KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
HoR meeting adjourned until tomorrow amid deadlock over Home Minister’s resignation
Today’s meeting of the House of Representatives (HoR) has been adjourned until 1 pm tomorrow (Wednesday) after opposition parties and the ruling coalition failed to reach an agreement on the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak over the visit visa controversy, according to the Parliament Secretariat. Speaker Devraj Ghimire held two rounds of talks with leaders and chief whips of both the ruling and opposition parties in an attempt to resolve the impasse. However, the meeting could not proceed after opposition parties insisted that the resignation of the Home Minister was a non-negotiable demand.
KMC Police Chief Rajunath Pandey suspended for six months
Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Police Chief Rajunath Pandey has been suspended for six months by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Saroj Guragain. The suspension comes in the wake of a long-standing dispute between the city’s administrative leadership and the municipal police. On April 3, the Pandey-led city police attempted to block CAO Guragain from entering his office at Kathmandu Plaza. After failing to stop him, the police allegedly tried to use force against metropolitan employees inside the office.
Gandaki suspends ride-sharing regulation implementation following federal directive
The Gandaki Province Government has decided to temporarily suspend the implementation of the recently introduced “Gandaki Province Ride-Sharing (Regulation and Management) Guidelines, 2025” for one month. The decision follows a formal request from the federal government and takes into account the disruptions caused by the ongoing nationwide public transport shutdown.
The decision was based on an official letter sent Tuesday from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, which urged the province to halt implementation of the regulation to help ease the impact on daily life.
The Gandaki Province Government stated that the guidelines were not introduced as an emergency measure but were developed based on the rule of law, constitutional provisions, and federal consensus. The regulation was backed by several court rulings, including a directive from the Patan High Court in March 2020 stating that ride-sharing services should not be stopped, a Supreme Court order from August 2021 protecting the ‘Pe-Bike’ service, and a June 2024 decision from the Supreme Court that barred suspension of services like Pathao and instructed the government to establish a legal framework.
Govt to pay over Rs 15 billion in interest to foreign creditors in FY 2025/26
The government is set to pay Rs 15.57 billion in interest to 13 foreign creditors, including bilateral and multilateral lenders, in the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26.
According to the “Integrated Expenditure and Financial Budget Estimates” prepared by the Ministry of Finance, Rs 11.71 billion will be paid to eight multilateral creditors while Rs 3.86 billion will be paid to four bilateral lenders. This interest payment on foreign debt will place a significant burden on the federal consolidated fund.
In addition to foreign debt interest, the government will pay nearly six times more on domestic debt interest, amounting to Rs 92.96 billion.
Amendment of constitution should begin immediately: General Secretary Thapa
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has said that the government should start the work of amending the constitution immediately.
Addressing participants of the Nepali Congress, Banke Regional Conference here today, he said that it is necessary to fulfill the commitment made in the seven-point agreement reached between the ruling Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML.
Pointing out the need to establish a system where one party can get a majority, Thapa said that the electoral system that encourages coalition governments has hurt the country. He said that it is necessary to find a way for a stable government that will last for five years, for which the constitution has to be amended.
Tension erupts between transport operators and police at Jadibuti bus park
Tension flared at the Arniko bus park in Jadibuti after police intervened when transport operators attempted to stop public buses from carrying passengers during an ongoing protest shutdown.
Transport operators reportedly intercepted buses that were operating despite the shutdown, forcing passengers to disembark.
In response, police intervened and took some of the transport operators into custody, leading to a standoff between the two sides.
NDRRMA commits to effective implementation of monsoon preparedness plan
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has expressed its commitment to effectively implement the National Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan.
In a press conference held on Tuesday, the authority pledged to apply lessons learned from past experiences and carry out the plan efficiently to minimize damages this year.
Acting Executive Chief Bandhu Prasad Bastola stated that the authority will enhance disaster early warning systems and strengthen coordination and cooperation among concerned agencies in view of the upcoming monsoon season.
Bishnu Prasad appointed new chief of Kathmandu Metropolitan Police
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has appointed Deputy Superintendent of Municipal Police Bishnu Prasad Joshi as the new head of its municipal police force.
The decision follows the six-month suspension of the current municipal police chief, Rajunath Pandey, effective from Tuesday. The appointment was made by KMC’s Chief Administrative Officer Saroj Guragain.
Joshi had previously served as chief of the municipal police during the tenure of former mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya.
Mahesh Bartaula calls on opposition to allow Home Minister to address parliament
Amid growing controversy over the visit visa scandal, CPN-UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula has called on opposition parties to create an environment in Parliament where Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak can present his response. Speaking to the media after Tuesday’s scheduled joint session of both Houses of the Federal Parliament was postponed, Bartaula expressed disappointment that opposition parties had not agreed to allow Minister Lekhak to speak.
Visit visa scam is a national concern, not just a parliamentary issue: Lekhnath Dahal
CPN (Maoist Centre) lawmaker Lekhnath Dahal has said the growing controversy over human trafficking under the guise of visit visas has moved beyond Parliament and become a national public concern. Speaking to journalists at the Parliament building in New Baneshwor on Tuesday, Dahal remarked that the issue now resonates with the general public, not just lawmakers. “Human trafficking through visit visas and the Department of Immigration has become a matter of national discourse. It’s no longer confined to Parliament — it’s a national issue that demands serious attention,” he said.
Govt working to reduce risks in Himalayan expeditions: PM Oli
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the government is actively working to make mountaineering in Nepal safer and more accessible. Speaking at a ceremony in Narchyang, Annapurna Rural Municipality–4, on the occasion of the diamond jubilee of the Annapurna Mountain ascent, PM Oli highlighted the government’s efforts in reducing the risks of Himalayan expeditions. “The number of climbers summiting Everest has increased due to the government’s preparation of skilled personnel and the development of necessary infrastructure along the climbing routes,” he said.
Parliamentary committee directs govt to prepare for monsoon infrastructure risks
The Infrastructure Development Committee under the House of Representatives has directed the government to prepare for potential damage to infrastructure caused by floods and landslides during this year’s monsoon. During a meeting held Tuesday at Singha Durbar, the committee warned that heavy rainfall this year could result in significant loss of life and property in certain areas. It called on the government to take precautionary measures to minimize the impact on roads, bridges, and other key infrastructure.
RSP to hold policy convention in June
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has decided to hold a policy convention to mark the party’s establishment day on June 22. The decision was made during a secretariat meeting held on Monday, according to acting spokesperson Manish Jha. Joint General Secretary Bipin Kumar Acharya has been appointed coordinator for the convention. Provincial, district, and local chapters of the party will also organize programs to celebrate the occasion.
Gold prices up by Rs 2,900 per tola
The price of gold increased by Rs 2,900 per tola on Tuesday. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold has reached Rs 192,700 per tola, up from Rs 189,800 the previous day. Silver price also increased by Rs 55 per tola, reaching Rs 2,045 , compared to Rs 1,990 on Monday.
Kanti Lokpath to remain closed for four days
The Kanti Lokpath will be closed for four days starting Wednesday due to the construction of a bailey bridge over the Bagmati River at Baguwa, located on the border of Bhimphedi Rural Municipality in Makwanpur and Lalitpur district. The Makwanpur District Administration Office issued a public notice on Monday, informing that the road will remain closed from June 4 to June 7. Authorities have requested all travelers and transport operators to use alternative routes during this period.
Govt and transport entrepreneurs reach 6-point agreement
Discussions between the government and transport entrepreneurs, held until late Monday night, have been positive and focused on resolving ongoing issues. The talks concluded with the preparation of a draft six-point agreement. Transport entrepreneurs had launched a protest against the Gandaki Province government, objecting to proposed regulations that would allow private vehicles to operate on a rental basis.
Forest Minister calls for innovation and responsibility in community forest management
Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri has stated that sustainable community forest management is possible only through shared vision, commitment, and responsibility. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 9th Council of the Community Forest Users’ Federation Nepal, Minister Shahi highlighted that collective determination, community dedication, and active local leadership have made community forest management effective.
Wild elephant electrocuted in Jhapa forest
A wild elephant died from electrocution last night in the Ratuwamai forest of Kamal Rural Municipality-3, Jhapa. According to Jivan Pathak, a forest officer at the Division Forest Office, the elephant is believed to have pushed over an electricity pole, causing a live wire to snap and electrocute the animal. The elephant died on the spot, and its tusk was also burned in the incident.
NEPSE drops by 35.73 points
he Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) Index fell by 35.73 points on Tuesday, reflecting a broad market downturn. Along with the index decline, the daily trading turnover also saw a significant drop. According to NEPSE, shares worth approximately Rs 6.67 billion were traded today. A total of 15.5 million units of shares were exchanged across 315 listed companies. Of the traded companies, only 34 recorded price gains, while a significant 214 companies witnessed declines. No company’s stock price remained unchanged by the market close.
97-year-old Bhatta receives citizenship at home
Senior citizens and people with disabilities in Byas Rural Municipality who are unable to travel to the district headquarters, Khalanga, have been issued citizenship certificates at their doorsteps. A team led by Assistant Chief District Officer Mohan Singh Dhami visited the homes of elderly and disabled individuals to distribute citizenship certificates and national identity cards. Among the recipients was 97-year-old Lalu Devi Bhatta of Byas-6, who expressed her joy, saying, “I am happy to receive my citizenship at home.”
Vigilance increased at Birgunj checkpoint after Covid cases detected in border area
Following a rise in Covid infections in neighboring India, heightened vigilance has been implemented at the Birgunj border market. Health screening has begun for passengers entering Birgunj from India via land and rail routes. A meeting of the Parsa District Health Crisis Management Committee has decided to strengthen health screening at the border checkpoint, considering the potential risk of Covid spread.
‘Panchebaja’ training launched to preserve culture
Myagde Rural Municipality in Tanahu has initiated ‘Panchebaja’ (traditional music) training with the dual objective of preserving cultural heritage and fostering self-employment through skill development. The training aims to equip individuals with musical skills while promoting the traditional art of ‘Panchebaja’, a cultural symbol in Nepali society. The rural municipality has targeted unemployed men and women lacking vocational skills, providing them with training to become self-reliant and to contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural traditions.
Simkot begins issuing citizenship recommendations online
Simkot Rural Municipality, located at the district headquarters, Humla, has started providing citizenship recommendations through an online system from Monday. Aiming to make the citizenship certificate process more systematic and technology-driven, the service was launched in Ward-4, Buraunse. On the first day, one woman and two men received recommendations online, said the rural municipality’s information officer, Tshiring Yungdung Lama.
Karate champion Arika Gurung receives hero’s welcome after historic bronze medal
Nepali karate player Arika Gurung was given a grand welcome in Kathmandu on Tuesday after making history by winning a bronze medal at the prestigious Karate 1 Premier League. Gurung, who returned from Rabat, Morocco, where the league was held, was welcomed at Tribhuvan International Airport by National Sports Council Member Secretary Tankalal Ghising, Nepal Karate Federation President Yuvraj Lama, fellow athletes, supporters, friends, and well-wishers.
Forest Minister calls for innovation and responsibility in community forest management
Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri has stated that sustainable community forest management is possible only through shared vision, commitment, and responsibility. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 9th Council of the Community Forest Users’ Federation Nepal, Minister Shahi highlighted that collective determination, community dedication, and active local leadership have made community forest management effective.
Locals lock health center in Kalikot over staff absence and poor service
Residents of Tadi Basic Health Center in Khadachakra Municipality-3, the headquarters of Kalikot district, have locked the facility, which has been without staff for nearly two weeks. On Monday, patients suffering from cough and headaches went to collect medicine but were instead given an iron grinder by the office assistant, prompting locals to lock the center in protest. They complain that their lives are being treated carelessly.
Uruguayan envoy meets Energy Minister to explore energy, irrigation cooperation
Uruguay’s non-resident ambassador to Nepal, Alberto A. Guani, paid a courtesy call on Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka, on Tuesday at the ministry in Singha Durbar. During the meeting, the two sides discussed potential cooperation in the fields of energy and irrigation. Minister Khadka shared Nepal’s ambitious plan to generate 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035, emphasizing the need for support from international development partners to achieve the goal.
Comment