KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Judges’ Society condemns Dinesh Tripathi’s public criticism of the judiciary
The Judges’ Society of Nepal has expressed serious concerns over statements made by senior advocate Dinesh Tripathi, claiming they spread distrust in the judiciary, and also condemned the recent assault on him outside the Kathmandu District Court.
Tripathi was attacked on January 2 by alleged supporters of the Rastriya Swatantra Party as he left the court after a closed-door hearing on a fraud and organized crime case. While condemning the physical attack, the Judges’ Society criticized Tripathi for his subsequent comments in media interviews, which they say undermine the judiciary’s integrity.
In a statement issued by its General Secretary, Tek Narayan Kunwar, the association denounced the physical attack on Tripathi, asserting that such actions are unacceptable.
Wildfire in Mahabharat Community Forest remains uncontrolled; army deployed
The fire that began in the Mahabharat Community Forest community forest in the southern part of Kavrepalanchowk district on Tuesday afternoon remains uncontrolled, posing a significant threat to nearby forest areas and settlements.
The District Disaster Management Committee has decided to mobilize all available resources, including local agencies, security forces, and stakeholders, to combat the fire.
A public notice has been issued by Khanikhola Rural Municipality restricting domestic and foreign tourists from visiting the Narayansthan Temple and surrounding areas in Bechanchowk due to the fire risk.
ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup: Nepal secures consolation win over Malaysia
Nepal registered a consolation victory in the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, defeating Malaysia by 7 wickets in their play-off match.
Malaysia, who batted first after winning the toss, set a modest target of 46 runs. They were bowled out for 45 runs in 16.5 overs, with Nuriman Hidayah top-scoring with 15 runs. Nepal chased down the target comfortably, reaching 46/3 in just 11 overs. Captain Puja Mahato played an unbeaten knock of 23 runs, while Simana KC remained not out on 4 runs.
Japan’s new ambassador vows to strengthen ties with Nepal
Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador to Nepal, Maeda Toru, has pledged to further strengthen the long-standing relations between the two countries during his tenure.
Presenting his credentials to President Ram Chandra Poudel on Thursday, Ambassador Toru emphasized his commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. During their meeting, the two discussed the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nepal and Japan, according to a statement from the Japanese Embassy in Nepal.
174 out of 292 vehicles fail pollution test
In a recent pollution test conducted by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), 174 out of 292 vehicles failed to meet the required pollution standards. This alarming figure accounts for 60% of the total vehicles tested.
Of the vehicles tested, 14 out of 71 petrol-powered vehicles and 160 out of 221 diesel-powered vehicles were deemed non-compliant. The tests were conducted as per the Environment and Natural Resources Act, 2020, the Pollution Control Standards, 2024, and the Waste Collection and Transportation Procedure, 2024.
KMC Assistant Spokesperson Dhurba Kumar Kafle highlighted the city’s commitment to reducing vehicular pollution.
RPP to strengthen people’s movement against govt
The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has announced its commitment to intensify the people’s struggle against the government.
At the ongoing Central Working Committee meeting in Kathmandu, Chair Rajendra Lingden highlighted that the party would reinforce its movement by articulating specific demands. He stated that the meeting, which began on Friday, would focus on shaping the party’s strategy, reviewing the government’s performance, and addressing its future role as an opposition party.
Construction of railway in Bardibas halted amid land compensation dispute
The construction of the Janakpur-Bardibas railway project in Bardibas, Mahottari has been brought to a standstill following opposition from local landowners.
The residents of Bardibas Municipality-14 halted the project, accusing the Railway Department of initiating the bidding process without addressing longstanding compensation disputes.
Fourteen families residing near the railway station area have demanded proper demarcation of land, resolution of disputes, and fair compensation. Local resident Malti Khanal stated that the protest erupted because the department acted arbitrarily without resolving the issues.
Prachanda meets families of armed conflict martyrs
Maoist Center chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ is meeting families of cadres who lost their lives during the armed conflict as part of his political tour in western Nepal.
On Friday, Dahal visited the house of Bhagwati Chaudhary in Tulsipur-8, Batolpur, Dang, where six members of Chaudhary’s family were killed during the conflict led by the Maoist. According to Dahal’s secretariat, the leader, accompanied by party officials, shared a traditional Tharu meal prepared by the family.
Earlier, on Thursday, Dahal visited the home of martyr Dambar Ranabhat in Khajura-3, Banke, and met with other families of martyrs in the region.
Minister Yadav tells Dharan Mayor to stop being dramatic over drinking water issue
Minister for Water Supply Pradeep Yadav has criticized Dharan Sub-metropolitan Mayor Hark Sampang, accusing him of engaging in “drama” instead of addressing the city’s drinking water problem effectively.
Speaking at a press conference at the ministry on Friday to announce the Drinking Water and Sanitation Regulations, 2024, approved by the Council of Ministers, Minister Yadav remarked that Dharan’s water issues require action rather than theatrics.
He alleged that Mayor Sampang’s claim of personally supplying water to Dharan residents had caused disruptions and damaged the local drinking water corporation.
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