KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
SC dismisses habeas corpus petitions of Oli, Lekhak; orders release on April 9
The Supreme Court has dismissed habeas corpus petitions filed on behalf of CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak in connection with casualties reported during the Gen-Z protests held on September 8 and 9, 2025. A joint bench of Justices Binod Sharma and Sunil Kumar Pokharel rejected the petitions filed by Oli’s spouse, Radhika Shakya, and Lekhak’s spouse, Yashoda Lekhak. With the dismissal of the petitions, the Supreme Court also issued a directive order in the name of the government. The court has ordered that both individuals be released from custody upon the expiry of the latest five-day extension granted on Sunday.
House of Representatives endorses three ordinances
The House of Representatives of Nepal has unanimously endorsed three ordinances during its meeting on Monday. The approved ordinances include the Voter List (First Amendment) Ordinance, 2082, the House of Representatives Member Election (First Amendment) Ordinance, 2082, and the Nepal Special Service (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2082. The proposal to endorse the ordinances was presented by Home Minister Sudan Gurung. Prior to that, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal informed the House that no notice had been received seeking to reject the ordinances. During the meeting, the House also unanimously passed a condolence motion over the death of Ram Chandra Bhattarai, a lawmaker from the Nepali Communist Party.
Govt serious about repatriating Nepalis affected by West Asia conflict: Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has said the government is taking the situation of Nepalis affected by the ongoing conflict in West Asia seriously and is prepared to facilitate their return if necessary. Speaking to journalists at Singha Durbar on Monday, Khanal said the government is closely monitoring the situation and making necessary arrangements to assist Nepalis facing difficulties due to the conflict. He informed that more than 88,000 names have been collected for facilitation purposes, adding that the government is working based on the urgency of those needing immediate return to Nepal.
HoR forms 21-member Business Advisory Committee
The House of Representatives of Nepal on Monday approved the formation of a 21-member Business Advisory Committee. The committee will coordinate and manage parliamentary business and legislative scheduling within the House. The members of the committee are: Achyutam Lamichhane, Afsana Banu, Aryan Rai, KP Khanal, Kamini Chaudhary, Krantishikha Dhital, Khushbu Oli, Ganesh Singh Thagunna, Guru Prasad Baral, Ganga Laxmi Awal, Tapeshwar Yadav, Devaraj Pathak, Narendra Kumar Kerung, Prakash Chandra Pariyar, Nisha Dangi, Bodh Narayan Shrestha, Meena Kumari Yadav, Yubaraj Dulal, Rajan Gautam, Ram Lama and Bipin Kumar Acharya. The committee will play a key role in coordinating parliamentary agendas and ensuring the smooth functioning of legislative proceedings.
Govt forms five-member committee to assess land status in Phewa Lake’s boundaries
The government has formed a five-member committee to determine the current status of land within the four corners of Phewa Lake. The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation has constituted the committee under the coordination of the Director General of the Department of Land Management and Records. The committee is tasked with studying the present condition of the land and existing structures within the four forts of Phewa Lake. It will also compile and officially record the details of all land plots within the lake area. The ministry stated that the committee will conduct a detailed study of both private and government-owned land within the lake area, including their registration and usage status. The committee has been given seven days to submit a report with verified details of all plots in the lake area, aiming to strengthen the conservation and management of Phewa Lake.
Indian Ambassador meets Foreign Minister Khanal, discusses bilateral cooperation
Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal on Monday. During the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singha Durbar, Ambassador Srivastava conveyed congratulations and best wishes to Minister Khanal on behalf of Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The meeting marks an important high-level engagement from the Indian side following the formation of Nepal’s new government. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two sides held detailed discussions on issues of mutual interest and ways to further strengthen the long-standing Nepal–India relationship. Discussions also focused on key areas such as connectivity, energy trade, and pending development projects. Ambassador Srivastava reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s development efforts.
Finance Minister Wagle says govt working to bring Nepal out of FATF Grey List
Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has said the government is working to strengthen good governance in order to remove Nepal from the FATF Grey List. Speaking during a meeting with representatives of the Stock Broker Association Nepal on Monday, Wagle said the government is committed to governance reforms required to exit the grey list. He said some investigations currently underway are older cases that are now reaching their final stages, stressing that those involved in wrongdoing will not receive impunity, while also assuring that actions will not be driven by selective retaliation. Wagle also said the government and the Rastriya Swatantra Party are not opposed to the private sector, describing the administration as private-sector friendly.
Speaker Aryal vows neutrality, calls for active and accountable Parliament
Speaker of the House of Representatives Dol Prasad Aryal has pledged to carry out a neutral, impartial, and coordinating role in Parliament, without discrimination based on numbers. Chairing the first meeting after his election, Aryal stressed the need to transform Parliament into an active institution rather than a passive one, urging all stakeholders to contribute to its effective functioning through sound constitutional practices. He stated that the public mandate given to lawmakers for five years is not just about authority but also a responsibility to ensure good governance and economic development.
Govt sets up grievance management center at Federal Affairs Ministry
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration has established a Grievance Management Center to address complaints related to public services delivered by the ministry. According to the ministry, the center has been set up to ensure the hearing and resolution of complaints from service recipients regarding service delivery processes and outcomes. The ministry stated that individuals can lodge complaints related to its jurisdiction and performance through the newly established mechanism.
National Vigilance Center deploys teams outside capital to monitor public service delivery
The National Vigilance Center has deployed monitoring teams to districts outside the capital to assess whether public services are being delivered in line with the government’s governance reform plans. Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhatta said the teams have been sent to nine districts beyond the Kathmandu Valley starting Monday, with the aim of ensuring compliance with newly revised office hours and improving service delivery.
Gold price drops by Rs 2,600 per tola
Gold prices declined on Monday, according to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association. The federation said the price of gold fell by Rs 2,600 per tola, bringing the new rate to Rs 291,400 per tola. On the Sunday, gold had been traded at Rs 294,000 per tola. Silver prices also decreased on the same day. The price of silver dropped by Rs 50 per tola and is currently being traded at Rs 4,780 per tola.
UML lawmaker Mahar demands unconditional release of Oli and Lekhak
Ain Bahadur Mahar, a lawmaker from the CPN-UML, has demanded the unconditional release of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak. Speaking during Monday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Mahar urged the government to end what he described as politics driven by revenge and prejudice and to immediately release the two leaders. He claimed the government had arrested the former prime minister and former home minister in an unlawful and unjust manner. Stressing that there is no place for bias or retaliation in a democracy, Mahar said the rule of law requires equal treatment for everyone. Mahar also called on the government to withdraw its decision to ban student organisations and trade unions included in the recently announced governance reform agenda.
UML’s Jhakri calls for probe into Gen-Z movement incidents; UML vows strong oversight of govt
Ram Kumari Jhakri, a member of the National Assembly from the UML, has said the narrative that burning key state institutions carries no consequences must be disproved. Speaking during the special hour of Monday’s meeting of the National Assembly of Nepal, Jhakri questioned who would take responsibility for the burning of historic state structures during the Gen-Z movement on September 8 and 9, 2025, which some have described as peaceful. Addressing the House for the first time since being elected, she stressed the need for an impartial investigation to determine who used young people during the movement and to ensure the state remains accountable.
NA members draw govt attention to multiple issues
Members of the National Assembly have drawn the government’s attention to multiple issues during the ongoing meeting on Monday. Speaking during the special hour of the meeting, Ram Kumari Jhakri said the narrative suggesting that there is nothing wrong with burning important state structures such as the Supreme Court of Nepal must be disproved. She stressed the need for a fair investigation into the Gen-Z movement and called for the state to be held accountable. Similarly, Ranjit Karna said the Nepali Congress would support the government in efforts aimed at positive change, good governance and prosperity. Karna noted that although the Constitution guarantees various rights, people have not achieved the expected outcomes due to weak implementation.
Pun asks PM Balen to initiate India dialogue for Bhairahawa airport flights
Nepali Communist Part (NCP) leader Barshaman Pun has urged Prime Minister Balendra Shah to move forward with key development projects. Pun made the suggestion during a discussion held by Prime Minister Shah on Monday with members of the House of Representatives elected from Lumbini Province. During the meeting, Pun drew the Prime Minister’s attention to ongoing development projects in his home district Rolpa District as well as other areas of Lumbini Province, urging that they be given priority along with several new initiatives. He particularly stressed the need to bring the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa into full operation without delay. Pun said diplomatic dialogue with India should be expedited to secure international air routes necessary for regular international flights from the airport.
President Paudel urges NRNA to encourage investment in Nepal
President Ram Chandra Paudel has called on the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) to inspire non-resident Nepalis to invest in Nepal and help utilize the country’s economic potential. During a meeting with newly elected NRNA representatives at Shital Niwas on Monday, President Paudel said the diaspora community could contribute to Nepal’s efforts toward good governance, economic prosperity and international recognition. He identified sectors such as hydropower, tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, information technology, education and health as promising areas for investment. The president also noted that Nepal’s geographic position between the large markets of India and China offers opportunities for expanding infrastructure, industrialisation and domestic production.
Traffic police launch crackdown on drunk and reckless driving in Kathmandu Valley
Traffic police have launched a strict monitoring and enforcement campaign against drivers violating traffic rules across Kathmandu Valley in a bid to reduce the growing risk of road accidents. The special operation has been initiated by the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office after authorities concluded that drink driving, drug use and traffic rule violations are among the major causes of recent road accidents in the valley. The campaign is being led by Senior Superintendent of Police Navaraj Adhikari, chief of the traffic office, who has been deployed on the streets with a team. At the same time, a team stationed at the traffic control room monitors violations and informs field officers about vehicles breaking the rules.
Heavy snowfall hits lower Mustang
Heavy snowfall has been reported in lower Mustang, including the Muktinath area of Waragung Muktikshetra–1. Snow has been falling continuously since this afternoon in the Muktinath region. According to Dinesh Bhusal, Manager of the Muktinath Development Committee, the ongoing snowfall is the heaviest of the season so far. “Although the area has experienced snowfall six times earlier, today’s snowfall is particularly heavy and has continued for the past three hours,” he said. The snowfall has caused difficulties for devotees visiting Muktinath. Suraj Gurung, operator of Hotel Grand Sambala, said that the route from Ranipauwa Bus Park to the temple has been obstructed due to the snow.
Expressway system to be used for courier goods sent and received via post
An expressway system will now be used for the customs clearance of goods sent abroad and imported through postal services in Nepal. According to Manmaya Bhattarai Pangeni, the arrangement has been introduced through coordination among the Department of Postal Services Nepal, Tribhuvan International Airport Customs Office and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal to facilitate courier services handled through the postal system. She said using the expressway will make postal consignments faster, safer and more reliable. A dedicated customs clearance system will also be established at Tribhuvan International Airport specifically for postal couriers. Authorities have also arranged for services to continue on public holidays. While the Goshwara Hulak Office Dillibazar had previously remained open during holidays, customs clearance was often delayed because the customs office and banks were closed.
Four major businesses face action
The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has taken action against four major marts during its ongoing market monitoring drive. Following complaints identified during on-site inspections, the Department has directed the firms to appear within three days with relevant business documents. The marts include Metro Market Pvt. Ltd. (Imadol), Saleways Cash and Carry Pvt. Ltd. (Maharajgunj), Mega Mart Pvt. Ltd. (Bishalnagar), and Bhatbhateni Supermarket and Departmental Store Pvt. Ltd. (Chakrapath). Similarly, Muna Krishi Limited has also been instructed to submit documents within the same timeframe. In addition, 10 other firms have been issued corrective directives.
Police ‘sweep operation’ in Bhaktapur: 30 more arrested
Bhaktapur police have arrested 30 more individuals for engaging in activities that disturb public peace and security. As part of the ongoing ‘Sweep Operation’ campaign, police apprehended people from different areas of Bhaktapur on Sunday night for making noise in groups, consuming drugs, and exhibiting suspicious behavior, said Surya Bahadur Khadka, Chief of the District Police Office, Bhaktapur. Earlier, on Saturday, the police had arrested 60 individuals for similar offenses and initiated investigations. Authorities have stated that those found not involved in unlawful activities during the inquiry will be released.
New office timing begins: 9 am–5 pm workweek with two days off
From today (March 6), government offices and public bodies operate from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. According to a Cabinet decision made on Sunday, the new office hours apply to all government and public institutions, except educational institutions. In addition, public offices will now observe a two-day weekend, remaining closed on Saturdays and Sundays. The government has stated that the two-day weekend system will be implemented in educational institutions starting from April 28, coinciding with the beginning of the new academic session.
Eight construction companies blacklisted
The Public Procurement Monitoring Office under the Prime Minister’s Office has blacklisted eight construction companies for failing to complete projects within the stipulated deadlines. According to a notice issued today, the blacklisting follows requests from various agencies and has been carried out under Sub-section (1) of Section 63 of the Public Procurement Act, 2063. The affected companies will be barred from participating in any government procurement processes for a period of one to three years. The blacklisted companies include Public Works Services and Suppliers in Rolpa-2, Talabang; Silk Market Pvt. Ltd. in Kathmandu; Brodarsh Construction in Jaleshwor, Mahottari; Dev Construction Services in Gorkha; Urban Construction in Chitwan; Suryadeep Printing House in Kathmandu; Dhulikhel Construction Services in Kathmandu; and Himshikhar Construction Pvt. Ltd. in Rupandehi.
Bagmati Provincial Assembly meeting taking place tomorrow
The winter session of the Bagmati Provincial Assembly is scheduled to convene on April 7 at 4:00 pm. Bagmati Province Chief Deepak Prasad Devkota has summoned the meeting after completing the constitutional procedures, according to Jagdish Rijal, Information Officer at his secretariat. The previous session of the Provincial Assembly concluded on November 22, 2025.
18 people diagnosed with leprosy in Chitwan
Eighteen people seeking treatment at hospitals in Chitwan district have been diagnosed with leprosy in the current fiscal year. The District Public Health Office reported that the majority of cases were from Bharatpur Metropolitan City. Jayaram Duwadi, TB/Leprosy Officer at the Office, said 13 cases were recorded in Bharatpur, four in Kalika Municipality, and one in Madi Municipality. Of the 18 patients, 10 are men and eight are women. Last fiscal year, the district recorded 43 leprosy cases, including 26 men. Duwadi emphasized that leprosy is a curable disease, but delayed treatment can lead to severe disfigurement, affecting the skin, nerves, limbs, and eyes.
Snow leopard attack kills 21 livestock in Upper Mustang
A snow leopard attack has killed 21 sheep and Himalayan goats in Chumjung village of Lhomanthang Rural Municipality in Upper Mustang. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Office in Lhomanthang, the attack left 21 livestock dead and seven injured. The incident occurred on Saturday night when a snow leopard entered the barn of livestock farmer Ghyacho Gurung and killed 10 Himalayan goats and 11 sheep. Chief of the ACAP Office in Lhomanthang, Umesh Paudel, said Gurung had been rearing a total of 315 Himalayan goats and sheep in the barn.
Tractor driver killed in accident in Palpa
A tractor accident in Palpa has claimed the life of a driver. The deceased has been identified as 52-year-old Tek Bahadur Ale of Bangepasal, Rampur Municipality-4. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Homaprakash Chaudhary of the District Police Office, the incident occurred while Ale was plowing a field in Gailuk, Rampur Municipality-3. Police said the tractor (Lu 3 Ta 725) suddenly overturned while he was working in the field of local resident Durg Bahadur Malla Thakuri, crushing him underneath. Ale died on the spot.
44 climbers receive permits for Dhaulagiri and Annapurna this spring season
A total of 44 climbers have obtained permits to scale Dhaulagiri and Annapurna during the current spring climbing season. According to the Department of Tourism, 17 climbers, including eight women in two groups, have received permits to climb Dhaulagiri, which stands at 8,167 meters in Myagdi District. Similarly, 27 climbers, including eight women in four groups, have secured permits to climb Annapurna, which rises to 8,091 meters in the same district.
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