KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
RPP Senior Vice Chair Bikram Pandey arrested
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Senior Vice President Bikram Pandey has been arrested. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police took Pandey into custody on Friday. Bureau Chief Manoj KC said he has been brought in for investigation, adding that further details will be made available shortly. Pandey, a construction entrepreneur and former minister, was elected to the House of Representatives from Chitwan-3 in the 2079 BS elections. According to the bureau, he was arrested in connection with a financial transaction related to his construction business. He is the Chairman and Managing Director of Kalika Group.
Govt to relocate riverbank settlers, identify genuine squatters
Prime Minister (PM) Balen Shah has pledged to distribute land to squatters across the country in line with his election promises. The clarification comes amid criticism following preparations to remove settlements along the riverbanks in Kathmandu. As protests grew, the Prime Minister addressed the issue through social media, stating that no force would be used in the process. “Those living in vulnerable conditions along riverbanks in areas such as Thapathali, Gairigaun, and Manohara are being relocated safely, with full consideration of humanitarian concerns,” he said. He explained that the removal of settlements is aimed at protecting residents from recurring floods. While acknowledging that the settlements are being cleared, he reiterated the government’s commitment to providing land to genuine squatters.
PM vows permanent solution to squatter issue
Prime Minister (PM) Balen Shah has said the government will distinguish between genuine squatters and encroachers, noting that millions of squatters are spread across the country. The government has begun preparations to evacuate several squatter settlements in Kathmandu from tomorrow (Saturday), a move that has raised various concerns. Meanwhile, affected residents have taken to the streets in protest. Addressing the issue through social media, the Prime Minister said, “We will complete the identification process for genuine squatters across the country and distribute land to them as soon as possible. This government is committed to providing a lasting solution to a problem that has persisted for years.” He added that, beyond those living along riverbanks in Kathmandu, thousands of other families are also facing serious hardship. Referring to recurring flood risks, he said, “Have we forgotten the scenes of thousands of people living along Kathmandu’s riverbanks fleeing for their lives each year, leaving behind their belongings, and requiring government rescue?”
Only 2% of Kathmandu squatters genuine, majority ‘fake’, officials claim
Amid the government’s move to clear squatter settlements in the Valley, officials have claimed that only a small fraction of those identifying as squatters in Kathmandu are genuine. According to the Land Problem Resolution Commission, a total of 1,404 individuals in Kathmandu district had applied as squatters as of Thursday. However, settlements in areas such as Thapathali, Teku, and Balkhu host a significantly larger number of people claiming squatter status. Officials at the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority say their data suggests that only around two percent of squatters in the capital are genuine, while the rest are fake. Citing statistics, the authority’s legal officer Ghanshyam Paudel said many individuals claiming to be squatters actually own substantial land in their home districts.
Govt to arrange housing for genuine landless within 10–15 days, orders eviction of riverbank settlements
The government has said it will make proper housing arrangements for genuine landless people in Kathmandu within the next 10 to 15 days, even as it ordered the immediate clearance of illegal settlements along riverbanks. Issuing an urgent public notice on Friday, the District Administration Office Kathmandu directed residents living in unauthorized structures on public and government land along riverbanks to vacate the area by 7 pm on April 24. The administration stated that such settlements have long obstructed public movement, urban infrastructure development, and the natural flow of rivers in the Valley. According to the notice, demolition of the structures will begin from 6 am on April 25, with authorities set to clear all encroached land. The directive applies not only to those residing in the settlements but also to tenants and individuals running businesses in those areas.
Tension rises as government moves to clear squatter settlements along Kathmandu rivers
Tension has escalated in areas along riverbanks in the Kathmandu Valley as the government prepares to evict squatter settlements. Authorities have stepped up preparations to demolish encroached houses and structures starting Saturday morning. The move comes as part of a plan to clear settlements built along river corridors. Following a government directive, police have been issuing public notices through loudspeakers since Thursday evening, urging residents to vacate the areas. Squatter families have been asked to leave by Friday evening, with announcements continuing throughout the day. Officials said dozers will be deployed from early Saturday to remove the structures. The eviction drive is primarily focused on settlements along the Bagmati riverbanks in Thapathali, Sinamangal, Teku, and Balkhu areas.
NC postpones parliamentary party leader selection process
The Nepali Congress (NC) has temporarily postponed the process of selecting its parliamentary party leader in the House of Representatives. Party sources said the election process, which had already begun, has been put on hold for the time being. No further details on the reasons behind the postponement have been officially disclosed. After nearly a month of deadlock, the Nepali Congress—the main opposition party—was set to choose its parliamentary party leader today (Friday). A committee led by joint general secretary Prakash Rasaili Snehi, along with central member Muna Bhusal and advocate Raju Katuwal, was assigned to oversee the election. The Nepali Congress, which has 38 MPs in the House of Representaitves (HoR), was likely to witness a three-way contest for the parliamentary party leadership. Arjun Narasingh KC, Bhishmaraj Angdambe, and Mohan Acharya were expected to compete for the position.
Private sector bodies protest arrest of businesspersons, warn of impact on economy
Leading private sector umbrella organizations have expressed strong protest over the arrest of industrialists and businesspersons, stating that such actions have created fear and uncertainty within the business community. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Nepal Chamber of Commerce, and Confederation of Nepalese Industries voiced their concerns. The statement noted that at a time when the formation of a new government had raised hopes for stability and a favorable investment climate, ongoing arrests and detentions of entrepreneurs have discouraged the private sector. “The private sector, which contributes 81 percent to the economy and 86 percent to employment, is being pushed into a state of fear. This could have serious repercussions on the economy, jobs, revenue, and infrastructure development,” the statement said, urging the government to take the matter seriously.
Harka Sampang objects to government move to remove squatter settlements
Chairman of the Shram Sanskriti Party Harka Sampang has objected to the government’s ongoing removal of squatter settlements in various parts of the country, accusing it of acting in an authoritarian manner. In a statement, Sampang expressed concern that the demolition drive violates Article 37 (1) of the Constitution of Nepal, and urged the government to immediately halt such actions. He also called for proper compensation and resettlement arrangements for those affected before any eviction process is carried out. He further argued that forcibly evicting residents, destroying homes, and creating fear through the use of security forces goes against Article 16 (1) of the Constitution. According to him, such actions undermine democratic values and reflect an undemocratic approach by the state.
Ain Mahar appointed UML Chief Whip
Ain Mahar has been appointed as the Chief Whip of the CPN-UML. The appointment was made by parliamentary party leader Ram Bahadur Thapa. Mahar is a directly elected member of the House of Representatives from Bajhang district. Expressing his gratitude, he said he is pleased to receive the responsibility and pledged to carry out his duties with integrity and honesty.
Araniko Highway expansion slows as material prices surge
The expansion of the Araniko Highway section from Suryabinayak in Bhaktapur to Dhulikhel in Kavrepalanchok into a six-lane road has slowed in recent weeks due to rising construction material costs and supply shortages. The Suryabinayak–Dhulikhel segment, part of the Suryabinayak–Dhulikhel–Sindhuli–Bardibas road project, has achieved around 70 percent physical progress on the 16-kilometer stretch since work began about three years ago. However, construction activity has decelerated over the past one and a half months. Contractors cite continuous price hikes, limited availability of materials, and unfavorable market conditions as key reasons for the slowdown. Although work is ongoing, they say it is unlikely to be completed within the extended deadline at the current pace.
Stronger, more accountable democracy needed: Gagan Thapa
Nepali Congress (nc) President Gagan Kumar Thapa has emphasized the need for a stronger, more accountable, and people-oriented democracy as the way forward. In a message on the occasion of Loktantra Diwas, Thapa said such a democratic system is essential to bridge the gap between public expectations and actual outcomes. Paying tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for people’s rights and democracy, he stated that it is a shared responsibility to ensure that the achievements of democratic movements are felt in people’s daily lives rather than remaining confined to history.
Kathmandu ranks second among world’s most polluted cities with AQI 225
The air quality in Kathmandu worsened, with the city ranking as the second most polluted in the world on Friday, according to data released by IQAir. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kathmandu was recorded at 225, just behind Delhi, India, which topped the global list with an AQI of 244. An AQI level above 200 is classified as very unhealthy and poses serious health risks to the general population. Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to high pollution can cause respiratory problems, worsen existing heart and lung conditions, and increase the risk of long-term health complications. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health issues are particularly vulnerable.
Only 23 apply as landless squatters in Kathmandu despite hundreds of settlements
Despite the presence of hundreds of informal settlements in the capital, only 23 individuals have applied claiming landless squatter status in Kathmandu. According to the Land Problem Resolution Commission, as of Thursday, a total of 14 landless Dalit squatters and 9 landless squatters from Kathmandu Metropolitan City have submitted applications. Additionally, 33 individuals have applied under the category of unmanaged settlers within the metropolis. The commission said a total of 278,507 individuals from across the country have applied for land ownership claiming to be landless squatters. Of them, 98,408 are identified as landless Dalit squatters, while 180,099 fall under the category of landless squatters.
CPN-UML objects to forceful eviction of squatter settlements
The CPN-UML has expressed serious concern over the government’s move to forcibly remove squatter settlements in Kathmandu, calling the action a violation of constitutional rights and basic human rights standards. Issuing a press statement on Friday, the party said such measures against poor and marginalized communities were inhumane and insensitive, and strongly objected to the ongoing eviction drive. The UML stated that the issue of squatters is a complex social, economic, cultural, and historical problem, arguing that forced removal cannot be a sustainable or just solution. The party criticized the use of force, threatening approaches by the state, and decisions taken without dialogue, saying they are inappropriate from both humanitarian and legal perspectives.
17 doctors removed from registration after acquiring foreign citizenship
The Nepal Medical Council has removed 17 doctors from its registration records after they acquired foreign citizenship. Issuing a notice on Friday, the council said the decision was taken in line with provisions of the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2006, which do not allow continued registration of doctors who renounce Nepali citizenship and obtain foreign nationality. The council stated that the decision has been implemented with immediate effect in accordance with the Nepal Medical Council Act, 1964, and its regulations. According to the council, the deregistered doctors had obtained citizenship of countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Portugal, and India.
NC leader Purna Bahadur Khadka calls meeting
Nepali Congress (NC) leader Purna Bahadur Khadka has convened a meeting of party leaders, scheduled for April 28. According to a leader close to Khadka, the meeting will include elected office bearers, central committee members, district presidents, and available provincial committee leaders from the party’s 14th General Convention. The meeting will be held at Hotel Smart in Dhumbarahi. Khadka’s secretariat also confirmed the meeting, stating that it follows an earlier gathering held on April 19 in which Khadka met outgoing central committee members in Dhumbarahi following the Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss a writ related to the party’s official status.
SAARC member states agree on development report
Member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation have reached agreement on a regional development report. The consensus was achieved during the second meeting of the Intergovernmental Expert Group on Poverty Alleviation held in Male, the capital of Maldives, according to the SAARC Secretariat. Minister of State for Finance and Public Enterprises of Maldives, Hussain Imran Abdulla Muizzu, inaugurated the meeting, emphasizing the need to expand regional cooperation and promote economic growth. Director (Information and Poverty Alleviation) at the SAARC Secretariat, Prathama Uprety, thanked the Government of Maldives for hosting the meeting and expressed appreciation to the Asian Development Bank for its continued support in promoting regional cooperation.
Gold and silver prices decline in local market
Gold and silver prices continued to fall in the domestic market today, with gold dropping by Rs 2,200 per tola and silver by Rs 75. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold has been set at Rs 296,500 per tola, while silver is trading at Rs 4,945 per tola. On Thursday, gold was priced at Rs 298,700 per tola and silver at Rs 5,020. A day earlier, on Wednesday, gold had reached Rs 305,000 per tola, with silver at Rs 5,130.
Three absconders arrested from Central Jail Sundhara
Police have arrested three prisoners who had escaped from Central Jail Sundhara during unrest on September 8-9, 2025. They were taken back into custody on Thursday. The arrested individuals have been identified as 36-year-old Binod Kumal of Gadhawa Rural Municipality–1 in Dang, 33-year-old Prem Tamang of Likhu Rural Municipality–5 in Ramechhap, and 29-year-old Navaraj Thapa of Panchkanya Rural Municipality–9 in Nuwakot. According to Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office spokesperson and Superintendent of Police Rameshwar Karki, the trio had been on the run since their escape.
176,250 vehicle licences to be distributed within six months
The Transport Management Office, Radhe Radhe Bhaktapur, has planned to distribute 176,250 driving licences for two-wheelers and four-wheelers within the next six months. According to information officer Jiwan Basnet, the office began distributing licences on Tuesday, covering all pending licences from 2022 to 2024 and some from 2025. By Thursday, around 3,000 licences had already been issued, while nearly 100,000 licences are still yet to be printed. “We started distribution on Tuesday, issuing 800 licences on the first day and about 3,000 on the second day. Even if eight staff members work from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, we cannot distribute more than 1,000 licences a day. At this rate, it will take about six months to clear the backlog,” Basnet said.
Shishuwa–Khudikhola road upgradation completed
The 4.14 km Shishuwa–Khudikhola road in Pokhara Metropolitan City–30 has been upgraded as part of an expansion project. Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya inaugurated the upgraded road under the Urban Government and Infrastructure Project. He said efforts are underway to speed up the ongoing Talchowk–Begnas road project and directed the construction company to complete the work within the next three months. Similarly, Rupa Rural Municipality Chairperson Navaraj Ojha stressed the need to extend the road up to the Tanahun–Lamjung corridor.
Acting Chair of Squatters’ Front Pariyar arrested
Police have arrested Narayan Pariyar, acting Chairperson of the Squatters’ Front, in connection with a banking offence case. According to District Police Range Kathmandu spokesperson Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, Pariyar was apprehended in Kathmandu on Friday. “He had been absconding in a banking offence case. Our team has now arrested him and initiated further investigation,” Bhattarai said.
2,692 drivers booked for traffic violations
A total of 2,692 drivers have been taken into action for violating traffic rules across the Kathmandu Valley on Thursday and Friday. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, fines collected from the action amounted to Rs 760,000, which has been deposited into the state treasury. Among those penalized, 91 drivers were found driving under the influence of alcohol, while 63 vehicles were taken off the road due to poor mechanical condition. Similarly, 224 drivers were punished for violating traffic signals and 132 for overspeeding. In addition, 237 drivers were penalized for not following lane discipline, 47 for operating public vehicles without properly closing doors, and 78 for honking in prohibited zones. Another 40 were penalized for not using designated stops for picking up or dropping passengers. The remaining 1,780 cases involved various other traffic rule violations, the office said.
113 arrested in Chitwan ‘Sweep Operation’
Police have taken 113 individuals under control during a special “Sweep Operation” conducted in the district. According to the District Police Office Chitwan, the operation carried out on Thursday targeted drivers and individuals involved in various public nuisance activities. Those detained were allegedly involved in drug sales and consumption, creating disturbances under intoxication, and causing inconvenience to passengers by forcibly handling luggage. Others were also accused of obstructing services at government offices, modifying vehicle structures, and contributing to noise pollution.
CCTV installation begins in Thapathali squatter settlement area
Police have begun installing CCTV cameras in the squatter settlement area of Thapathali. The cameras are being set up on poles along the roadside near the settlement, according to officials. Police said the installation is being carried out to enhance security in the area.
Gyanendra Shah arrives in Pokhara, welcomed by supporters
Former King Gyanendra Shah arrived in Pokhara on Friday, where he was welcomed by a large number of supporters at the airport. Supporters gathered with musical instruments and traditional fanfare to welcome Shah upon his arrival, creating a festive atmosphere. According to sources, Shah is expected to stay in Pokhara for around two weeks. His visit has drawn public attention, with supporters turning out in significant numbers to greet him.
Honest, hopeful vision essential for nation: NA Chair Dahal
National Assembly (NA) Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal has stressed the need for an honest, hopeful, and trustworthy national vision to guide the country forward. Speaking at a program organized by the Non-Resident Nepali Association during the launch of a book by Khem Sharma in Baluwatar, Dahal emphasized the importance of building a shared national consciousness for prosperity despite differing political ideologies. He noted that Nepali citizens living abroad should not be viewed merely as a labor force, but as valuable human resources with knowledge, experience, and national potential. In this context, he highlighted the significant role of the NRNA in connecting global Nepali expertise with the country.
Sunsari police ‘Sweep Operation’: 120 taken into custody
A total of 120 individuals were taken into custody within 24 hours during a “Sweep Operation” conducted by the District Police Office Sunsari to curb drug-related activities and public disturbances. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Chandra Khadka, the operation was carried out in coordination with multiple police units to maintain peace and security. Of those detained, 115 were men and five were women. Police said 10 men and all five women were sent to a correctional facility, while 76 men detained for public intoxication and disorderly conduct were released to their families after a warning.
Nabil Bank denies claims of customer data leak
Nabil Bank has rejected allegations that it breached customer privacy and leaked banking transaction details, calling the claims baseless and misleading. In a statement, the bank said it has taken serious note of what it described as “propaganda” circulating on social media and in some media outlets in recent days, adding that such misinformation appears aimed at undermining public confidence in the banking system. Referring to a news report published in ‘Kantipur Daily’ on April 22, the bank noted that the article cited “details of banking transactions received from investigating agencies.” It argued that some individuals have unfairly targeted the bank while ignoring that the report mentioned transaction data involving multiple banks and financial institutions.
31 injured in bus accident on Prithvi Highway
Thirty-one people were injured in a bus accident that occurred this afternoon at Shera in Shuklagandaki Municipality-7, Tanahun, along the Prithvi Highway. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Shrawan Kumar BK of the District Police Office, Tanahun, the passenger bus (Ga 2 Kha 1836), en route from Pokhara to Bhairahawa, overturned on the roadside, causing the accident. Assistant Chief District Officer Deepak Regmi said all injured passengers have been taken to the GP Koirala Respiratory Treatment Center in Belchautara for treatment.
27 held in Tanahun during anti-drug drive
The District Police Office, Tanahun, has arrested 27 individuals during a “sweep operation” carried out as part of a special anti-drug campaign. Deputy Superintendent of Police Shravan Kumar BK said the operation, conducted from Thursday until today, targeted individuals involved in drug use and trafficking. According to police, one of the arrested individuals is being investigated under relevant laws, while another has been sent to a rehabilitation center in coordination with family members. The remaining individuals underwent screening, including documentation of details and background checks, received counseling, and were subsequently handed over to their families.
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