KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
PM Oli returns after Spain visit
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli returned to Nepal today after concluding his visit to Spain. He landed at Tribhuvan International Airport a short while ago, his secretariat confirmed. The Prime Minister had traveled to Seville, Spain, on June 29 to participate in the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, organized by the United Nations. After attending the conference and other meetings in Seville, Prime Minister Oli flew back to Kathmandu via Doha on Qatar Airways. A 21-member delegation accompanied him on the trip.
SC verdict sparks uproar online over constitutional appointments
The Supreme Court’s long-awaited decision on the constitutionality of 52 appointments to various constitutional bodies made through ordinances by the former KP Sharma Oli-led government has sparked a fierce debate across Nepal, especially on social media. The late-night ruling from the constitutional bench delivered a split verdict, with five justices issuing three different opinions — leaving much to interpretation and generating significant public backlash. The appointments in question were made in 2020 and 2021 under a controversial ordinance that bypassed the usual parliamentary process.
Nagarik Unmukti Party withdraws support from Sudurpaschim Provincial govt
The Nagarik Unmukti Party has decided to withdraw its support from the Sudurpaschim Province government led by the Nepali Congress. A meeting of the party’s provincial parliamentary committee held in Dhangadhi, Kailali on Friday formally resolved to pull out of the ruling coalition, according to Nagarik Unmukti Party’s provincial parliamentary leader Ghanshyam Chaudhary. The decision comes a day after Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah sacked Nagarik Unmukti Party’s Rameshwar Chaudhary from his post as Minister for Industry, Tourism, Forests and Environment. The party has denounced the dismissal as arbitrary and a direct affront to democratic values.
Nagarik Unmukti Party to exit govt
The coalition government led by CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli is rapidly losing support, with the Nagarik Unmukti Party now preparing to withdraw from both federal and provincial governments. This comes just days after the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) decided to pull its support. The latest trigger for Nagarik Unmukti Party’s exit is the dismissal of its minister in Sudurpaschim Province. Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah, from the Nepali Congress, sacked Industry, Tourism, Forest and Environment Minister Rameshwar Chaudhary on Thursday. In response, Nagarik Unmukti Party has expressed strong dissatisfaction, calling the move arbitrary and a violation of democratic values.
Arrest warrant issued against JSP Madhes Chair Yadav for calling SP a ‘robber’
An arrest warrant has been issued against Ashok Yadav, Chairperson of the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP), Madhes Province, led by Ashok Rai. Yadav is accused of calling Sarlahi District Police Chief SP Yogendra Kumar Khadka a “robber” during a phone call. The District Court of Sarlahi issued the warrant on Friday following the incident. According to a source at the Ministry of Home Affairs, the warrant was issued on the charge of criminal harassment. Yadav had reportedly called SP Khadka on Thursday, complaining that police were harassing traders in Sarlahi. During the conversation, he allegedly referred to the police official as a robber.
Ramhari Khatiwada open to stepping down amid ‘cooling-off period’ controversy
Ramhari Khatiwada, Chairperson of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives, has said he was ready to step down if the party instructs him to do so. Speaking at the ongoing Central Working Committee meeting of the Nepali Congress on Friday, Khatiwada said he would resign from his parliamentary post if directed by the party leadership. “In my case, if the party asks me to step aside, I am ready,” he said during the meeting.
Madhav Nepal recalls defying Oli’s doubt to topple monarchy
Unified Socialist Chairperson Madhav Kumar Nepal has said that the decision to abolish Nepal’s monarchy was made in direct response to a challenge issued by then CPN-UML leader KP Sharma Oli. Speaking at a program held in Kathmandu on Friday, Nepal recounted a pivotal moment in 2006 when the UML was debating whether to embrace republicanism. Oli, who opposed the idea at the time, reportedly mocked the plan by likening it to “trying to reach Washington on an ox cart”, implying that the movement to overthrow the monarchy was futile.
NA endorses Finance Bill 2082 BS and National Debt Collection Bill 2082 BS
The National Assembly (NA) today endorsed two key pieces of legislation: the Finance Bill 2082 BS and the National Debt Collection Bill 2082 BS. Both bills, received from the House of Representatives (HoR) with messages, were passed without amendment and sent back to the HoR. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel presented the proposal for their endorsement, which was unanimously approved by the Upper House.
UML instructs committees to submit suggestions by mid-July
The CPN-UML has directed its provincial and district committees to submit reports with suggestions regarding the organizational report to be presented at the party’s upcoming statutory general convention. UML Publicity Department Chief Rajendra Gautam said that written suggestions on the organizational report must be submitted by mid-July. “We have instructed the provincial and district committees to send written reports with necessary suggestions on the organizational report by mid-July,” he said. “These suggestions will be discussed in the Central Committee and then taken to the general convention.”
National Assembly members demand probe into ‘cooling-off period’ controversy
Lawmakers in the National Assembly have called for a serious investigation into the controversy surrounding the ‘cooling-off period’ provision in the Federal Civil Service Bill and demanded action against those responsible. The issue was raised during the Zero Hour of today’s assembly meeting, where several members voiced concerns over the bill passed by the House of Representatives and now under consideration in the National Assembly.
Lawmakers direct TU to address poor hostel sanitation following on-site inspection
Lawmakers from the House of Representatives have directed officials of Tribhuvan University (TU) to immediately improve the deteriorating sanitation and basic management at the university’s central campus girls’ hostel in Kirtipur. The directive came after a parliamentary team conducted an inspection of the Ishwari Girls’ Hostel on Thursday afternoon and found alarming conditions inside the facility. The visit, led by the Industry, Commerce, Labour and Consumer Welfare Committee, is believed to be the first of its kind at a TU hostel. The inspection focused on the kitchen and water supply system of Block ‘E’ of the hostel.
High Court orders NMA general secretary to appear in court over contempt allegations
The Patan High Court has directed Dr. Sanjeev Tiwari, General Secretary of the Nepal Medical Association (NMA), to appear in person within seven days in connection with a contempt of court case. The joint bench of Justices Shyakumar Bhattarai and Hemanta Rawal issued a show cause order during a preliminary hearing on a petition filed by the Consumer Welfare Protection Forum. The court has asked Dr. Tiwari to explain why he should not be held in contempt and to provide clear justification and evidence in his defense.
Gold and silver artisans protest luxury tax on gold
The Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers and Artisans Struggle Committee staged a demonstration on Wednesday demanding the immediate removal of the two percent luxury tax imposed on gold. The protestors, which included goldsmiths, traders, and consumers, also called for the cancellation of the 13 percent value-added tax (VAT) levied on diamonds, precious stones, and jewelry. Additionally, they urged the government to introduce a new, inclusive law that safeguards the rights and livelihoods of consumers, employees, artisans, and business owners.
Citizenship Bill should be passed without delay: NA Vice-Chair Ghimire
National Assembly (NA) Vice-Chair Bimala Ghimire has stressed the need for the prompt passage of the bill to amend the Citizenship Act, 2063. Speaking at an interaction program on the Citizenship Bill organized by the Forum for Women, Law and Development (FWLD) in Kathmandu today, Ghimire said the bill should move forward with necessary amendments to ensure it aligns with constitutional provisions. She also urged National Assembly members to actively engage in discussions on the bill.
One killed, four injured in lightning strike
One person was killed and four others injured in a lightning strike that occurred in Bheriganga Municipality-8, Surkhet, on Friday. According to the District Police Office, 27-year-old Dil Bahadur Shahi died around 3:00 p.m. while undergoing treatment at Mehelkuna Hospital. He was struck by lightning while working in a paddy field belonging to a local resident, Bir Bahadur Thapa.
All driver’s license services suspended due to system issues
Driver’s license services have been suspended due to problems in the system. The Department of Transport Management issued a notice on Friday, informing the public about the disruption. “Since July 4, a technical issue has been observed in the driver’s license system at the department, and efforts are underway to resolve it. Therefore, all services related to driver’s licenses—including the EDL system, online application system, and essential license system—will remain closed until further notice,” the Department stated in the notice.
35 new COVID-19 cases reported in a week
COVID-19 cases are on the rise again in Nepal, with infections recently being reported in multiple districts across the country. According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), COVID-19 has been detected in 31 districts from January 1 to July 3, 2025. A total of 249 cases have been confirmed so far, with 35 cases reported in the past week alone. In the last 24 hours, three new infections have been confirmed, and one person has died from the virus.
Discouraging federalism, inclusion, and proportional representation will lead to injustice: Minister Gurung
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung has warned that discouraging federalism, proportional representation, and an inclusive system would result in injustice for the people. Speaking at an extended meeting of central office bearers and secretariat members of the Democratic Indigenous Nationalities Federation in Godavari, Lalitpur, Minister Gurung emphasized that the national slogan “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepalis” should not remain a mere slogan.
Tourists decline in Sauraha with arrival of monsoon season
Deepak Bhattarai, who has been in the tourism business in Sauraha for 25 years, says he has never seen the town as deserted during the monsoon season as it is this year. While tourist activity typically slows down during the rains, this is the first time he has experienced an almost complete absence of foreign visitors. Bhattarai, outgoing chairman of the Regional Hotel Association, reports that hotel occupancy currently stands at just 5 to 10 percent. While Fridays and Saturdays see a slight increase to around 10 percent, occupancy drops to as low as 5 percent on other days. In previous years, about 30 percent occupancy was common during this season.
Finance Minister asks Malaysian investors to explore opportunities in infrastructure and tourism in Nepal
Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel has called on Malaysian investors to expand their investment in Nepal’s infrastructure and tourism sectors, citing favorable conditions and government readiness to support foreign investment. Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the Malaysia-Nepal Business Council currently visiting Nepal, Minister Paudel said that Nepal offers promising prospects, especially in physical infrastructure and tourism, and encouraged the private sector to take advantage of the investment-friendly environment.
Individuals can bring up to $5,000 from India without declaration: Finance Minister
Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel informed Parliament on Friday that individuals entering Nepal from India can legally bring up to USD 5,000 (or equivalent) without a customs declaration. Speaking during a meeting of the Finance Committee under the House of Representatives held in Singha Durbar, Minister Paudel said that anyone wishing to bring in more than that amount must declare it at customs, with a maximum limit of INR 600,000 allowed if declared properly. To facilitate tourists visiting Nepal, he also said that arrangements have been made to allow digital payments — such as QR code or card-based transactions — up to a certain limit.
Youth killed in crocodile attack in Chitwan
A 27-year-old man lost his life in a crocodile attack while fishing in the Budhirapti River in Chitwan district on Thursday night. According to the District Police Office, Chitwan, the victim has been identified as Abhisek Majhi, a resident of Chitrasari in Ratnanagar Municipality-8. He had gone to the river for fishing with a friend when the crocodile attacked him. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rabindra Khanal confirmed the fatal incident and said further investigation is underway. The tragic encounter highlights the ongoing risks faced by locals who frequent rivers in areas bordering Chitwan National Park, a known habitat for mugger and gharial crocodiles.
One killed in motorcycle accident in Hetauda
A motorcyclist died in an accident on Rapti Road in Hetauda Sub-metropolitan City-10, along the East-West Highway. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Shyam Aryal, spokesperson for the District Police Office, 45-year-old Dipendra Kumar Jha of Janakpur Sub-metropolitan City-4, Dhanusha, sustained serious injuries in the accident on Thursday night and died during treatment.
Egg prices approach cost as production declines
With a drop in egg production caused by extreme heat, egg prices have now risen close to the cost of production—offering some relief to farmers who have long been operating at a loss. The Nepal Layer Poultry Farmers Association has set new support prices based on rates recently issued by major agricultural farms involved in egg production. Effective today, the Association has fixed the price of a crate (30 eggs) of large eggs at Rs 495 and medium eggs at Rs 465.
Heavy vehicles banned on Karnali Highway after road collapse
The movement of heavy vehicles along the Karnali Highway has been temporarily suspended following the collapse of a road section at Gothebhir in Tilgufa Municipality-6, Kalikot district, early this morning. According to the District Police Office, Kalikot, the decision to halt heavy vehicle traffic was made immediately to ensure passenger safety.
Govt prioritizing systematic reform of transport sector: Minister Dahal
Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal has said that making the transport sector more systematic is a top priority for the government. To achieve this, the government is focusing on policy reforms and their effective implementation. Speaking at the inauguration of a building constructed by the Nepal Tipper and Truck Entrepreneurs Committee in Chandragiri Municipality-7 today, Minister Dahal said that legal amendments related to the transport sector are also being pursued with urgency.
Tourism Minister pushes for swift passage of civil aviation reform bills
Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Pandey, has urged lawmakers and concerned stakeholders to expedite the passage of two key aviation-related bills: the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority Bill, 2024 and the Nepal Air Service Authority Bill, 2024. Speaking at a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives held at Singha Durbar on Friday, Minister Pandey said the bills are not only the government’s initiative but are also being advanced with input from the parliamentary committee, experts, and other relevant bodies.
Road expansion from Maharajgunj to Chappal Karkhana lags behind schedule
The road expansion project under the second phase of the Ring Road expansion, specifically the stretch from Maharajgunj to the Chappal Karkhana, is progressing sluggishly, raising concerns over timely completion. The project envisions expanding the road into a 10-lane thoroughfare, including service lanes on both sides. As of now, only partial work has been carried out — notably, the laying of curbstones and the construction of drainage near the Chappal Karkhana junction. Local commuters and residents have expressed frustration at the slow pace of the work, noting frequent traffic congestion and lack of proper signage or alternative traffic management. Meanwhile, road office officials have not provided a clear timeline for completion or the reasons behind the delays.
Harka Sampang refuses ADB loan, cites debt burden in water project
Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City, one of Nepal’s most water-stressed urban areas, has decided not to proceed with its long-awaited drinking water project using loans from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Mayor Harka Sampang Rai, who also chairs the Dharan Water Management Board, officially informed the Ministry of Water Supply on Thursday, urging the government to implement the project using national revenue rather than burdening the country with additional foreign debt.
Ward Office building constructed at cost of Rs 10 million
A new ward office building has been completed in Beg, Raghuganga Rural Municipality-1, Myagdi at a cost of Rs 10.5 million. The two-story structure, built to be earthquake-resistant, features nine rooms. Ward Chairperson Bil Prasad Fagami said the building was constructed through the consumer committee with a budget allocation of Rs 5 million. “We plan to add another floor to include a meeting hall using the budget allocated for the current fiscal year,” he added. Services are expected to begin from the new building in the upcoming fiscal year.
Actor Mani Kulung’s play “Haraayeko Kukur” to be staged at Mandala Theater from Saturday
The Nepali play “Haraayeko Kukur” (The Lost Dog), a social and political drama, is set to be staged from Saturday at the Mandala Theater in Thapagaun, Kathmandu. The play, written and directed by Mani Kulung Rai, who has been gaining acclaim on stage recently, will run until July 20. Mani Kulung, born in Haunchur, Rawabesi Rural Municipality-4, Khotang, and currently based in Kathmandu, said the play will be staged daily at 4:00 PM except Mondays. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the show will also be performed at 12:00 PM.
Construction of playground completed after 12 years
After 12 years of effort, the construction of a community playground in Dosalle, Annapurna Rural Municipality-7, has finally been completed. Initiated by the Orange Youth Club in 2015 BS, the project reached completion in the current fiscal year 2025/26. According to Prem Paija Pun, chairperson of the Consumers’ Committee, the project faced long delays due to limited financial resources. “What was once a wasteland has now been transformed into a functional playground,” he said.
‘Kanti Lake’ a destination for local and migratory birds
Once used primarily for irrigation, Kanti Lake in the heart of Nepalgunj has evolved into a haven for birds, both native and migratory. Surrounded by blooming lotus flowers, this scenic man-made lake now serves as a vital habitat and breeding ground for various bird species, attracting avian visitors from across the globe. According to experts, Kanti Lake holds high ecological value and could be developed into a dedicated bird park or birdwatching site.
Rawabesi farmers earn nearly Rs 10 million from litchi sales
Farmers of Rawabesi Rural Municipality, Khotang have earned nearly Rs 10 million from litchi sales this season. A total of 184 metric tons of litchi were produced, with the highest yield—88 metric tons—recorded in Kubinde-1, one of the six wards in the municipality. According to Uddhav Bastola, head of the agriculture department at the rural municipality, litchi cultivation across 11 hectares in Kubinde has started bearing fruit.
Concrete bridge constructed over Chirkhuwa River in Bhojpur
A 20.60-meter-long concrete bridge has been constructed over the Chirkhuwa River at a cost of Rs 56.2 million. The bridge, built by the Infrastructure Development Office with funding from the Koshi Province Government, has directly benefited residents of Shadananda Municipality and Salpasilicho Rural Municipality. According to Rajanraj Reddy, Chief of the Infrastructure Development Office, the bridge connects Wards 1 and 5 of Shadananda Municipality, eliminating the need for locals to travel 11 kilometers to reach Dingla.
Beautification of Manimandap area nears completion
The beautification of the historic Manimandap area in Janakpurdham is nearing completion, as part of efforts to promote the city as a wedding destination. According to Binod Yadav, Chief of the Urban Development and Building Construction Office, Janakpurdham, about 95 percent of the work—spanning around four bighas—has been completed. The beautification is being carried out at five sites, including Manimandap, with a total investment of over Rs 189.1 million. Among these, the Manimandap project has received the largest share of funding. Once completed, it will be handed over to the Janakpurdham Sub-metropolitan City.
KMC launches public awareness to control cholera
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has launched a public awareness campaign across all 32 wards to prevent and control the spread of cholera. As part of the initiative, drinking water samples from residents will be tested, according to Rishi Bhusal, the metropolis’s focal person for epidemic prevention and control. He said the campaign was initiated in anticipation of a potential rise in cholera cases, as this year’s monsoon began earlier than usual and regular rainfall continues.
33 Film Development Board services now available online
The Film Development Board has made 33 of its services available online. Announced on the occasion of the board’s 25th anniversary, the services now accessible digitally include film registration, screening recommendations, hall licensing, and approvals for organizing film festivals—eliminating the need for physical visits to the office. The Board has also launched a mobile application called Box Office 2 Cinepa. With this new system, office visits are no longer required, and the film business has become more transparent, said Board Chairperson Dinesh DC.
Over 400,000 Siplikan plants sold in a year
Kabiraj Khanal, the operator of Om Krishi Farm in Ekle Khet, Shuklagandaki Municipality-2, Tanahun, has sold 450,000 Siplikan plants this year alone. Siplikan, a plant known for its diverse medicinal properties and typically found in hilly regions, is vanishing from many parts of Nepal. However, Khanal has been cultivating it commercially for the past five years and generating income while also contributing to its conservation. According to ancient texts, sages like Chyawan and Garga used this plant for body purification, meditation stability, and longevity.
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