KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal bats for development-oriented bilateral ties
Nepal wants to engage with a “rising India” that has emerged as a major technological and economic force, the country’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Sunday, while advocating a development-oriented approach to bilateral ties focused on trade, connectivity, energy and economic transformation. Addressing the media during his official visit to India, Khanal highlighted India’s immense economic growth and stellar global standing, saying that Nepal sees historic opportunities for cooperation and shared prosperity. “When we look across the border, we see India as an economic powerhouse.” “We see a rising India, an India that has fundamentally and beautifully redefined itself on the global stage as a dynamic, fast-growing tech and economic powerhouse,” he said, lauding India’s global rise. “We want to engage with this India of intense aspiration, cutting-edge technology, and relentless execution. In turn, we bring the energy of aspiring Nepal.”
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal says high-level visits from Nepal and India possible in coming months
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal, who returned to Kathmandu on Sunday afternoon after completing a three-day official visit to India, said that high-level visits from both Nepal and India could take place in the coming months. During the visit, Minister Khanal held bilateral talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, where discussions covered trade, investment, infrastructure, connectivity, energy, and people-to-people relations. Speaking upon his return, Khanal said that both sides had discussed the possibility of upcoming high-level exchanges. “High-level visits from both Nepal and India may take place within the next few months. We have already discussed preparations for that,” he said.
Govt denies reports of scrapping Sunday as public holiday
The government has clarified that reports claiming it is preparing to cancel Sunday as a public holiday are utterly false. The clarification comes after several media outlets reported that the government is considering revoking the two-day weekend system (Saturday and Sunday) that is currently in place across the country for some months now. Speaking on the matter, Deepa Dahal, Press and Research Adviser to the Prime Minister, stated that the reports are inaccurate. “The government has not made any decision regarding the cancellation of Sunday as a holiday, nor is there any preparation underway on this issue at present,” Dahal clarified.
Three more arrested in ‘Nepali Bro’ wife murder case in Kathmandu
Police have arrested three more individuals in connection with the murder of a woman allegedly killed during a domestic dispute involving her husband, popularly known as “Nepali Bro,” in Tarkeshwor Municipality–6, Paiyutar. According to the District Police Range Kathmandu, the incident took place on the night of Jestha 22 at around 9:30 PM, when Kumar Thapa Magar, known as “Nepali Bro,” allegedly attacked his wife with a sharp weapon during a domestic dispute. The critically injured woman was first taken to Tarkeshwor City Hospital and later referred to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Maharajgunj, where she died during treatment.
Lawmakers seek personal aides and support staff to strengthen parliamentary work
Members of the Federal Parliament and provincial assemblies have called for the provision of personal aides and support staff to enhance the effectiveness of their parliamentary responsibilities. The demand was included in a nine-point declaration issued by the 11th Inter-Legislature Forum Conference held in Tikapur, Sudurpaschim Province. According to the declaration, participants agreed to initiate discussions with relevant authorities to arrange support personnel for members of both the Federal Parliament and provincial assemblies.
Mahendra Bhote released on bail after agreeing to repay Rs 170 million in Suryadarshan cooperative fraud case
Shiva Bahadur Gurung, also known as Mahendra Bhote, a leader affiliated with the Youth Association Nepal close to the CPN-UML, has been released on bail in connection with the high-profile Suryadarshan Cooperative fraud case in Pokhara. Bhote was released after agreeing to repay Rs 170 million in claimed liabilities and depositing a bail amount of Rs 500,000, according to court documents. The release order was issued by a bench of Judge Himalal Belbase of the Kaski District Court. Bhote had been remanded to judicial custody in 2023 for trial on charges related to the Suryadarshan Cooperative fraud case.
RSP cadres stage sit-in at party headquarters over disputed Kalaiya convention results
Leaders and cadres of the Rastriya Swatantra Party-RSP from Bara staged a sit-in protest outside the party’s central office on Sunday, demanding transparency over a dispute surrounding the Kalaiya Sub-Metropolitan City convention election results. The protest follows controversy over the outcome of the party’s municipal convention in Kalaiya, where Uma Shankar Rauniyar was elected chairperson after securing 124 votes, according to protesting members. The agitating cadres claimed that the dispute emerged after a notice was issued calling for a re-election despite the completion of the voting process and the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected office bearers.
“Shall we also investigate yours?” Sudan tells probe committee
Former Home Minister and Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) MP Sudan Gurung has said he is confident of being cleared of questions raised over his assets following an investigation. Addressing the first district convention of the RSP in Gorkha on Sunday, Gurung said he was fully prepared to answer queries related to his assets while serving in public office. He also claimed that he had resigned from the post of Home Minister to facilitate the investigation process. Referring to the ongoing probe, Gurung said he faced tough questions regarding his property but had provided clear answers. Recalling the proceedings in a lighter vein, he shared an exchange he had with members of the investigation committee.
Nepal reach Asian Games Qualifiers final with eight-wicket win over Oman
Nepal advanced to the final of the Asian Games men’s cricket qualifying tournament after defeating Oman by eight wickets in the first semi-final at the National Cricket Ground in Singapore. Chasing a modest target of 95 runs, Nepal reached 95/2 in just 9.2 overs, with 64 balls to spare. Lokesh Bam led the chase with an unbeaten 44 off 26 balls, hitting seven fours and a six. Captain Rohit Paudel remained not out on 21 off 20 balls, while opener Kushal Bhurtel contributed 20 runs. Ashif Sheikh was dismissed for one run. Earlier, Oman, who elected to bat first after winning the toss, were bowled out for 94 in 19.4 overs.
Viral videos of Indian tourists’ conduct in Nepal spark debate on public etiquette
From drying clothes on car windows and cooking on public streets to incidents of public urination and littering, several videos involving Indian tourists in Nepal have recently gone viral on social media. While the actions involve only a small number of individuals, they have triggered widespread discussion about civic sense, responsible tourism, and the importance of respecting public spaces. The incidents have also prompted many social media users, including Indians themselves, to question how travelers represent their countries when abroad. The relationship between Nepal and India extends far beyond politics, diplomacy, and economics.
Nepal committed to resolving border disputes through diplomatic means: Foreign Minister Khanal
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has said that Nepal is committed to resolving border disputes with India through diplomatic channels. Minister Khanal, who is currently on an official visit to India, said at a press conference held at the Nepali Embassy in New Delhi that Nepal is ready to address outstanding border issues through dialogue and diplomatic engagement. Responding to a question, the Foreign Minister reiterated that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal’s territory. He said Nepal has already communicated its official position on the matter to both India and China. “The current Nepal–India boundary is guided by the Sugauli Treaty of 1816. These issues will be resolved through bilateral talks and diplomatic mechanisms. We are committed to resolving the border dispute through peaceful diplomatic processes,” he said.
Gold and silver prices continue to decline
Gold and silver prices fell further in the local market today, extending their recent downward trend. According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Federation, the price of gold dropped by Rs 1,000 per tola, bringing it down to Rs 308,000 per tola. Silver also declined, falling by Rs 335 per tola to Rs 4,895 per tola. Last Friday, gold was traded at Rs 309,000 per tola, while silver was priced at Rs 5,230 per tola. On Thursday, gold had been traded at Rs 311,100 per tola. In the international market, gold was trading at around $4,500 per ounce on Sunday, while silver was priced at approximately $77 per ounce, according to international media reports.
One killed, two injured in jeep accident in Achham
One person was killed and two others were injured in a jeep accident at Kamalbazar Municipality-7 in Achham district today. The deceased has been identified as 34-year-old Karna Bhat, a local resident. Seriously injured in the accident, he was rushed to the District Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment, according to Deputy Superintendent of Police Om Prakash Khanal. The jeep (Se 1 613), driven by 26-year-old Pushpa Budha, veered off the road and plunged around 200 metres down a slope. The injured have been identified as 13-year-old Min Bahadur Bhat, son of the deceased, and 30-year-old Badri Bhat. Both have been referred to the Provincial Hospital in Surkhet for further treatment. Police have taken the driver into custody and are investigating the incident.
Govt committed to strengthening public health system: Health Minister Mehta
Minister for Health and Food Hygiene Nisha Mehta has said that the government is committed to strengthening public health systems to address foodborne diseases, describing them as a serious public health challenge. Issuing a message of best wishes on the occasion of World Food Hygiene Day today, Minister Mehta said the government is focused on improving public health through ensuring food safety. She said the implementation of the Food Hygiene and Standards Act, 2081, has been given high priority to strengthen food safety and hygiene standards in the country. The minister further stated that efforts will be intensified to strengthen food testing laboratories, expand risk-based market monitoring, and advance necessary policy reforms.
Koshi government seeks suggestions on scrapping Sunday holiday
The Koshi provincial government is considering reducing public holidays to a single weekly day off and has sought suggestions from stakeholders and the general public on the proposal. Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki has sought public feedback through social media on the possibility of maintaining a six-day working week across ministries and subordinate offices. He said the current system of two weekly holidays (Saturday and Sunday) appears impractical and raised the question of whether a single-day weekend on Saturday would be more suitable. Chief Minister Karki also said that a five-day working week has not yielded expected results in terms of service efficiency or reductions in administrative costs, fuel consumption, and overall expenditure.
World Food Safety Day observed today
The ‘World Food Safety Day’ was observed globally today (June 7) with the theme “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.” This campaign aims to raise awareness about the severe impact of foodborne illnesses and promote evidence-based strategies for prevention. Recent WHO estimates reveal that children under five years old are nearly three times more susceptible to foodborne illnesses compared to older children and adults. Despite representing only 9% of the global population, this age group accounts for nearly one-third of all foodborne disease cases, particularly deadly diarrheal diseases. Additionally, exposure to chemical hazards such as methyl mercury and lead poses significant risks to children’s neurological and developmental health.
Raja Shakya elected RSP Kathmandu District President
Raja Shakya has been elected as the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Kathmandu District President. Shakya was elected after defeating another candidate, Suresh Sapkota, in the district convention. Shakya, who was elected from the first convention, was previously the chair of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 8. Rabindra Gautam has been elected vice president, Shantaman Maharjan secretary, and Shaurabh Basnet joint secretary. Out of 522 delegates at the convention, 438 votes were cast.
RSP Parbat elects Pun as new chair
The first district convention of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has elected Jal Bahadur Pun as its chair. Sharada Kumari Sharma has been elected vice president of the 10-member working committee, while Rameshwar Gautam was chosen as secretary and Narayan Prasad Bhusal as joint secretary. Other members of the committee include Dinesh Basyal, Birendra Bikram Malla Thakuri, Rasila Paudel Malla, Pratima Sharma Subedi, Thakkar Prasad Sharma, and Ganesh Prasad Sharma. Representatives from all 61 wards of the district attended the convention.
2,256 drivers penalized for violating traffic rules
In the past 24 hours, 2,256 drivers have been penalized for violating traffic rules. This has generated Rs 491,500 in revenue for the state exchequer. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, action was taken against 151 people for consuming intoxicants, 111 for illegally sharing rides, 142 for violating traffic signals, and 230 for speeding. Similarly, action was taken against 33 people for not following lane discipline, 193 for honking in prohibited areas, 117 for parking vehicles on roadsides, 118 for driving on one-way streets, and 1,161 for violating other traffic rules.
Flood-blocked Diktel–Chakhewa Bhanjyang road comes into operation
The Diktel–Chakhewa Bhanjyang road, which had been obstructed by floods, has been restored to operation. The road connecting Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality-8, Bubalung Pankhukhola, was rendered impassable due to severe flooding. Following heavy rains on June 5, the Diktel–Chakhewa Bhanjyang section of the Mid-Hill Highway was obstructed. With the reopening of the flood-affected road at Pankhukhola, vehicle movement between Bhojpur and Kathmandu via Diktel has resumed.
Adhikari elected RSP district chair by single-vote margin
Yadunath Adhikari has been elected district chair of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Kaski. In the voting concluded on Saturday, Adhikari defeated his nearest rival, Ekraj Neupane, by a single vote. Adhikari secured 115 votes, while Neupane received 114. Of the 290 eligible voters, 233 cast their ballots. Similarly, Chin Bahadur Gurung was elected vice-chair of the convention, while Bishwaraj Paudel was chosen as secretary and Sujan Bastakoti as joint secretary. The committee will nominate its treasurer at a later date.
Trekking route built through challenging terrain in Ruby Valley
A new trekking route has been constructed through rugged terrain leading to the popular tourist destinations of Kalo Daha and Seto Daha in Ruby Valley Rural Municipality, Dhading. The trail, developed across a geographically remote and challenging landscape, extends through Kalo Daha and Seto Daha to Harchi Pass near the Nepal-China border, according to local guide Markus Tamang. Residents of Lingjo village in Ward No. 1 of Ruby Valley Rural Municipality voluntarily contributed 21 days of labor to construct the trekking route from Babil Kharka to Harchi Pass, situated at an altitude of 4,650 metres.
Water shortage forces students in Tanjakot to spend days worrying about water
Baulyana in Tanjakot Rural Municipality-1, Humla, is facing a severe drinking water shortage after a water source dried up following road construction carried out using a dozer. According to Milan Khadka of Kandagaun, Tanjakot-1, residents of the settlement are currently forced to carry drinking water uphill from Pumkhola and Kandagaun. He said, “In Bhaisewaj village, every student goes to school each morning carrying an empty gallon. They fill it with water and bring it home after school is dismissed in the evening.” Lokendra Khadka, a student at the local school, said that carrying water has become a greater concern than studying. “Even during afternoon classes, I keep worrying about how I will carry a gallon of water home in the evening and provide water for my family,” he said.
Study report highlights need to improve healthcare access for senior citizens in Lomanthang
A study has highlighted significant gaps in healthcare access, nutrition, and emotional wellbeing among elderly citizens of Lomanthang in Mustang district. The report points to widespread outmigration of younger family members for work and education, which has weakened traditional family support systems. According to the findings, 71 families were found to be living without their children, with many elderly residents reporting feelings of loneliness and abandonment despite receiving financial remittances. The findings were presented in Kathmandu on Saturday by the Nexus Institute of Research and Innovation (NIRI), Nepal, in collaboration with the Kalasha Foundation, Switzerland.
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