KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
HoR election: EC brings social media under code of conduct purview
The Election Commission (EC) has brought activities on social networking platforms under the election code of conduct to ensure that the March 5 House of Representatives (HoR) election is free and fair. According to the Commission, the code of conduct prohibits individuals from operating social media accounts or creating fake pages with the intention of influencing the election or undermining its integrity. It also bans the spread of misinformation, false narratives, insults, and hate speech on social media platforms, whether generated manually or using artificial intelligence (AI). The code further restricts the modification, posting, reposting, commenting, live streaming, tagging, or mentioning of any content—published or broadcast for any purpose—if done with the intent to influence voters, with or without the use of AI tools.
62% of delegates sign in favor of Nepali Congress Special General Convention
By 7 p.m. on the first day of the Nepali Congress’s second special general convention, 62.04% of delegates had signed in support of the convention. This marks the number of delegates who have registered to participate so far. The convention is being organized by the pro-special convention group led by General Secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma.
NC proposes greater youth representation, lateral entry in party structure
At the Nepali Congress special general convention, General Secretaries Bishwa Prakash Sharma and Gagan Thapa will present organizational and political reports, respectively, during the closing session scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. on the following day. According to secretariat sources, Sharma’s organizational report proposes significant youth participation across the party structure.
Sharma: Public dissatisfaction central to special general convention
Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwa Prakash Sharma has stated that the party will analyze and discuss the layers of public dissatisfaction during the special general convention. Addressing the opening session of the convention called by the faction supporting the special general convention, Sharma committed to systematically collecting, identifying, and reviewing the complaints, grievances, and expectations of ordinary citizens. He emphasized that the Congress takes public dissatisfaction seriously.
Leaders urge party President to address closed session
Nepali Congress Deputy General Secretary Farmulla Mansoor has requested party president Sher Bahadur Deuba to attend and address the closed session scheduled for the next day of the ongoing special general convention, urging him to strengthen party unity. Speaking at the convention in Bhrikutimandap, leader Surendra Chaudhary expressed confidence that the special convention would resolve all issues within the party.
Gagan: Congress is not a party of corpses and slaves, but of the living
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has stated that the party is not for “slaves or corpses” but belongs to the living. Addressing the party’s special general convention in Bhrikutimandap, Thapa emphasized that questioning within the party is allowed and necessary, arguing that those who ask questions are also capable of providing answers.
Special general convention of Nepali Congress begins today
The Nepali Congress (NC) began its special general convention today, January 11, amid opposition from the party’s establishment faction. The convention, called by supporters of the special general convention, will run until tomorrow at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. The venue has been decorated with Nepali Congress flags, gates, banners, and promotional materials. Preparations have also been made to systematically manage rallies arriving from different parts of the Kathmandu Valley on inauguration day.
Shekhar Koirala vows to prioritize NC Unity over personal ambition
Nepali Congress (NC) leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala released a video message amid the ongoing special general convention, emphasizing his commitment to party unity and adherence to its rules, statutes, and policies. He highlighted that he has consistently worked for the Nepali Congress, even in the face of disagreements within the party. “I want to make it clear that I have no personal ambitions. Opportunities for ministerial or general secretary posts have come many times, but I have never sought them. Likewise, the positions of party president or prime minister have never tempted me,” Koirala said. “The values I have received from my family guide my life and politics. Inspired by these principles, I stand firmly for the overall unity of the Congress. While I have had to challenge some of Sher Bahadur Deuba’s working methods, I have also faced the energetic dissatisfaction of young leaders.”
Key leaders of establishment faction make appearance at NC rally
Leaders of the establishment faction of the Nepali Congress (NC) made a notable presence at the party’s special general convention, signaling their engagement despite past boycotts on Sunday. Among them, former Vice President Gopalman Shrestha, a close ally of party President Sher Bahadur Deuba, reached the venue along with several central committee members, reflecting both support and strategic visibility in the ongoing intra-party proceedings. Other leaders aligned with Deuba, including central committee members Taraman Gurung, Chinkaji Shrestha, Pushpa Bhusal, Mahalaxmi Upadhyay, Dina Sangraula, Karna Malla, Arjun Joshi, and Taranath Ranabhat, have also reached the convention.
NC can’t just live on legacy of history: Gopalman Shrestha
Nepali Congress (NC leader Gopalman Shrestha has emphasized that the party can no longer rely solely on its historical achievements. Addressing the special general convention of the Nepali Congress at Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu on Sunday, Shrestha said the party must move in line with the times. “Now we can’t just live on the legacy of history,” he stated. He noted that it is no longer possible to fight against the Rana regime, oppose the Panchayat system, lead the 1990 People’s Movement, or work to overthrow the monarchy. Instead, the focus must shift to fulfilling the aspirations of the new generation and the people. “Times have changed, generations have changed, and people’s expectations have changed. The party’s style of functioning must also evolve, and new youth leaders must be brought forward,” Shrestha said.
Kirati-Sampang meeting: Both set sights on Sunsari-1
A political meeting between former minister Sudan Kirati and Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang on Sunday has set the stage for a high-stakes contest in Sunsari-1. The two leaders discussed the country’s political and economic challenges and explored possibilities for cooperation, even as both are preparing to contest the upcoming House of Representatives elections from the same constituency. Kirati said that the meeting focused on serious discussions about the country’s political and economic crisis and potential solutions. Both leaders described the meeting as positive and agreed to continue dialogue in the coming days. During the discussions, an understanding was reached regarding cooperation between Sampang-led Shram Sanskriti Party and the Pragatisheel Loktantrik Party. While no formal alliance has been finalized, both sides have kept the door open for future political collaboration.
Gold hits all-time high, silver nears Rs 5,000 per tola
Gold and silver prices set new records in the domestic market today. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold increased by Rs 2,800 per tola today, reaching an all-time high of Rs 270,600 per tola. The Federation said this is the highest price ever recorded for gold in Nepal. Gold prices had risen by Rs 2,100 per tola last Friday after declining for two consecutive days on Wednesday and Thursday. The price stood at Rs 267,800 per tola on Friday before climbing again today to set a new record. Similarly, silver prices also surged today. The price of silver increased by Rs 210 per tola to reach Rs 4,990 per tola, which is also the highest price ever recorded in the domestic market.
Prithvi Jayanti and National Unity Day being observed today
The 304th birth anniversary of nation-builder Prithvi Narayan Shah was observed today across the country as Prithvi Jayanti and National Unity Day with various programs. As a mark of respect for his contribution to the unification of modern Nepal, wreaths were laid at the statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah in front of the western gate of Singha Durbar, as has been customary. Shah, who was born in 1779 BS, led the historic campaign to unify the Baise and Chaubise states, laying the foundation of modern Nepal. On the occasion, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) organized a tea reception and invited the Prime Minister, senior leaders of various political parties, former prime ministers, and other distinguished personalities. Prithvi Jayanti is also traditionally observed in Gorkha, the birthplace of Prithvi Narayan Shah.
President urges Nepalis to uphold sovereignty and national unity
President Ram Chandra Paudel has emphasized the vital role of ancestors in unifying Nepal, which was once divided into many small states. In a message on Prithvi Jayanti and National Unity Day, he highlighted Prithvi Narayan Shah’s efforts in building a modern Nepal by consolidating scattered states. “Remembering Prithvi Narayan Shah, we see how he unified Nepal, established national independence, and shaped a common identity. His teachings remain relevant and inspiring today,” President Paudel said.He added that these teachings guide the country in strengthening the economy, fostering patriotism, maintaining diplomatic relations, preserving culture and religion, promoting public welfare, ensuring justice and good governance, and safeguarding national unity.
President Paudel pays tribute to Prithvi Narayan Shah
President Ram Chandra Paudel paid tribute to nation builder Prithvi Narayan Shah near the west gate of Singha Durbar today. A contingent of the Nepali Army saluted the President during the ceremony. The event, organized on the occasion of Prithvi Jayanti and National Unity Day, was attended by Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal, and other government ministers, all of whom paid homage to the unification campaigner of Nepal. Chief Secretary Suman Raj Aryal, senior government officials, heads of constitutional bodies and security agencies, and dignitaries from various sectors also participated in the tribute. Prithvi Narayan Shah’s birthday, observed every year on Poush 27 (December 11), is celebrated as National Unity Day.
Singer and actor Prashant Tamang passes away
Singer and actor Prashant Tamang has passed away. According to filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani, Tamang died today at his residence in New Delhi, India. Tamang, a Nepali-speaking singer of Indian origin, rose to fame after winning the third season of the Indian reality TV show Indian Idol in 2007 and was widely popular in Nepal. He had sung numerous Nepali songs that remain well known and loved by audiences. In addition to his singing career, Tamang had acted in several Nepali films, including Gorkha Paltan, Pardeshi, and Pardeshi 2. He had been residing in Delhi in recent years, where he passed away.
Bus wreckage found in Trishuli; suspected to be missing bus from Simaltal
Bus wreckage has been discovered on the bank of the Trishuli River at Dwandrang Bensi, Aanbukhaireni Rural Municipality-5, Tanahun. Authorities suspect it could be one of the two buses that went missing in Simaltal, Bharatpur Metropolitan City-29, last year. The wreckage was found approximately 200 meters upstream toward Tanahun from the original location where the bus disappeared. Inspector Prateek Singh of the Muglin Area Police Office said locals spotted something resembling a bus while fishing, after noticing a net stuck in the river. Upon seeing the bus buried in sand, authorities immediately began excavation efforts.
Prime Minister Karki attends RPP tea reception
Prime Minister Sushila Karki participated in a tea reception organized by the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) today to mark National Unity Day and Prithvi Jayanti. The event was held at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, where Prime Minister Karki was welcomed by RPP Chairman Rajendra Lingden and other party leaders. The program was also attended by Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel, leaders of various political parties, heads and representatives of diplomatic missions in Nepal, and prominent figures from different sectors of society.
Let us resolve to build an inclusive society: Vice President
Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has called for a collective commitment to eliminate all forms of discrimination, hostility, and intolerance, and to uphold equal opportunity, social justice, and cultural respect as core values of society. Extending best wishes to all Nepalis at home and abroad on the occasion of National Unity Day 2082, Vice President Yadav said that the country can progress economically, socially, educationally, and politically only by ending discrimination and promoting inclusion and harmony. “I am confident that this day will help eradicate ethnic, class, religious, and regional divisions while fostering brotherhood, reconciliation, and a shared sense of belonging,” he said.
415 people die in disasters; snakebites and fires in last nine months
In the past nine months, a total of 415 people have died in various disasters across Nepal, while 1,595 others have been injured. According to data released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), these fatalities were caused by 11 different types of disasters since April 1. The authority has been actively collecting information on deaths, injuries, and affected families nationwide. The highest number of deaths were caused by snakebites and fires, with 96 people dying from snakebites and 69 from fires. Other disasters also contributed significantly to human loss: 37 people died in floods, 70 in landslides, 7 due to heavy rains, 44 from lightning strikes, 1 in forest fires, 8 due to windstorms, 42 from animal attacks, 35 in road landslides, and 6 in avalanches, the Authority reported.
Two killed in road accident in Dadeldhura
Two people died in a road accident last evening in Dadeldhura. The accident occurred at Kuyapani in Parshuram Municipality-9 when a tractor and a motorcycle collided head-on. The motorcycle rider, 27-year-old Naveen Saud, and his pillion rider, 35-year-old Man Jagri, both from Ward No. 12 of the same municipality, were killed, according to District Police Chief Barun Bahadur Singh. Both victims were seriously injured and were declared dead on arrival at Jogbudha Hospital. The tractor (Se.2Ta. 1474), heading towards Gaibadhe from Jogbudha, collided with the motorcycle (Ma.1Pa. 9973) coming from the opposite direction on the Jogbudha-Daiji road section.
4,527 temporary police to be recruited in Dhanusha
A total of 4,527 Election Police will be recruited in Dhanusha for the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for March 5. The District Administration Office has invited applications from eligible Nepali citizens to be deployed across the district’s four constituencies. The Election Police Recruitment, Selection, and Appointment Committee has initiated the application process in coordination with the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force. Applicants must be Nepali citizens aged between 18 and 54. The deadline for submitting applications is January 15. The Election Police will serve for 40 days from the date of appointment, or as prescribed by the Government of Nepal.
Historic Dugunagadhi draws growing number of tourists
The number of domestic and foreign tourists visiting the historic Dugunagadhi Fort in Yarmasing village of Listikot, Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality, has been steadily increasing. Located near the Nepal–China border, the historic war fort was severely damaged by the devastating earthquake of 205. It has since been reconstructed in its original form under the leadership of the Nepali Army. Spread across approximately 200 ropanis of land, Dugunagadhi stands at an altitude of about 2,200 meters above sea level. Tourists visit the site to explore history while enjoying the serene natural surroundings. Domestic tourist Amritman Shrestha says Dugunagadhi has become a favorite destination for visitors, as it offers both historical insight and picturesque views.
Person with over Rs 1 million of undisclosed source taken into custody
The Armed Police Force (APF) has taken a person into custody in Siraha after recovering over Rs one million of undisclosed cash. A team from the Armed Police Force, Nepal Border Security Force Headquarters, Siraha, was conducting a check near the main border pillar number 246, close to Dashgaja in Thadi, Bhagwanpur Rural Municipality-4, around 1 pm today. During the check, they intercepted 24-year-old Devnath Yadav, a resident of Mariktol, Bhagwanpur Rural Municipality-3, who was crossing the border from India into Nepal, the APF said. The team recovered Rs 1,003,999 in cash from Yadav, along with the motorcycle he was riding and a mobile phone. The APF has stated that Yadav, along with the recovered cash and materials, will be handed over to the concerned customs office for further action.
Milk availability increasing in Sudurpaschim
Milk availability in Sudurpaschim Province has risen to 120–130 liters per capita per year, driven largely by the commercialization of milk production. About 15 years ago, per capita availability was significantly lower. Secretary of the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives, Shankar Sah, said, “Earlier, milk was produced only for household consumption, but in recent years, commercial production has increased both availability and economic benefits.” According to him, 60,000–70,000 farmers in the province are involved in milk production, with 10,000–12,000 receiving direct employment from the sector.
First ‘Bhakka’ festival observed in Mechinagar
For the first time in Mechinagar, the Rajbanshi community celebrated the ‘Bhakka Pitha’ Festival on Sunday. The festival, organized by the Rajbanshi Social Development Committee Mechinagar in Itabhatta, Mechinagar-7, featured Bhakka made from 500 kilograms of rice flour. Dinesh Rajbanshi, municipal chairman of the committee, said the festival aims to promote ‘Bhakka’, a traditional local food, and showcase its cultural significance. Gopalchand Budhathoki, chief guest of the program, added that the festival, highlighting language, art, customs, and culture, will also contribute to tourism promotion. He noted that the Rajbanshi community has a significant presence in the city, which is home to more than 25 castes.
Comment