadur Tamang, which has been declared illegal by both the court and Nepal’s sport’s governing body, the National Sports Council (NSC). According to the NWF, this rival group has continued to operate in defiance of national laws. The federation alleged that due to the negligence of the Tamang-led group, the participation of Nepali athletes in the upcoming Asian Cup Wushu Championship has become uncertain.

Trump and Musk Clash Explodes on Social Media: President Donald Trump on Thursday escalated his public feud with Elon Musk, threatening to cut the billionaire’s government contracts. Trump suggested he would use the power of the U.S. government to financially hurt Musk’s companies, including SpaceX and Starlink. The bitter fallout came shortly after a White House meeting where Trump first raised the issue with Germany’s new leader. This breakup follows their recent joint appearance at the White House, where Trump had publicly thanked Musk for his short, turbulent stint working with the government.

At Least Four Killed in Russian Attacks on Ukraine’s Kyiv: At least four people were killed and 20 were wounded in multiple Russian missile and drone attacks overnight on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, local officials have said. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Friday morning search and rescue operations were continuing in several locations. Among the wounded, 16 were admitted to hospital. Ukrainian authorities said Russian forces launched 407 drones and 45 missiles, including cruise and ballistic missiles, of which they succeeded in destroying, respectively, around 200 and 30

N Korea Launches Warship After Earlier Failed Attempt: North Korea has launched a warship two weeks after it was damaged during an earlier launch attempt, in an incident that drew harsh criticism from the country’s leader Kim Jong Un. The 5,000-tonne destroyer, which was restored to balance earlier this week, was launched on Thursday and is now moored at a pier, state-run news agency KCNA said. The ship is expected to be fully restored before a ruling party meeting sometime this month, KCNA added. Kim, who witnessed the warship tipping over during the first launch attempt, criticized the incident as a “criminal act” that “severely damaged the [country’s] dignity and pride”.