KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.
Parliament Forms Seven-Member Committee Led by Congress to Probe Federal Civil Service Bill Cooling-Off Period Issue:
A seven-member parliamentary investigation committee, led by the Nepali Congress, will be formed to examine irregularities in the State Affairs Committee’s report that allegedly undermine the two-year cooling-off period provision in the Federal Civil Service Bill. Speaker Dev Raj Ghimire and chief whips of the five major parties agreed on the committee’s formation and leadership during a meeting. According to CPN-UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartuala, the committee will include two members each from Congress and UML, and one member each from the Maoist Centre, Rastriya Swatantra Party, and Rastriya Prajatantra Party. The committee will study, investigate, and identify weaknesses and responsible individuals. The formal announcement is expected on July 7.
Nepal Wins ACC Men’s U16 East Zone Cup 2025, Defeats Singapore by 2 Wickets:
Nepal clinched the ACC Men’s U16 East Zone Cup 2025 title with a thrilling 2-wicket victory over Singapore on Saturday at YSD UKM Oval, Malaysia. Batting first, Singapore was bowled out for 113 runs in 40.5 overs, with Rohan Austin Arun top-scoring with 23 runs. Nepal’s bowlers Abhay Yadav and Shushil Bahadur Rawal led the attack with three wickets each. In reply, Nepal chased the 114-run target in 29 overs, scoring 117/8. Joy Thapa contributed 24 runs, supported by Shiwansh Bajgain and others. Despite Kapish Venkatraman’s four-wicket haul for Singapore, Nepal held firm to lift the title.
PM Oli Sends Best Wishes to Nepal Women’s Football Team Ahead of Final Against Uzbekistan:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli extended his best wishes to the Nepal Women’s National Football Team ahead of their final match against Uzbekistan after defeating Sri Lanka. Speaking virtually, PM Oli praised the team’s performance and expressed confidence in their victory, calling it a potential turning point in Nepal’s women’s football history. He assured full government support for sports development and shared his vision of building a world-class stadium inspired by his recent visit to Real Madrid. ANFA officials and sports leaders thanked the PM for his encouragement, highlighting his dedication to uplifting Nepal’s sports infrastructure and international presence.
Five Communist Parties Unite to Launch Anti-Israel Protest Campaign in Nepal:
Five communist parties in Nepal—excluding CPN-UML—have joined hands to launch a coordinated campaign opposing Israeli actions in the Middle East. The decision was made during a joint meeting at the CPN (Maoist Centre) headquarters in Paris Danda on Saturday. Parties involved include the CPN (Maoist Centre), CPN (Unified Socialist), CPN (Biplav), CPN (Revolutionary Maoist), and CPN (Masal). They condemned Israel’s actions as “brutal massacres” against Palestinians and announced plans for unified protest programs. Senior leaders, including Prachanda, Madhav Kumar Nepal, Mohan Bikram Singh, and CP Gajurel, also discussed forming a coordination mechanism and expanding alliances for the campaign.
Deuba Credits Late Girija Prasad Koirala for Nepal’s Transition to Republic:
Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba has credited former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala as the key figure behind Nepal’s transition to a republic. Speaking at a program organized by the Jai Nepal Foundation in Kathmandu, Deuba said Koirala’s courage and leadership made the republican system possible at a time when it was unimaginable. He praised Koirala as a “true fighter” who dared to challenge the monarchy and unite forces for change. Although the first Constituent Assembly failed to draft a constitution, Deuba highlighted that it declared a republic on its first day—an achievement he attributes mainly to Koirala.
Dr. Shekhar Koirala Urges Sher Bahadur Deuba to Lead Government Immediately:
Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala has called on party President Sher Bahadur Deuba to take immediate leadership of the government. Speaking at a program commemorating the late Girija Prasad Koirala’s birth anniversary in Kathmandu, he emphasized the need for positive thinking and swift action. Dr. Koirala also stressed the importance of modernizing agriculture, urging farmers to adopt new methods rather than traditional farming. Highlighting the government’s withdrawal of subsidies on sugarcane due to financial constraints, he criticized ministers’ frequent foreign trips and advocated for better support to farmers. He encouraged fostering a “we can” mindset for Nepal’s progress.
Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut Takes Responsibility but Rejects Directing Judges:
Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut has acknowledged responsibility for questions raised about his conduct but emphasized he cannot direct other judges in their judicial decisions. Speaking at the book launch of “Suneko Shasan: Bhogeko Prashasan” in Kathmandu, Raut said that judicial independence requires judges to deliberate without external influence or directives. He stressed the importance of assessing intent carefully, linking it to personal integrity. While he accepts accountability, he firmly stated that he will not retract his stance and that the judiciary must function through collective deliberation among judges rather than unilateral dictation.
Nepal’s Supreme Court has upheld the appointment of 52 officials through ordinance without offering clear constitutional or legal reasoning, raising serious concerns over separation of powers, rule of law, and judicial accountability. The decision lacks analysis of the necessity, legality, and limits of ordinance use, especially for constitutional bodies. International norms emphasize judicial transparency and active oversight of executive overreach, yet Nepal’s court remained silent. Such passivity undermines public trust, constitutional supremacy, and democratic accountability. As the guardian of the Constitution, the Court must offer reasoned judgments—particularly in matters with long-term institutional impact like constitutional appointments through ordinances.
Madhav Kumar Nepal Calls for Leftist Unity to Build Just and Equitable Society:
CPN (Unified Socialist) Chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal emphasized the need for unity within the communist movement to build an equitable society that ensures justice and rights for all. Inaugurating his party’s 5th district student convention in Kathmandu, the former Prime Minister called for an end to internal contradictions within the left. He stressed that Nepal’s communist party was formed for national transformation and social justice. Nepal highlighted the importance of consolidating scattered leftist forces and warned that corruption is hindering governance reforms. Denouncing a legal case against him as politically motivated, he expressed faith in the judiciary for justice.
Politics Must Be Purified First for National Reforms, Says Dr. Baburam Bhattarai:
Former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai emphasized that meaningful reforms in any sector are impossible without first purifying Nepal’s political environment. Speaking at a program organized by the Chandralok Foundation in Kathmandu, Bhattarai said that politics has become deeply polluted and must be cleaned up to enable broader national progress. He argued that once politics is reformed, laws, policies, and even the constitution can be improved. Bhattarai also underlined the importance of involving the private sector in education reform, stating it cannot be excluded. The event also honored individuals from various sectors for their notable contributions.
Nagarik Unmukti Party Quits Government, To Sit in Opposition from July 7:
The Nagarik Unmukti Party (NUP) has decided to withdraw from the federal government and shift to the opposition. Party Chair Ranjita Shrestha informed Nepalkhabar that the decision was made during Saturday’s parliamentary party meeting. She said they will formally notify the Speaker and the Prime Minister, and begin sitting in opposition starting from the July 7 (23rd Ashad) parliamentary session. Arun Chaudhary, who serves as the Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation from NUP, will submit his resignation to the Prime Minister. The party had already exited from provincial governments earlier.
Gagan Thapa Urges Youth to Stay Hopeful, Critically Engage with Nepal’s Progress:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa acknowledged that while Nepal has made some progress, much remains to be done. Speaking at a Kathmandu event, he urged people not to believe alarmist claims that the country is in danger or ruined. Thapa advised students to base their opinions on study, analysis, and review rather than rumors. He encouraged appreciation for positive developments and constructive questioning of shortcomings. Addressing youth, Thapa emphasized their responsibility to lead future change and delivered a motivational message: “Don’t tire, don’t run away, don’t fall—stand firm, learn, question, critique, and enjoy life.”
NEPSE Surges 108 Points on Hopes of Flexible Monetary Policy, Investors Gain Rs 181 Billion:
The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) rose by 108.22 points last week, closing at 2,703.96 as investors anticipated a flexible monetary policy in the upcoming fiscal year. The market opened at 2,595.74 and remained positive throughout the week, reaching a high of 2,716.93 points. All 13 sector indices rose, with life insurance gaining the most (8.50%). Rapti Hydro saw the highest price increase (26.23%), while Mid Solu Hydropower dropped the most (5.69%). Weekly turnover rose by 13.73% to Rs 39.91 billion. Market capitalization grew to Rs 4.505 trillion, delivering a capital gain of Rs 181 billion for investors.
Dayahang Rai to Star in Director Maotse Gurung’s Upcoming Film ‘Pensionpatta’:
Actor Dayahang Rai will play the lead role in director Maotse Gurung’s upcoming film Pensionpatta, marking their second collaboration after Dayarani. Gurung, who also wrote the script, aims to present this film as a refined and outstanding cinematic work. Although the title hints at the story of a former soldier, the film focuses on the transformation of a greedy character into a generous person. Produced under Gurung’s own banner, Maotse Gurung Films, shooting is scheduled to begin in the third week of Kartik (mid-October) around scenic locations in Pokhara. Other cast members will be announced soon, according to production manager D.B. Gurung.
Actress Laxmi Shrestha of ‘Meri Bassai’ Passes Away:
Actress Laxmi Shrestha, best known for her role as ‘Apsara Aama’ in the popular Nepali satirical TV series Meri Bassai, passed away Friday night after a long battle with breast cancer. Her vibrant portrayal brought life to the character and significantly contributed to the show’s popularity. She also played the wife of famed actor Sitaram Kattel’s character ‘Khadka Ji’. Shrestha’s death has deeply saddened the Nepali arts community. Her funeral rites will be held today at Pashupati Aryaghat, according to family sources.
Title Song Released for Patriotic Film ‘Yo Man Ta Mero Nepali Ho’:
The title song of the upcoming patriotic film Yo Man Ta Mero Nepali Ho, set to release from Ashad 27, has been unveiled. The music video features lead actors Vijay Baral, Roshan Shrestha, Wilson Bikram Rai, Ayusha Samal, Buddhi Tamang, and Mitra Pradhan. The song is composed by Bikash Chaudhary, with lyrics by Shankar Adhikari ‘Ghayal’ and vocals by Kamal Rasaily. Directed by Mitra Pradhan and produced by Gyan Bahadur Pradhan, the film also stars Narayan Khati, Bhupendra Lingden, Subas Bhandari, and others. The song’s choreography by Kaviraj Gehataraj features about 200 national flags, enhancing its patriotic spirit.
New Authentic Tihar Song ‘Phirfire Putali’ Released by Kavita Khatri and Team:
A new Tihar song titled Phirfire Putali has been released through singer Kavita Khatri’s YouTube channel, featuring the collaboration of Kavita Khatri, Sumitra Koirala, and Hari Giri (Bimarshi). The song, praised for its originality amid the current trend of provocative and ambiguous Tihar songs, celebrates rustic love and organic village life. Written and composed by Sumitra Koirala, the melodious track is sung by Kavita, Sumitra, and Hari Giri, with choreography and direction by Bikram Chauhan. The music video stars Sanchita Bolakhe, Ryan Basyal, and Kavita Khatri herself, receiving positive feedback shortly after release.
Nepal Army Wins First National Women’s Five-a-Side Indoor Hockey Tournament:
Nepal Army secured the championship title at Nepal’s inaugural National Women’s Five-a-Side Indoor Hockey Tournament by defeating Sudurpashchim Province 2-0 in the final. Nepal Army reached the final after a 6-0 semifinal win over Koshi Province, while Sudurpashchim beat Gandaki Province 2-1. The tournament was inaugurated by National Sports Council Vice-Chair Dhruba Acharya at Mid Valley College, Thimi, Bhaktapur. Prize money of NPR 50,000 was awarded to the winners and NPR 25,000 to runners-up. Sudurpashchim’s Ashika SK was top scorer with eight goals, while Saraswati Tamang of Nepal Army was named Player of the Tournament. Awards were also given for best defender, goalkeeper, and emerging player.
Sudip Paudel Elected Head of Nepal Cycling Association’s New Committee:
Sudip Paudel has been elected as the new president of the Nepal Cycling Association following a general assembly held in Kathmandu on Saturday. Alongside Paudel, Sangharsha Bist was elected vice president, Ranjan Rajbhandari as general secretary, and Debendra Basnyat as secretary. Krishna Gopal Shrestha was chosen as treasurer, while members include Bibek Adhikari, Chandraprasad Chaudhary, Bal Bahadur Gurung, Deepak Babu Kandel, Ishwar Prasad Ghimire, Padam Bahadur Shrestha, Sanat Kumar Sharma, Manisha Rajkarnikar, and Apsara Basnet. The new committee was formed to legitimize and advance the previously interim cycling association committee led by Paudel.
Severe Flash Floods in Texas Kill at Least 24; Dozens Missing and Rescued:
At least 24 people have died following severe flash flooding in Kerr County, Texas, with five victims from Houston, according to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. So far, 237 people have been rescued or evacuated, including 167 by helicopter, reports CBS. Between 23 and 25 girls remain missing from a Christian summer camp that hosted over 700 children. Kerrville City Hall issued a new flood warning as heavy rains continue. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared an emergency, calling the floods an “extraordinary catastrophe,” while President Trump described the situation as “shocking.” Several counties face washed-out roads and downed phone lines amid ongoing rescue efforts.
Hamas Signals Willingness to Negotiate Gaza Ceasefire, Requests Key Amendments:
Hamas has delivered a “positive response” to US-mediated proposals for a new Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, expressing readiness to begin negotiations immediately. However, it has requested significant changes, including halting the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation aid system and a US guarantee that hostilities won’t resume if talks fail. The proposal involves phased Israeli troop withdrawals, a 60-day ceasefire, and staggered release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. While US President Trump welcomed Hamas’s response, Israel’s government has not commented, with Prime Minister Netanyahu insisting the war will continue until all hostages are freed and Hamas’s capabilities dismantled.
