KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
DP Aryal to be elected Speaker unanimously
Dol Prasad (DP) Aryal of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is set to be elected as Speaker of the House of Representatives (HoR) unanimously. The Federal Parliament Secretariat had scheduled the nomination process for the Speaker election today, from 11 am to 2 pm. When nominations closed, only Aryal had filed his candidacy. Earlier, the CPN-UML had considered nominating a candidate for the Speaker post but ultimately decided not to file at the last moment. With no other nominations submitted, Aryal is now set to be elected Speaker unanimously.
RSP Chair Lamichhane calls for justice for victims’ families
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has stressed the need to ensure justice for families who have lost their young children. Speaking to journalists at Singha Durbar on Friday, Lamichhane made the remarks amid ongoing debate over the government’s arrest of former Prime Minister KP Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. “The first right to justice belongs to the families of the martyrs and to the injured. Everyone has the right to justice,” he said. Responding to a question on whether the arrests were driven by political revenge, Lamichhane said, “The public is watching. All our actions and decisions are before the people.”
11 Nepalis arrested in Gulf countries for spreading war rumors on social media
Eleven Nepali nationals have been arrested in several West Asian countries for sharing audio-visual content and images on social media that allegedly spread panic about a possible war involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. The arrests were confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during a press conference on Friday. According to the Ministry, four individuals were detained in Saudi Arabia, three each in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, and one in Oman. Authorities in these countries have strict laws prohibiting the sharing of images or videos of missile or drone attacks that could incite fear or spread misinformation. Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri said the individuals were arrested for violating such regulations by posting sensitive content online.
21 Nepalis injured in ongoing West Asia conflict: MoFA
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has reported that 21 Nepalis have been injured and one has died in the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Chhetri provided an update on the situation. He stated that a total of 86,420 Nepalis have registered their details in the Department of Consular Services’ online system to help track those affected by the conflict and facilitate possible rescue operations. Chhetri noted that the number of Nepalis calling the ministry to report being in unsafe situations has gradually decreased. “All Nepali citizens stranded in transit have been assisted,” he said.
UML rejects interference claims, raises concerns over media policy
The CPN-UML, in an emergency meeting in Chyasal on Friday, issued six key decisions focusing on party leadership, public sentiment, and critical national issues, including the protection of Nepalis amid foreign conflicts. The meeting clarified that there was no party interference in the election of the parliamentary party leader, dismissing criticism surrounding the process. It also noted that Ram Bahadur Thapa had corrected his controversial remarks made during Thursday’s meeting of the House of Representatives. The party formally resolved to respect the public mandate expressed through the recent House of Representatives elections. It also extended thanks to voters, the Election Commission, security agencies, civil servants, observers, media personnel, civil society, and the government for their roles in conducting the polls, according to Deputy Secretary General Lekhraj Bhatta.
Gorkha Cooperative chairman, four others arrested over Rs 4 billion misappropriation
Police have arrested four officials, including Chairman Mansingh Rai, of Gorkha Savings and Credit Cooperative Limited in Talchhikhel, Lalitpur, on charges of embezzling depositors’ funds. According to Senior Superintendent of Police Hobindra Bogati of the District Police Range, Lalitpur, the arrests were made following complaints from more than 3,100 savers alleging misappropriation of around Rs 4 billion. Those arrested include Chairman Mansingh Rai, Chief Executive Officer Lal Bahadur Chhetri, and directors Karna Bahadur Rai and Anli Kumar Rai. Police said complaints filed by 3,102 depositors claim that approximately Rs 3.89 billion was misused.
Photo of Home Minister Sudan Gurung resting at ministry goes public
A photo of Home Minister Sudan Gurung resting at his office has surfaced on social media, drawing public attention. According to his private secretariat, the minister was seen sleeping on a sofa at the Ministry of Home Affairs after being unable to return home due to his continuous work schedule. Officials said Gurung has been engaged in work around the clock, which led him to take rest at the ministry itself. Sharing the photo on Facebook, Gurung wrote, “No creation is greater than the creator, and no government stands above the people.”
Petrol price set at Rs 202 per liter from today
The Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has increased the prices of petroleum products, citing a rise in international fuel costs. The revised rates has come into effect from today. This marks the second fuel price hike in a short period. According to the new rates, the prices of petrol as well as diesel and kerosene have been raised by Rs 15 per litre. Following the adjustment, petrol will cost Rs 199.50 per litre in Charali, Biratnagar, Janakpur, Amalekhgunj, Dhangadhi, and Birgunj. The price will be Rs 201 per litre in Surkhet and Dang, and Rs 202 per litre in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Dipayal.
Govt seeks public suggestions to curb corruption
The Government of Nepal has called for public suggestions to strengthen efforts to control corruption and financial irregularities. The move aims to introduce immediate improvements in policy, legal, institutional, procedural, and behavioral aspects of governance. The government has decided to hold heads of offices directly accountable for preventing corruption within their respective institutions. It has urged stakeholders and the general public to provide recommendations to enhance transparency and accountability. Chief Secretary Suman Raj Aryal stated that office heads must ensure courteous service delivery and strict compliance with the code of conduct by employees, including adherence to neutrality, transparency, ethics, and discipline as outlined in existing laws.
Preparations underway to abolish two bodies of Ministry of Communications
The Prime Minister’s Office has initiated steps to abolish two key bodies under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology: the Advertisement Board and the Minimum Wage Determination Committee. The move, recommended by the government’s Task Force on Governance Reforms and Good Governance, has raised questions about the relevance and effectiveness of these bodies. The restructuring process is based on recommendations from a good governance report prepared during the previous government, as well as the current administration’s action plan. According to the report, the work currently carried out by the Advertisement Board could be efficiently managed through an electronic system in coordination with the Department of Information and Broadcasting and Press Council Nepal. The report also notes that office bearers on the board are often selected based on political appointments.
Department of Foreign Employment abolishes token system
The Department of Foreign Employment has abolished the token system and has started issuing work permits within a single day. Director General Mira Acharya shared this update during a press conference on Friday, stating that the department has taken several measures to make foreign employment safe, organized, and dignified, and to protect the rights of Nepali workers following the formation of the current government. She said the Department issued a notice, warning that any foreign employment-related work carried out without a license will be subject to action under Section 10 of the Foreign Employment Act, 2064.
Supreme Court orders schools not to enroll students before academic session starts
The Supreme Court (sc) has instructed the government and concerned stakeholders to ensure that student admissions are carried out only after the official start of the academic session. The interim order was issued in response to a writ petition challenging the practice of some schools admitting students before the session began. The petition claimed that certain schools had issued notices for entrance examinations and admissions processes prematurely, before the academic session officially started. The Supreme Court has also instructed that no actions be taken that violate existing education regulations.
Dialogue, not intimidation, key to boosting revenue: Finance Minister
Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has urged officials at the Birgunj Customs Office to meet revenue targets through dialogue rather than coercion. During an inspection on Friday, Wagle emphasized that while revenue collection targets must be achieved, engaging constructively with industrialists and entrepreneurs is essential. “Revenue should be increased through dialogue, not intimidation or raids,” he told customs officials. He also expressed concern over reports of bribery in government offices and stressed the need to end such practices. The minister said the government would implement a system of rewards and punishments to ensure accountability.
Dedicated web portal for Constitutional Bench launched
A dedicated web portal for the Constitutional Bench has been launched at the Supreme Court to ensure timely resolution of constitutional disputes and to enhance transparency and accountability in the judiciary. Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla inaugurated the portal at a programme held in Kathmandu today. Speaking at the launch, Acting CJ Malla said the initiative aims to strengthen the Constitutional Bench, safeguard the Constitution, and promote transparency in judicial processes. “The Constitutional Bench is the heart of the federal democratic republic and the final interpreter of the Constitution. Unfortunately, it is currently burdened by heavy caseloads and procedural delays. Our efforts will now focus on making it more active and trustworthy,” she said.
Govt overlooks foreign-affiliated colleges regulation in 100-point reform agenda
The government led by Balendra Shah has approved a 100-point governance reform agenda in its first Cabinet meeting, but the plan notably excludes regulation of colleges affiliated with foreign universities, an issue that has remained controversial for years. The omission has raised concerns about whether the government is overlooking a critical sector tied to the credibility and quality of Nepal’s education system. For years, questions have been raised about dozens of colleges operating in violation of set standards under the guise of foreign affiliations, with calls for stricter regulation and action against non-compliant institutions. Despite expectations that a strong government would address long-pending and contentious issues, often ignored due to political instability, the absence of this agenda item has fueled skepticism about the government’s intent to reform the education sector.
Public and private hospitals begin offering 10 percent free beds
Public and private hospitals across Nepal have started implementing the government’s directive to provide 10 percent of hospital beds free of cost to poor and vulnerable patients. According to the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), 32 hospitals—including 19 private and 13 public institutions—are currently offering free treatment through designated beds. In a notice issued on Friday, the Ministry stated that the policy aims to ensure access to healthcare for poor, helpless, and abandoned patients, and to prevent exclusion from medical services due to financial constraints. The initiative also seeks to promote social responsibility among healthcare providers.
UML youths distribute flowers to leaders ahead of Secretariat meeting
Youth leaders of the CPN-UML distributed bouquets of flowers to party leaders arriving for the secretariat meeting at the party headquarters in Chyasal on Friday. The youths said they handed the flowers to leaders attending the meeting as a symbolic gesture while continuing their protest. Earlier, the protesting youths had also burned an effigy of the party’s General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel. They said the protest was meant to exert pressure on the leadership and warned that the party could face further decline if it continues to function in the same manner. The protest comes amid growing dissatisfaction among a section of youth leaders following the party’s recent political setbacks, including the impact of the Gen-Z Movement and the results of the March 5 elections.
India to implement seven community development projects in Nepal
The government of India is set to implement seven community development projects in Nepal following the signing of a memorandum of understanding. The agreement was signed on Wednesday between Nepal’s Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration and the Embassy of India in Kathmandu. Under the projects, a cold storage facility will be constructed at Madhyabindu Municipality–2 in Nawalpur District and another at Laligurans Municipality–2 in Terhathum District.
Gold price rises by Rs 13,000 per tola this week
The price of gold in Nepal has increased by Rs 13,000 per tola this week. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, gold was traded at Rs 294,000 per tola today. However, the association said the price of gold has remained stable today compared to yesterday, as it was traded at the same rate on the day before. Meanwhile, the price of silver has increased by Rs 160 per tola this week. Silver, which was traded at Rs 4,670 per tola last Friday, is currently being traded at Rs 4,830 per tola. Compared to yesterday, the price of silver has increased by Rs 50, as it was traded at Rs 4,780 per tola a day earlier.
Dumre-Besisahar road to be closed eight hours daily
The Kukudi–Turture section of the Dumre–Besisahar road in Bhanu Municipality, Tanahun, will be closed for eight hours daily to allow road expansion work. The closure will remain in effect from 4-13 April , covering the stretch from Kukurdi in Bhanu Municipality-3 to Turture. According to the District Administration Office, the road will be blocked daily from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm and again from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Authorities have urged motorists and the public to use alternative routes during this period.
Improving service delivery a government priority: Minister Timilsina
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina has emphasized that ensuring smooth, fast, and effective service delivery to citizens through institutional capacity development of government agencies and public organizations is a top government priority. Speaking on the occasion of the 76th anniversary of Public Service Broadcasting, Radio Nepal, Dr. Timilsina said the ministry is moving forward with renewed energy to make its institutions strong, accountable, and results-oriented. “Citizens can receive quality services only if government agencies are strong. There is no alternative to building effective, accountable institutions,” he stated.
Trade fair empowers women entrepreneurs: Vice President Yadav
Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has stated that the Women Entrepreneurs Trade Fair plays a key role in helping women entrepreneurs become self-reliant. Speaking at the inauguration of the 9th International Women Entrepreneurs Trade Fair in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur, organized by the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs Nepal to support sales promotion and marketing of women-led products, Vice President Yadav said that women entrepreneurs are the driving force behind a self-reliant, inclusive, and sustainable society. “Women entrepreneurship contributes not only to individual economic empowerment but also to social transformation and national development. When women showcase their potential through entrepreneurship, it benefits families, communities, and the nation. Products by women entrepreneurs reduce imports, encourage exports, create employment, utilize local resources, and strengthen a self-reliant economy,” he said.
Man dies after falling from bicycle in Mahottari
A man died after falling from a bicycle along the Gaushala–Phulkaha road section in Mahottari on Thursday. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Shailendra Bhatta of the District Police Office, the incident occurred in Gaushala Municipality-6 while the man was traveling from Phulkaha towards Gaushala. Police said the identity of the deceased has not yet been established. The man sustained serious injuries in the fall and was taken to Gaushala Municipal Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.
10 injured in microbus and bus collision
Ten people were injured in a collision between a microbus and a bus on the BP Highway at Sitar, Sunkoshi Rural Municipality-5, Sindhuli on Friday. The accident occurred when a microbus (Ba 4 Kha 5052) traveling from Kathmandu toward Kakadbhitta collided with a bus (Bagmati Province 01-006 Kha 2297) coming from Khurkot to Kathmandu.
Dog and cat sterilization campaign launched to control rabies
Kalika Municipality in Chitwan has carried out a sterilization and vaccination campaign targeting community dogs and cats to help control the spread of rabies. The municipality launched the initiative citing a high risk of disease transmission, as community animals often come into contact with wildlife. Municipal veterinarian Dr. Raju Prasad Neupane said the program was implemented in line with the Government of Nepal’s goal of controlling rabies. Under the campaign, teams visited all wards to collect dogs and cats, which were then sterilized and vaccinated against rabies.
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