KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Special Court convicts three in Teramax corruption case, acquits former minister Basnet
The Special Court has convicted three individuals in the Nepal Telecommunications Authority’s Teramax telecommunications traffic monitoring and fraud control system corruption case, while acquitting former minister Mohan Bahadur Basnet. A bench of judges Hemant Rawal, Dilli Ratna Shrestha and Umesh Koirala found three former officials of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority guilty in the corruption case. According to the verdict, former NTA Chairman Digambar Jha has been sentenced to one year in prison, while former board members Dhanraj Gyawali and Tika Prasad Upreti have each been sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.
Govt orders dissolved civil service unions to vacate state-owned buildings within three days
The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Federal Affairs and General Administration has directed former civil service trade unions and organizations to vacate buildings and other structures constructed on government-owned land within three days. According to the ministry, the legal basis for the organizations’ use of government land ended after the government abolished the civil service trade union system. The affected organizations had previously operated as national-level civil service trade unions and had built or occupied structures on state-owned property. The ministry said the Cabinet has already decided to revoke the relevant arrangements, while the Department of Labour and Occupational Safety has cancelled the registration of the concerned trade unions.
Nepal reports no public health risk from hantavirus, ministry dismisses online rumors
The Ministry of Health and Food Safety has clarified that there is currently no public health risk related to hantavirus in Nepal, following the spread of misinformation and rumors about the virus on social media and other platforms. According to the ministry, there has been no evidence of community transmission or any outbreak of hantavirus in the country to date. The ministry also stated that the World Health Organization (WHO), which continues to monitor global health threats, has not reported any hantavirus-related incident posing a public health risk.
Law Minister Sobita Gautam says priority laws to be tabled in Parliament by July
Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Sobita Gautam has said that the government is preparing to prioritise essential legislation and table related bills in the Federal Parliament by the end of July. Responding to queries raised by lawmakers during Monday’s discussion on the Appropriation Bill in the National Assembly, Minister Gautam said work is underway to identify a list of priority laws that require immediate enactment. Lawmakers had raised concerns over the need to complete legal reforms within set timelines, accelerate the repeal and amendment of outdated laws, expand digital legal services, improve the management of government cases, and enhance the capacity of judges.
NC dissident faction opens separate central contact office
The Nepali Congress establishment-aligned dissident faction has opened a separate central contact office. The office was inaugurated on Monday by former acting party president Purna Bahadur Khadka, who formally opened the door with the office key. Senior leaders including Prakashman Singh, Shashank Koirala, and Krishna Prasad Sitaula were present at the inauguration ceremony.
Prof. Dr. Bhola Thapa assumes office as Tribhuvan University vice-chancellor
Bhola Thapa officially assumed office as the new Vice-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University on Monday. Prime Minister and Chancellor of the university Balendra Shah appointed Prof. Dr. Thapa on July 3 in accordance with the recommendation of a committee formed under the Tribhuvan University Act, 1992. A former vice-chancellor of Kathmandu University, Prof. Dr. Thapa is widely recognized for his contributions to higher education and research in Nepal. During his tenure at Kathmandu University, he served in several key leadership roles, including registrar and dean of the School of Engineering.
NC internal rift deepens as dissidents say unity efforts hit dead end
The dissident faction within the Nepali Congress has formally launched its preparations for the party’s 15th General Convention by setting up a separate contact office in Kathmandu. Party leaders from the non-establishment group inaugurated the office in Chundevi on Monday, marking the beginning of formal organisational work for the upcoming convention. According to Congress leader Min Bishwakarma, a meeting of the party’s 14th General Convention-elected working committee was also held following the inauguration, where contemporary political issues and agenda for the upcoming convention were discussed.
Bhishmaraj Angdembe questions govt’s Constitution amendment panel, criticizes PM’s absence from Parliament
Nepali Congress Parliamentary Party leader Bhishmaraj Angdembe has questioned the committee formed by the government to prepare a discussion paper on constitutional amendments, accusing it of handling the process in an immature manner. Addressing Monday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Angdembe said the Constitution should be amended without undermining its fundamental spirit. “We should make necessary amendments without altering the Constitution’s core values. But the government is treating the amendment process lightly by appointing as coordinator someone who lacks constitutional legal expertise and was not involved in drafting the Constitution. We consider this an immature approach,” he said. He further alleged that the coordinator was appointed based on political proximity rather than constitutional contribution.
Dalit Commission blames entrenched caste bias in Singha Durbar for surname listing delay
The National Dalit Commission has said that the prolonged delay in finalising the list of surnames for the Dalit community is primarily due to an entrenched caste-based mindset within Singha Durbar and the decision-making level of the state. The Commission said it has already made seven formal recommendations to the government, yet the surname listing process has not been completed. Speaking at an interaction programme organised by the Active Dalit Journalists Association Nepal, Commission Chairperson Devaraj Bishwakarma said the process has been affected due to discomfort within state institutions over the inclusion of some surnames belonging to non-Dalit communities in the list.
Paddy plantation at 32.38% nationwide, down from 45% last year
Paddy plantation has slowed down this year compared to the same period last year, according to the latest national statistics. As of Monday, July 6, only 32.38 percent of the total paddy-plantable land has been planted across the country. In the same period last year, plantation had already reached around 45 percent. According to data, paddy cultivation is estimated across 1.37 million hectares nationwide, of which 443,595.09 hectares have been planted so far this year.
Shram Sanskriti Party warns against rolling back constitutional gains through amendment
Shram Sanskriti Party Chief Whip Aren Rai has warned that any attempt to roll back the achievements secured under the Constitution in the name of constitutional amendment would be unacceptable. Speaking at Monday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Rai cautioned against undermining democracy, federalism, and secularism or attempting to abolish the provincial system through the amendment process. He said that if the Constitution is to be amended, the existing one-third (33 percent) representation guaranteed for women should instead be increased to 50 percent.
NC leader Angdembe questions PM Balen Shah’s declared assets, calls for transparent investigation
Nepali Congress parliamentary leader Bhishmaraj Angdembe has questioned the source of Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s declared assets, calling for a transparent investigation into the gold and cash listed in the Prime Minister’s publicly disclosed property details. Addressing Monday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Angdembe said the asset declaration released after Shah assumed office showed nearly 200 tolas of gold and bank deposits exceeding Rs 10 million, and argued that the legal source of those assets should be clearly explained.
Speaker directs government to respond to lawmakers’ concerns, provide disaster preparedness update
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dol Prasad Aryal, has directed the government to address the concerns raised by lawmakers during the emergency and zero hours of parliamentary sittings. During Monday’s House session, Speaker Aryal urged the government to inform Parliament about the measures taken to mitigate the loss of life and property caused by floods, landslides, and inundation across the country.
Govt to probe assets of senior BPKIHS officials, form reform committee
The government has decided to form a committee to investigate the assets of long-serving senior officials at the B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) as part of efforts to strengthen governance and institutional reform. The decision was made following a joint inspection of the institute on Sunday by Minister for Health and Food Hygiene Nisha Mehta and Home Minister Sudan Gurung. Minister Mehta said the asset investigation committee would examine the wealth of senior officials to enhance healthcare delivery, administrative governance, and institutional accountability at the institute.
Guru Baral accuses govt of authoritarian mindset
CPN-UML lawmaker Guru Baral has accused the current government of moving forward with what he described as “undemocratic and authoritarian thinking,” saying it is drifting toward an “elected authoritarian model.” Speaking during Sunday’s special hour in the House of Representatives, Baral said he has serious disagreements with contradictory statements from the ruling side as the government completes its first 100 days in office, as well as with the constitutional amendment process initiated through the Prime Minister’s Office.
Nepal’s construction costs surge as inflation in bricks, wires and wages drives index to 157.6
Nepal’s construction sector is facing mounting cost pressure, with the Construction Input Price Index rising sharply in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025/26, according to a report published by the National Statistics Office. The overall construction cost index reached 157.6 in the Mangsir–Chaitra quarter, marking a 3.60 percent increase compared to the previous quarter. The rise has been largely driven by a significant jump in construction material prices, particularly bricks, steel, and electrical wiring. The construction material sub-index climbed 5.33 percent to 138.6. Brick prices recorded one of the steepest increases, rising 9.33 percent quarterly and 13.41 percent annually, reaching an all-time high index level of 147.2. The report attributes this surge to supply disruptions in brick kilns and strong seasonal construction demand.
Flood-hit squatters in Kirtipur holding centre reject government’s relief condition
Heavy rainfall has worsened living conditions for landless families taking shelter at the Radhaswami Holding Centre in Kirtipur, where floodwater has entered temporary tents, leaving dozens of displaced residents struggling amid growing uncertainty over government relief. The holding centre, located in an area frequently inundated by flooding from the Bishnumati River, remains at high risk during the monsoon. Following heavy rainfall on Saturday, water entered the tents housing 67 displaced families, affecting 167 people who have been sleeping on the ground. According to volunteer Gyanendra Karki, the camp includes a postpartum mother, four children under the age of one, and several elderly residents. “They were initially brought here for only 15 days, but it has now been more than two months,” Karki said. “The government has yet to make proper arrangements, while many of the displaced families refuse to move elsewhere until a permanent solution is guaranteed.”
NEPSE CEO Chudamani Chapagain resigns before completing term
Chudamani Chapagain has resigned as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), officials said on Monday. According to sources, Chapagain submitted his resignation to Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle. He stepped down before completing his full tenure. Chapagain had been appointed NEPSE CEO on April 1, 2025, through a Cabinet decision.
Gyanendra Shahi demands action against fuel stations over alleged artificial shortage after price cut
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) parliamentary leader Gyanendra Shahi has demanded immediate legal action against petroleum outlets allegedly creating artificial fuel shortages following a recent price reduction. Taking to social media, Shahi claimed that several petrol pumps across the country have reportedly stopped selling petrol and diesel, citing “no stock” immediately after the government cut fuel prices on July 1. He alleged that some business operators may be intentionally withholding fuel stocks to sell them later at higher margins, calling it an unfair practice that harms consumers and undermines market discipline and the rule of law.
No misuse of taxpayers’ money, says Communications Minister Timilsina
Minister for Information and Communications Dr. Bikram Timilsina has assured that not a single rupee collected from taxpayers will be misused. Responding to lawmakers’ questions during discussions on his ministry’s budget allocation in the National Assembly on Monday, Timilsina said the allocated budget would be spent strictly in line with its intended purpose and approved standards. He stressed that the government remains committed to ensuring fiscal discipline, transparency, accountability, and good governance in public spending.
Government prioritizing youth empowerment, skills and employment, says Labour Minister
Minister for Youth, Labour and Employment Ramji Yadav has said the government is prioritizing programmes focused on youth empowerment, skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment generation. Responding to lawmakers’ questions during Monday’s National Assembly session, Yadav said the government is committed to making foreign employment safer, more systematic, and dignified while placing greater emphasis on expanding domestic employment opportunities.
Nepal Students Union accuses government of interference in universities and academic autonomy
The Nepal Students Union (NSU) has accused the current government of interfering in universities and undermining academic autonomy. At a press conference held in Kathmandu on Monday, NSU criticized the government’s 100-day performance review in the education sector, alleging that the introduction of 15 university-related laws at once violated the principle of separation of powers. The student wing of the Nepali Congress claimed that although the report of the Education Service Commission had proposed the formation of a “Board of Trustees” for appointing vice-chancellors, the government bypassed this structure and instead centralized appointments under the Prime Minister’s authority, creating what it called a double standard driven by political bargaining.
Nepal plans rule requiring climbers to summit 7,000m peaks before attempting Everest
The government is preparing to introduce a new provision that would require climbers to first summit mountains above 7,000 metres before being allowed to attempt Mount Everest. Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation Minister Khadka Raj Paudel informed the National Assembly on Monday that the requirement will be included in a new tourism law and regulations currently under preparation. Responding to questions during discussions on the ministry’s budget, the minister said the measure is aimed at reducing congestion on Everest and improving safety standards on the world’s highest peak. He noted that the growing number of climbers on Everest has raised serious concerns about safety and environmental sustainability, stressing that unmanaged crowding could threaten the mountain’s long-term viability.
Khamenei funeral procession begins in Tehran as Iran vows revenge
Iran on Monday began a funeral procession in Tehran for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as authorities sought to demonstrate public support for the country’s leadership following his death. Khamenei’s flag-draped coffin, along with the coffins of family members killed in a February 28 airstrike during the conflict involving Israel and the United States, was transported through the streets of the capital toward Mehrabad International Airport. Iranian state television confirmed that the procession had begun, with the government expecting large crowds to attend the ceremonies across Tehran.
Over 2,000 drivers penalized in 24 hours
A total of 2,176 drivers were penalized for violating traffic rules in the Kathmandu Valley over the past 24 hours. According to Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office spokesperson Superintendent of Police Naresh Prasad Subedi, the action was taken against drivers involved in various traffic violations. Among them, 81 drivers were booked for driving under the influence of intoxicants, 101 for illegal ride-sharing, 159 for violating traffic signals, and 202 for speeding.
Gold price falls by Rs 900 per tola, silver also declines
Gold prices in the domestic market declined on Monday, with the price of the precious metal dropping by Rs 900 per tola. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, fine gold is being traded at Rs 289,400 per tola, down from Rs 290,300 per tola on Sunday. Silver prices also edged lower. The price of silver fell by Rs 20 per tola to Rs 4,585, compared to Rs 4,605 per tola on Sunday.
Pokhara tourism stakeholders, Flydubai discuss sustainability of upcoming Dubai flights
Representatives of Flydubai and Pokhara’s tourism sector have discussed measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the upcoming Dubai–Pokhara flight service, which is scheduled to begin on September 23. The discussion was held on Sunday with office-bearers of the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) Pokhara. Flydubai’s Nepal General Manager, Nawaraj Shahi, shared updates on preparations for the new service and stressed that support from local stakeholders would be essential to maintaining regular operations.
Kathmandu Valley Police launches campaign against drug abuse and human trafficking
Kathmandu Valley Police Office (KVPO) Chief and Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Police Sushil Singh Rathore has called for coordinated efforts to combat narcotic drug abuse and human trafficking. Speaking at the launch of a week-long awareness campaign at the New Bus Park (Gongabu Bus Park) in Kathmandu on Monday, AIG Rathore said close cooperation between the police and the public is essential to build a safe and crime-free society. Highlighting the campaign’s objectives, he said the initiative aims to curb the growing problem of drug addiction among young people and help uncover hidden cases of human trafficking.
Night traffic restriction on Dhulikhel–Khawa section of Araniko Highway postponed
Night-time traffic restrictions planned for the Dhulikhel–Khawa section of the Araniko Highway have been postponed due to construction difficulties caused by continuous rainfall, authorities said. The section, which is currently undergoing upgrading and blacktopping work, had earlier been scheduled for full night closure from 7:00 pm to 5:00 am for 15 days starting today to facilitate construction work. However, the plan has now been withdrawn after recent rainfall damaged parts of the prepared sub-base and affected ongoing road works, making construction under the previous schedule unfeasible, according to the Road Division Office.
Tourist arrivals, revenue decline at Langtang National Park
Tourist arrivals to Langtang National Park have declined during the current fiscal year, leading to a significant drop in revenue collection, according to park officials. Data from the park shows that around 56,000 tourists visited Langtang National Park in the previous fiscal year. In contrast, only 50,360 visitors have entered the park so far this fiscal year. Among them, 39,011 were domestic tourists, 788 were visitors from SAARC countries, and 10,561 were from other foreign nations.
Neymar announces international retirement
Brazil’s veteran player Neymar Jr. announced his retirement from international football after the five-time world champions suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium. He finished his international career as the all-time leading scorer for Brazil. The 34-year-old forward brought the curtain down on his international career moments after Brazil’s hopes of a sixth World Cup title were ended by Erling Haaland’s late brace, with Neymar scoring a stoppage-time penalty that proved only a consolation.
Rhododendron plantation begins along Mundum trekking trail to boost tourism
Rhododendron saplings have been planted along the Mundum trekking trail in Bhojpur as part of the Sagarmatha afforestation campaign, with the aim of promoting environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The plantation drive was launched to enhance greenery, protect the local environment and further develop the trekking route, which has emerged as a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors. Vice-Chairperson Ramadevi Rai of the rural municipality said the initiative seeks to make the surroundings of the Mundum trail greener, more attractive and eco-friendly.
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