KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Gen-Z protest: NHRC releases report, recommends action to govt
he National Human Rights Commission has released its investigation report on alleged human rights violations during the youth-led Gen-Z protests held on September 8 and 9, 2025, and issued a series of recommendations to the government. Issuing a press note on Wednesday, the commission said its decisions and recommendations have already been forwarded to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. The commission had earlier formed a special committee to investigate the incidents. Based on the report submitted by the committee, the commission’s meeting held on May 26, 2026, endorsed the decisions and recommendations.
NHRC raises serious questions over Army’s role during Gen-Z protests
A probe report made public by the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal has raised serious questions over the role of the Nepali Army during the violent incidents that took place on September 8 and 9, 2025 concluding that state security structures remained largely ineffective as unrest spiraled out of control. The report, released on Wednesday, criticized the army’s delayed mobilization, alleged inaction, and lack of cooperation during the investigation process. According to the commission, the then Chief District Officer of Kathmandu had sought assistance from the army after demonstrations on September 8, 2025 turned violent and moved beyond the control of security personnel. However, the report states that the army was not effectively mobilized in practice.
NHRC recommends action against Oli, Lekhak, Gurung and current IGP Karki over Gen-Z protests
The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal has recommended legal and departmental action against former Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli and several senior political and security officials over human rights violations committed during the Gen-Z movement of September 8 and 9, 2025. In its investigation report made public on Wednesday, the commission stated that former Prime Minister Oli, former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and former Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung were found responsible for human rights violations linked to the violent protests. The commission has recommended that the government introduce a new law to ensure legal action and punishment against political leadership involved in human rights violations.
NHRC recommends investigation against Gauri Bahadur Karki
The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal has recommended further investigation and possible action against former judge Gauri Bahadur Karki in connection with the Gen-Z protests that took place on September 8 and 9, 2025. Karki had served as coordinator of the high-level probe committee formed by the government to investigate the incidents surrounding the Gen-Z movement. According to the commission’s report made public on Wednesday, further investigation is necessary to determine whether Karki was involved in any wrongdoing related to the protests.
NHRC says Rabi Lamichhane’s prison exit was illegal, recommends investigation
The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal has recommended legal investigation and action over the unauthorized release of Rabi Lamichhane from prison during the Gen-Z protests on September 9, 2025. In its report, the commission stated that the incident was unlawful and constituted not only a human rights violation but also a criminal offense under Section 49 of the Prison Act, 2079. According to the report, the commission concluded that the prison exit occurred in violation of existing laws and therefore warrants detailed investigation and legal accountability.
Fake police social media page created ahead of Gen-Z protest: NHRC Report
A fake Facebook page impersonating the Nepal Police was allegedly created ahead of the Gen-Z movement protests in an attempt to deliberately incite violence, according to a report made public by the Human Rights Commission. The report states that students were encouraged through social media to participate in the demonstrations wearing school uniforms before the protests began. According to the report, misleading messages were circulated through the fake page claiming that police would be unable to use force against protesters if they appeared in school uniforms. The report says there was an apparent attempt to use students as “human shields,” a claim supported by statements from security agencies and details gathered after the incident.
NHRC Report: ‘TOB’ group led by Sudan Gurung incited Gen-Z Protest
The National Human Rights Commission has stated that a group allegedly mobilized under the leadership of former Home Minister Sudan Gurung played a role in inciting violence during the Gen-Z movement protests held across the country on September 8 and 9, 2025. In its investigation report made public on Wednesday, the commission said the group known as “TOB,” allegedly led by Hami Nepal Chair Sudan Gurung, turned the peaceful demonstrations violent. According to the report, the situation became tense after a biker group of around 15 to 20 individuals wearing black T-shirts marked with “TOB” and tattoos bearing the same name entered the protest site.
NHRC recommends six-month suspension for human rights violators
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has recommended that individuals found involved in human rights violations be suspended from public office for at least six months. In its latest report, the Commission urged the government to implement the provision as an interim measure to curb impunity until a new legal framework is introduced. Under recommendation section No. 1 of the report, the NHRC stated that individuals identified as human rights violators should face suspension for a minimum of six months regardless of the public position they currently hold.
Arson and vandalism began from Deuba Chowk: NHRC Report
The series of vandalism and arson incidents that took place on September 9, 2025 had started from Deuba Chowk in Kathmandu, according to a report by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The report states that violence spread across the country after a group defied prohibitory orders and security directives and launched an attack at around 11 am on the residence of the then Energy Minister. According to the report, the unrest later escalated into vandalism, arson, and looting targeting political party offices, residences of top leaders, Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, police posts, government offices, business establishments, and private properties.
NHRC faults Army Chief Sigdel, seeks action against Commanders
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised serious questions over the Nepal Army’s failure to protect Singha Durbar and the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas, during the Gen-Z protest held on September 8 and 9, 2025. In a report made public on Wednesday, the Commission recommended action against commanders responsible for the security of the country’s key administrative and state institutions. The NHRC stated that a detailed analysis of evidence collected during the investigation showed weaknesses on the part of the Nepal Army in preventing vandalism and arson at Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, and the President’s Office, which resulted in significant human, physical, and economic losses across the country.
Oli, Lekhak and Gurung cannot be punished under existing law for alleged rights violations during Gen-Z protests
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has stated that there is currently no legal provision to punish then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and former Communications Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung for alleged human rights violations during the Gen-Z movement on September 8 and 9, 2025. According to the commission’s report, although the three leaders were found to be responsible during the course of the Gen-Z protests, existing laws in force do not provide a mechanism for penal action in cases of human rights violations of this nature. The NHRC has therefore recommended the formulation of retrospective legislation to enable legal action against them.
NHRC recommends probe into 15 RSP MPs over alleged involvement in Gen-Z protests
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has recommended the government carry out a detailed investigation into 15 lawmakers of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) over alleged involvement in the Gen-Z movement. In its report made public on Wednesday, the commission has named MPs Ganesh Karki, Sulabh Kharel, Hari Dhakal, Bablu Gupta, Toshima Karki, Rajiv Khatri, KP Khanal, Deepak Bohara, Manish Jha, Jwala Sangroula, Purushottam Yadav, Sudan Gurung, Ashika Tamang, Shiva Yadav, and Amit Khanal. The NHRC stated that there are grounds for “micro-level investigation” into their roles before, during, and after the protests, based on their public statements, social media activity, media reports, and information collected by the National Investigation Department.
NHRC recommends investigation against Nischal Basnet
The National Human Rights Commission has recommended the government investigate filmmaker Nischal Basnet over his alleged involvement in the Gen-Z movement protests held on September 8 and 9, 2025. According to the commission, Basnet has been listed among individuals who should be investigated for possible roles in the human and physical damages reported during the protests. The report states that authorities should examine whether his public expressions and statements provoked demonstrators and contributed to disturbances in public peace and order. The commission’s report further recommends legal action against Basnet if he is found guilty following the investigation.
Harka Sampang boycotts House meeting over absence of Prime Minister Shah
Shram Sanskriti Party Chair Harka Sampang has boycotted a meeting of the House of Representatives, objecting to the absence of Prime Minister Balen Shah in the session to answer questions raised by lawmakers. At the beginning of the session, Sampang urged the Speaker to issue a ruling to ensure the Prime Minister’s presence in the House. He also demanded that the Prime Minister be held accountable in Parliament in line with Rule 15(2) of the House Regulations, and requested that he be expelled from the House under Rule 31(1) if his demand could not be fulfilled. Following his remarks, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal requested Sampang to remain seated, stating that the matter of the Prime Minister’s presence had been noted.
Gen-Z civic campaign demands publication of NHRC report on Gen-Z movement
The National Gen-Z Civic Campaign staged a demonstration at Maitighar Mandala on Wednesday, demanding the immediate release of a report prepared by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on the Gen-Z movement. Protesters called for the prompt publication of the report and accused authorities of attempting to suppress public voices and conceal the truth. They also demanded that anyone found guilty in the case be brought under the legal framework, regardless of their position or influence.
Nepal’s economy projected to grow by 3.85 percent in FY 2026/27
The government has made public the Economic Survey for the fiscal year 2026/27. Presenting the report at Wednesday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle said Nepal’s economy is expected to grow by 3.85 percent during the current fiscal year. According to the survey, economic growth in all provinces except Bagmati Province and Gandaki Province is projected to remain below the national average growth rate.
Nepal’s per capita GDP projected to reach $1,513 in current fiscal year
Nepal’s per capita gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to reach USD 1,513 in the current fiscal year. According to the Economic Survey released by the government on Wednesday, per capita national income is projected at USD 1,535, while per capita gross national disposable income is estimated to reach USD 2,044. The survey also shows that Bagmati Province is expected to record the highest per capita income at USD 2,644 during the current fiscal year.
NC General Secretary Ghimire says 15th general convention will be held on time
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gururaj Ghimire has said that the party’s 15th general convention will be held within the scheduled timeframe. Speaking at a press meet organised by the Nepal Press Union Morang branch on Wednesday, Ghimire said the party has no alternative but to move forward in unity and added that membership updates are being carried out to make the party more competitive. He also said the Nepali Congress will formulate its official position only after reviewing the government’s performance for its first 100 days in office.
Nepal’s fixed investment projected to grow by 18.6 percent
Nepal’s fixed investment is projected to increase in the current fiscal year, according to the Economic Survey made public by the government on Wednesday. The survey estimates that fixed investment will grow by 18.6 percent during the current fiscal year, compared to a 10.9 percent increase recorded in the previous fiscal year. According to the report, total fixed investment is expected to reach 26.26 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), up from 23.57 percent in the last fiscal year. Over the past decade, total investment and total fixed investment have averaged 34.26 percent and 28.45 percent of GDP annually, respectively.
Nepal needs Rs 755 billion additional investment to achieve development goals: Economic Survey
Nepal will require an additional investment of Rs 755 billion over the next four years to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and transition from a least developed country (LDC) to a developing nation, according to the Economic Survey. The report, unveiled on Wednesday, outlines required investments and policy reforms needed to meet the country’s development targets. According to the survey, Nepal must achieve 94.85 percent of its SDG indicators to graduate to developing country status by 2030. However, current progress stands at a score of 68.58.
World Press Council Association condemns threats and pressure against journalist Kishor Shrestha
The World Press Council Association has strongly condemned threats, government surveillance, pressure, and intimidation directed at senior journalist Kishor Shrestha. The association expressed serious concern over attempts to pressure Shrestha into revealing his journalistic sources following investigative reporting involving government officials in Nepal. According to the association, source confidentiality, press freedom, and media independence are fundamental rights of democratic journalism and are guaranteed internationally.
Digital payment usage surges in Nepal, QR transactions cross Rs 125 billion
The use of digital payment systems in Nepal has increased significantly, with transactions conducted through QR codes surpassing Rs 125 billion, according to the Economic Survey for fiscal year 2025/26 made public on Wednesday. The survey includes data up to mid-March 2026. The report states that QR-based transactions have continued to expand as more citizens shift toward digital payment methods.
Labor approvals for foreign jobs rise significantly in FY 2025/26
The number of Nepali workers obtaining labor approval for foreign employment has increased significantly compared to the previous fiscal year, according to the Economic Survey for fiscal year 2025/26. The survey shows that 690,000 workers received labor approval during the current fiscal year. Likewise, 524,000 workers renewed their labor permits during the same period. In comparison, 640,000 workers had obtained labor approval in the previous fiscal year 2024/25, while 317,063 workers had renewed their labor permits.
Increasing youth violence exposes deep social crisis
A series of violent incidents reported across the country in recent weeks has raised serious concerns over increasing aggression and intolerance among youths in Nepal. One such incident took place on May 23 in Kailali, where a gang fight erupted at a hotel in Mahendranagar. Four youths were sitting on a sofa, smoking hookah and consuming alcohol, when a long-haired boy suddenly entered and attacked one of them. Soon after, three more youths entered the hotel and joined the assault. However, the four youths retaliated, leading to a violent clash that lasted around six minutes. According to eyewitness accounts, the fight resembled scenes from a South Indian action film, with helmets and hotel objects used as weapons. The first attacker was reportedly beaten severely.
Gold price drops by Rs 1,000, silver rises slightly
The price of gold declined by Rs 1,000 per tola in the Nepali market on Wednesday compared to Tuesday. According to Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Associaition, gold was traded at Rs 290,500 per tola on Wednesday, down from Rs 291,500 per tola on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the price of silver increased by Rs 20 per tola. Silver was traded at Rs 5,080 per tola on Wednesday, compared to Rs 5,060 per tola on Tuesday.
Energy ministry moves bill on water resources, renewable energy and energy efficiency
The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation is preparing to advance a bill related to water resources, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has sought suggestions on the proposed legislation during a discussion with officials from the Department of Electricity Development and the Electricity Regulatory Commission. During the meeting, Minister Shrestha expressed commitment to preventing wastage of generated electricity and ensuring the protection of public investment.
Siruwari landslide blocks Beni–Jomsom road
The Beni–Jomsom–Korala road section in Myagdi, which connects Nepal with the Korala border of China via Mustang, has been blocked since this morning following a landslide. The road was obstructed after a landslide at Upper Baisari (Siruwari) in Raghuganga Rural Municipality-2, cutting off traffic along the 76-kilometre stretch of the Beni–Jomsom road. According to Police Inspector Sagar Timilsina of the District Police Office, coordination has been made with the Department of Roads and the Beni–Jomsom–Korala Road Project, and equipment has been mobilised to clear the debris.
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