KATHMANDU: Despite the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas for the exchange of prisoners and hostages, Bipin Joshi, a Nepali national, has not been included in the 41 individuals released by Hamas. The releases occurred over two days, with 24 on Friday and 17 on Saturday.

Joshi, who was held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in October 7, remains unaccounted for, and his current whereabouts are unknown. Despite diplomatic efforts by the Nepali government, he was not part of the released prisoners.

During the recent visit of Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, to Nepal, the government sought assistance in the rescue efforts for Joshi. Nepal has also been in communication with the Israeli government, urging their cooperation in securing Joshi’s release.

Bipin Joshi, hailing from Kanchanpur, Nepal, continues to be in captivity, adding to the ongoing concerns for his well-being and safe return.