KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
EC announces completion of preparations for March 5 HoR polls
The Election Commission (EC) has announced that all preparations for the House of Representatives (HoR) election scheduled for March 5 have been completed. Speaking at a weekly press briefing on Friday, EC Joint Secretary and Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai said ballot papers, ballot boxes and other essential election materials have already been transported to all 77 districts. Voter education programs are currently being conducted in all 6,743 wards across the country’s 753 local levels. The programs, facilitated by volunteers, will conclude on February 29. Meanwhile, government employees and security personnel assigned to election duties have begun departing for their respective polling stations.
HoR polls: Sale and consumption of alcohol banned until final results
With six days remaining for the election to the House of Representatives (HoR), the Election Commission (EC) has imposed a ban on the sale, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages from today until the final results are announced. The decision was taken in line with the election security plan endorsed by the High-Level Election Security Committee formed under Section 3 of the Election Security Management Directive, 2078. Following an overall security assessment and recommendations related to maintaining law and order, the Commission has directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to enforce the measure. Chief District Officers and security agencies in all districts have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the Election Code of Conduct.
Govt committed to holding free and fair elections: Home Minister
Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has pledged that the current interim government will conduct the upcoming elections in a free, fair and fear-free environment. During a visit to Gaur, the district headquarters of Rautahat, to assess the peace and security situation ahead of the House of Representatives elections, Aryal said the government was formed with the primary goal of ensuring credible elections. Urging voters to participate in the polling process on March 5, the Home Minister said effective security arrangements have been put in place to guarantee a safe environment. He assured that citizens would be able to exercise their political rights freely and warned that anyone violating the law would face strict action. “We are here in a facilitating role. However, anyone who commits wrongdoing or violates the law will be brought to justice and necessary action will be taken,” Aryal told journalists after instructing security officials in Rautahat. He added that clear legal provisions exist to take action against election-related offenses under the Election Commission’s code of conduct.
Lamichhane alleges same forces responsible for Singha Durbar fire and shooting of children
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has claimed that the same forces were behind both the shooting of children and the burning of Singha Durbar. He made the statement while addressing an election rally in Chitwan on Friday, emphasizing corruption and accountability as central issues in his campaign. Referring to past incidents, Lamichhane alleged that those who turned Singha Durbar into a “den of corruption” were responsible for its destruction. “The reason Singha Durbar was burned is because it was made a center of corruption. Children were shot. Those who burned Singha Durbar and those who shot children are the same,” he said. He added that his party has come prepared to fulfill what history now demands. “We are not asking anyone to change their political party. We are only asking them to change their vote. The Rastriya Swatantra Party is everyone’s party,” he said.
Deuba’s assets to be investigated first if NC forms govt: Gagan Thapa
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has pledged that if his party forms the government, the assets of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will be investigated first. Addressing an election rally in Pokhara on Friday, Thapa said a Nepali Congress-led government would investigate the assets of Deuba and other ministers who have previously held office. He said the party is committed to forming a powerful commission to probe corruption and ensure that no one in the country can engage in corrupt practices with impunity. “The country wants to be free from corruption. The first thing a Nepali Congress government will do is form a powerful commission. That commission will first investigate the assets of Sher Bahadur Deuba, who became prime minister after 2046 BS, and Gagan Thapa, who served as a minister,” Thapa said.
221,000 employees to be deployed for HoR elections
A total of 221,000 employees will be deployed across 165 constituencies nationwide for the House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for March 5. According to the Election Commission, the personnel will be mobilized at 23,112 polling centers in 165 constituencies across 77 districts, along with 143 temporary centers designated exclusively for proportional representation voting. Assistant Spokesperson of the Election Commission, Prakash Neupane, stated that nine staff members will be assigned to polling centers with more than 500 voters, while eight staff members will be deployed to centers with fewer than 500 voters.
Gagan Thapa says NC alone has strength to unite all forces
Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa has said that only the Nepali Congress possesses the strength to unite all forces and move the country forward. Addressing an election rally in Butwal on Friday, Thapa stated that his party has the capacity not only to manage internal disputes but also to work together with other political forces on national issues. “For this very reason, there is no cause not to vote for Nepali Congress,” he said, directing party leaders and cadres to reach every household and urge voters to cast their ballots for the party’s election symbol, the tree. Thapa said he has come to the people with concrete plans, from ensuring timely fertilizer supply to farmers to addressing issues such as crop damage caused by monkeys in the hills. “Do not remain confined to social media. Go door-to-door and speak openly about us,” he urged.
Chinese Ambassador meets PM Karki, discusses bilateral ties and elections
Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sushila Karki at Singha Durbar on Friday. Prime Minister Karki congratulated Ambassador Maoming on his appointment and wished him a successful tenure. She expressed confidence that he would effectively carry out his responsibilities and further strengthen the longstanding friendly relations between Nepal and China. Ambassador Maoming thanked the Prime Minister for granting time for the meeting despite her busy schedule. During the meeting, Ambassador Maoming congratulated the Prime Minister on efforts to restore peace, security and the rule of law in the country, and on preparations to hold elections in a peaceful environment. He reiterated China’s support and cooperation in Nepal’s democratic process.
Oli says govt yet to ensure fair poll environment, vows UML won’t accept electoral fraud
CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has alleged that the government has failed to create an environment conducive to free and fair elections. Addressing the ‘Ba Sanga Bidyarthi Karyakram’ organized by All Nepal National Free Students Union in Damak, Jhapa, on Friday, Oli claimed that the country was pushed into crisis after the sovereign Parliament was forcefully dissolved through what he described as destructive means. He said the UML joined the electoral process to steer the country out of the prevailing crisis. Stating that UML does not shy away from elections, Oli said the party is fully focused on the upcoming polls nationwide. “The UML will emerge as the first force in the upcoming election,” he said, adding that the party would then take the lead in resolving the country’s pressing problems. The former Prime Minister also warned that the UML would not accept any form of electoral fraud. He alleged that the government has not shown adequate seriousness in ensuring a free and rigging-free election.
Kathmandu DAO bans Holi stage shows, fairs citing election security concerns
The District Administration Office Kathmandu has prohibited the organization of stage-based musical programs and fairs during this year’s Holi festival, citing election security concerns. Assistant Chief District Officer Muktiram Rijal said the decision was taken in view of the upcoming House of Representatives election and the need to maintain security and order. In a public notice issued by the office, authorities have urged all concerned not to organize mass gatherings on open streets or public places, hold fairs and festivals, construct stages for musical events, or engage in the sale and consumption of alcohol. The notice also calls on the public to refrain from activities that contravene the election code of conduct. The administration has tightened restrictions, stating that Holi celebrations must not be used as a platform for election campaigning.
Gagan Thapa says fiery speeches alone won’t build the nation
Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa said that the country cannot progress through fiery or provocative speeches alone, urging party leaders and workers to actively engage with voters at the grassroots level. Addressing an election rally in Butwal on Friday, Thapa responded to remarks by senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party Balendra Shah, who had suggested strict measures against those failing to take responsibility for development work, including roads. Thapa said such an approach would not build the nation. “We cannot blame a pilot by beating them just because a plane did not land at the airport. We must first identify the real problem,” he said. “Why are roads delayed? The law has issues, which is why I said 41 laws need to be amended. The country will not progress if someone threatens to hang people on trees just because a road isn’t built.”
Madhesh voters show higher enthusiasm for upcoming HoR election: GEOC survey
Voters in Madhesh Province have shown comparatively higher enthusiasm toward the upcoming House of Representatives election, according to a survey conducted by the General Election Observation Committee (GEOC). The survey states that around 55 percent of voters in Madhesh Province appear more enthusiastic about the forthcoming election compared to previous polls. GEOC General Secretary Krishna Man Pradhan said the election, being held in the backdrop of the recent Gen-Z movement, is being viewed as distinct and significant compared to past elections. He noted that this is the first election following the Gen-Z movement staged on September 8, which has contributed to heightened public interest. Survey data also indicate that 79.2 percent of respondents in Madhesh Province expressed the highest level of trust in the electoral process.
Revenue Advisory Committee formed to prepare FY 2026/27 budget framework
The government has formally initiated the budget formulation process for the upcoming fiscal year 2026/27 with the formation of a Revenue Advisory Committee. The committee was constituted through a ministerial decision on February 11 with the objective of collecting concrete suggestions on revenue policy, tax structure, customs rates, revenue administration and broader macroeconomic reforms prior to drafting the budget. According to Finance Ministry Spokesperson Tanka Prasad Pandey, the committee has already begun its work under the coordination of the Revenue Secretary at the Ministry of Finance. The committee includes representatives from the government, the central bank, academia and private sector umbrella organizations. Members comprise the Head or a designated senior professor from the Central Department of Economics at Tribhuvan University, a Joint Secretary from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, an Executive Director from Nepal Rastra Bank, and two experts (an economist and a tax expert) nominated by the Finance Ministry.
Kathmandu ranks fifth among world’s most polluted cities on Friday
The capital city, Kathmandu, ranked fifth among the world’s most polluted cities on Friday. According to the Switzerland-based international air quality monitoring organization IQAir, Kathmandu recorded one of the highest levels of air pollution among major cities worldwide. Data from the organization showed that the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 158 on Friday. An AQI level of 158 falls under the “unhealthy” category, posing risks to public health. Among the most polluted cities, Hanoi topped the list with an AQI of 164, followed by Lahore at 162. India’s Kolkata and Delhi ranked third and fourth respectively, each recording an AQI of 160.
Nepali woman allegedly gang-raped in Gurugram; auto driver arrested
A Nepali woman has allegedly been gang-raped in Gurugram, India. According to Indian news agency PTI, three individuals, including an auto-rickshaw driver, are accused of sexually assaulting the woman. Police officials said the auto driver has been taken into custody and a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at the concerned police station. The victim is reported to be a 26-year-old woman residing in Kurukshetra. Indian media reported that she works in the private sector and had traveled to Gurugram to meet a friend. She later boarded an auto-rickshaw in which three other individuals were present. She reportedly regained consciousness in a room at a house in the Naharpur Rupa area. She subsequently approached the police and filed a complaint alleging that she had been gang-raped by three men.
All political forces should unite to bring Constitution on right track: Nidhi
Nepali Congress (NC) leader and House of Representatives candidate from Dhanusha Constituency-3, Bimalendra Nidhi, has said that bringing the constitution back on the right track is the country’s foremost national responsibility at present. Speaking at a press conference organized in Janakpurdham today, Nidhi expressed concern over growing political instability, increasing public dissatisfaction with the system, and weaknesses in the effective implementation of the federal structure. He stressed that all political forces must unite to ensure the constitution functions as intended. He stated that stronger coordination among the federal, provincial, and local governments is necessary to address complications seen in constitutional implementation. “The constitution is an excellent document, but its effective implementation requires honesty and commitment,” he said. “We must act in accordance with the spirit of the constitution to safeguard people’s rights and accelerate development.”
RSP senior leader Balen Shah announces plan to halt vegetable imports from India
Senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Balen Shah, has announced plans to stop vegetable imports from India. Addressing the “Parivartan Udgosh Sabha” held in Bharatpur, Chitwan on Friday, Shah made the remarks while outlining his views on the district’s development potential. Speaking about tourism prospects in Chitwan, he said locals do not need to be taught how to promote tourism. “Just as Messi or Ronaldo do not need to be taught how to play football, the people of Chitwan do not need to be taught tourism,” he said. He added that the Tharu community has long been promoting tourism nationally and internationally through its culture, noting that their practices themselves serve as lessons for Nepal’s tourism sector.
Election security preparations complete in Koshi Province
All security preparations have been completed in Koshi Province for the upcoming (March 5) House of Representatives (HoR) election. Binod Ghimire, Chief of the Koshi Province Police Office in Biratnagar, said the provincial security committee has finalized all arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents during the polls. He stated that special surveillance measures will be implemented, and security personnel will be mobilized based on an assessment of sensitive and highly sensitive locations, in line with the approved security strategy. According to Ghimire, around 12,000 Nepal Police personnel, 23,000 temporary election police, and additional security staff will be deployed across the province to ensure a free and fair voting environment.
Gold price dips by Rs 500, silver edges up
Gold prices in local markets have seen a marginal decline today, while silver rates have recorded a slight increase. Compared to Thursday, the price of gold has fallen by Rs 500, and silver has gained. According to the Federation Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the retail price of one tola of standard gold is fixed at Rs 3,14,900, while one tola of silver is priced at Rs 5,740 today. On Thursday, gold was trading at Rs 3,15,400 per tola, and silver at Rs 5,725 per tola. Earlier in the week, on Wednesday, one tola of gold was valued at Rs 3,14,900, and silver at Rs 5,585. On Monday, the market saw gold at Rs 3,13,500 per tola and silver at Rs 5,595 per tola.
Ex-IGP Khapung terms BBC documentary a serious ploy to influence polls
Former Inspector General of Nepal Police Chandra Kuber Khapung has described a recent documentary aired by the BBC as a serious ploy aimed at influencing the upcoming election. Khapung, who retired on November 13, 2025, and has since been engaged in farming in his home district of Tehrathum, came into the spotlight after the BBC released a documentary related to the Gen-Z movement just days before the election. The development follows a report by Reuters, which earlier claimed that senior Rastriya Swatantra Party leader Balendra Shah was poised to become Prime Minister. A day later, the BBC published a documentary that has drawn criticism for allegedly raising questions about the election code of conduct. With only a week remaining before the election, critics have alleged that the documentary was released in a planned manner to elevate one political force while weakening another. Commenting on the issue, Khapung termed the BBC’s move a serious maneuver.
Tukucha excavation stalls after three days, Bagbazar–Putalisadak stretch left disrupted
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City has made no significant progress in its excavation drive to uncover the Tukucha River, three days after work began in the Bagbazar area. The metropolis had launched the initiative to trace and reopen the river section believed to be encroached or covered over time. However, since the initial digging, the project has seen little visible advancement. Following the road excavation, the Bagbazar–Putalisadak stretch has been left in disarray. The demolition of the roadway in one of the capital’s busiest corridors has severely affected traffic flow.
481 licensed firearms handed over in Madhes ahead of polls, 2,050 yet to be surrendered
A total of 481 licensed firearms have been handed over to district administrations across Madhes Province following a notice issued in view of the upcoming House of Representatives election. According to the Madhesh Province Police Office, the firearms were deposited after district administration offices across the province directed license holders to surrender their weapons to ensure a free and fear-free electoral environment. Police data show that 2,531 individuals across the eight districts of Madhes Province legally possess licensed firearms. However, only 481 weapons have been submitted so far, leaving 2,050 yet to be surrendered.
22 candidates in Baglung open bank accounts for election expenses
A total of 22 candidates contesting the House of Representatives (HoR) election in Baglung have opened dedicated bank accounts to manage their campaign expenses, according to the Election Code of Conduct Monitoring Committee. Out of 23 candidates running in Baglung Constituency No. 1 and Constituency No. 2, as many as 22 have opened accounts so far. Kishor Kumar Shrestha, treasurer at the Treasury and Accounts Control Office, Baglung, said candidates are required to conduct all election-related income and expenditure through the same account. He added that one candidate is still in the process of opening an account. The Election Commission has set a spending ceiling of Rs 2.9 million for each candidate in Baglung.
HoR polls: Only 11 parties and 1,670 candidates open bank accounts
The Election Commission (EC) has stated that of the 3,406 candidates who filed nominations for the House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for March 5, only 1,670 have opened bank accounts for election campaigning. Similarly, only 11 out of the 65 political parties participating in the election have opened designated bank accounts so far. According to Assistant Spokesperson Sita Pun Shree, the parties that have opened accounts include the Nepali Congress, Rastriya Janamorcha, CPN-Unified, Nepali Communist Party, Nepali Party for Nepal, Janata Samajwadi Party, Samyukta Nagarik Party, Miteri Party, Nepal Janata Sancharak Party, Nepal Mazdoor Kisan Party and Rastriya Janamukti Party. The Commission has made it mandatory to open separate bank accounts to ensure transparency in financial assistance received by political parties and candidates, to comply with expenditure limits set by election laws, and to facilitate effective monitoring.
Turdus bubul spotted in Shuklaphanta National Park
The ‘Madana Chanchar’, scientifically known as Turdus bubul (Grey-winged Blackbird), has been recorded for the first time in Shuklaphanta National Park, a biodiversity-rich protected area in the Terai. The species is typically found in mid-hill and mountainous forests, making its presence in the plains a notable event from a conservation perspective. The bird was documented during a field survey conducted by a team of ornithologists from the Bird Conservation Society of Nepal, including Hirulal Dagoura, Dilip Chand Thakuri, Suman Chaudhary and Dr. Bikal Pandey. According to the team, this is the first official record of the species within the park.
Bishnu Paudel dismisses poll projections as ‘misguided’, claims UML will emerge first in Lumbini
CPN-UML Vice Chair Bishnu Paudel has claimed that certain election projections circulated in some media outlets and on social media are driven by wrong intentions and do not reflect ground realities. Speaking at an interaction program with journalists affiliated to Press Chautari in Butwal, Paudel said that projections targeting Rupandehi Constituency No. 2 and other parts of the country were systematically disseminated but lack factual basis. He maintained that authentic projections from credible national and international institutions would be made public in the coming days.
Tipper driver dies from electrocution in Siraha
A tipper driver died after accidentally receiving electric shocks while operating the hydraulic lift of his vehicle in Golbazar Municipality-2, Siraha district. The deceased has been identified as Santosh Sah, 43, originally from Golbazar Municipality-3 and residing in Ward No. 2 of the municipality, according to the District Police Office Siraha. Deputy Superintendent of Police Ramesh Bahadur Pal said the incident occurred as Sah was cleaning the rear part of the tipper registered Pra 2-0-001 Ka 0045. While lifting the hydraulic, it came into contact with an overhead electricity transmission line, causing electrocution and a fire in the vehicle. Sah, who also owned the tipper, sustained serious injuries and was immediately taken to a local healthcare facility. Doctors declared him dead upon arrival.
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