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. Here are today’s key news updates:

Nationwide Protests Scheduled for March 25 in Kathmandu: On March 25, simultaneous protests will take place in Kathmandu, with different political groups expressing contrasting views. The Socialist Front, which includes the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), CPN (Unified Socialist), Nepal Socialist Party, and a faction led by Bibekbali, will gather at Bhirkutimandap.

Meanwhile, Durga Prasain’s ‘Rastra, Nationalism, Dharma, Culture and Citizen’s Defense Movement’ will stage a separate demonstration at Tinkune. Another group led by Nawaraj Suvedi, calling for the restoration of the monarchy, will also protest, but the exact location remains uncertain. Local authorities have granted permission for the demonstrations at Bhirkutimandap and Tinkune, with coordination between the Socialist Front and the Prasain group. However, no information is available about the royalist group’s demonstration plans.

Maoist Center Condemns Kulman Ghising’s Dismissal, Calls Decision Unjust: The CPN (Maoist Center) has strongly opposed the government’s decision to remove Kulman Ghising as the Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), calling it malicious and objectionable.

In a statement, the party accused the government of acting in favor of brokers and vested interests. It warned that such decisions create psychological fear among honest administrators and demanded an immediate reversal. The party also rejected allegations linking this issue to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission agreement, calling them baseless propaganda aimed at misleading the public.

Protest Erupts in Kathmandu Against Kulman Ghising’s Removal from NEA: Supporters of Kulman Ghising, the former Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), staged a protest in Kathmandu on Tuesday in response to his removal from office.

The demonstrators, marching from Maitighar Mandala to the parliament building in New Baneshwar, carried banners with slogans like “No to Loadshedding, Don’t Remove Kulman.” The protest turned tense when demonstrators attempted to breach security barriers near Baneshwar, leading to clashes with police. The protest reflects widespread discontent over Ghising’s dismissal, with many crediting him for ending prolonged power cuts in Nepal.

Attack on NEA Bharatpur Office, Chief Assaulted: A group of 30–40 individuals vandalized the office of the Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) Bharatpur Distribution Center and assaulted the chief on Tuesday morning. The attack followed an earlier incident where the office’s digital information board was hacked with offensive messages targeting former PM KP Oli. NEA Bharatpur condemned the attack, calling for strict legal action against the perpetrators and expressing concerns over employee safety.

Government Reinitiates Discussions on Land Ordinance, Awaiting Amendments: The government has resumed discussions on advancing the land-related ordinance, with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli holding talks with coalition leaders at Baluwatar on Tuesday. However, Upendra Yadav, the chairperson of the Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal (JSP-Nepal), missed the meeting as he was outside Kathmandu.

The meeting focused on amendments to address concerns over the ordinance, which had been withheld previously due to opposition from JSP-N and the Loktantrik Samajbadi Party (LSP). Leaders from Nepali Congress, UML, JSP, Janamat Party, Nagarik Unmukti Party, and Democratic Socialist Party attended. Another round of talks is scheduled for Wednesday at 11 AM, with Yadav expected to participate.

Janamat Party and NUP Set for Merger Before April 16: The Janamat Party and Nagarik Unmukti Party (NUP) are working toward a merger set to be completed before April 16. Task forces from both parties, led by Abdul Khan of Janamat Party and Ganga Ram Chaudhary of NUP, are collaborating on key aspects of the merger.

During their discussions, they agreed to prepare separate documents for the merger, focusing on party statutes, organizational structure, and election symbol. The parties are considering Dr. CK Raut of Janamat for the chairperson position and Ranjita Shrestha Chaudhary of NUP as vice chairperson. The initial name for the merged party is proposed to be “Nagarik Janamat Party,” with the election symbol being the dhakiya. The final agreement on these issues will be reached through mutual consultation.

Deuba Affirms Nepali Congress’s Full Support for Oli-Led Government: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba confirmed his party’s full support for the government led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Speaking at the book launch of Sujata Koirala’s autobiography ‘Ma Ra Mero Sanobuba’ in Baluwatar, Deuba shared that he and Oli became friends after serving prison time together, despite having different political ideologies.

He emphasized that the friendship formed during their jail term would continue, and that Nepali Congress supports the Oli-led government. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli criticized Deuba for reappointing Kulman Ghising as the managing director of the Nepal Electricity Authority during his tenure as prime minister.

Kulman Ghising’s Removal Was a Consensus Decision-Minister Gurung: Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, stated that the decision to remove Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) Executive Director Kulman Ghising was made after extensive discussions with ruling coalition partner Nepali Congress.

During a press briefing, he said Ghising’s performance was unsatisfactory, and his explanation to the ministry’s inquiry was not convincing. The cabinet appointed Hitendra Dev Shakya as the new NEA chief. The decision has sparked widespread public protests.

RSP Declares Government’s Legitimacy Void, Joins Protests: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has stated that the current government, built on protecting corruption and middlemen, has lost its legitimacy. In a statement issued Tuesday, Acting General Secretary Kavindra Burlakoti announced RSP’s participation in peaceful anti-government protests. The party also condemned the removal of Nepal Electricity Authority’s Executive Director Kulman Ghising, calling it a move to shield vested interests. RSP asserted that such actions demoralize young and aware citizens seeking national progress.

RPP Adopts “Give and Take” Policy for Monarchy Restoration Movement: The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has adopted a “give and take” policy in its movement to restore the monarchy. Following a meeting of its Movement Steering Committee on Tuesday, RPP decided to collaborate with like-minded groups and organizations while also accepting support for its cause.

RPP Spokesperson Mohan Shrestha stated that the party will form alliances or working partnerships with political groups advocating for the monarchy and Hindu nation. Additionally, it will support peaceful and non-violent demonstrations organized by others while seeking similar backing for its own protests.

The party accused the government of failing to uphold national interests, curb corruption, and ensure political stability. It reaffirmed its demand for monarchy and the abolition of federalism, recalling its 40-point demand submitted last year. RPP has scheduled a mass rally in Kathmandu on March 26 and will launch a capital-centric protest from April 19.

Sujata Koirala’s Autobiography ‘Ma Ra Mero Sano Buwa’ Launched by PM Oli: Sujata Koirala’s autobiographical book, Ma Ra Mero Sano Buwa (Me & My Younger Father), was launched by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on the 15th Memorial Day of Girija Prasad Koirala, former NC President and Prime Minister. PM Oli emphasized that the nation’s foundation was built by the collective efforts of all Nepalis, not by any individual or family legacy.

NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba shared his long political history with Girija Prasad, acknowledging his role in shaping leadership. Other leaders, including Dr. Shekhar Koirala and Bhishma Raj Angdambe, also paid tribute to Girija Prasad’s contributions and discussed the need for unity and good governance within the party. Sujata Koirala described her autobiography as the result of extensive research, covering her family’s political history.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli Advocates for Stronger Infrastructure and Technological Advancements at PEAN Convention: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized the importance of using modern technology to build strong, safe structures during the 10th National Convention of the Progressive Engineers Association Nepal (PEAN). He urged engineers to consider the country’s geographical conditions while constructing, offering government support to address legal challenges.

PM Oli highlighted the critical role of infrastructure development in fostering entrepreneurship and national progress. He also encouraged creating an environment that fosters advanced education and entrepreneurship within Nepal, rather than focusing on students studying abroad. PEAN Chair Dr. Suraj Lamichhane outlined the organization’s role in supporting technology-friendly policies.

Hitendra Dev Shakya Assumes Office as NEA Executive Director: Newly appointed Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), Hitendra Dev Shakya, officially assumed office on Tuesday evening. Welcomed by NEA staff, Shakya stated that he had received justice and pledged to continue his previous plans for the authority. Dismissing rumors of load shedding, he assured uninterrupted electricity supply and promised visible positive changes within two weeks. Shakya also committed to resolving outstanding dues on dedicated and trunk lines through procedural measures.

Chandra Bahadur Thapa Appointed as Chairperson of Health Insurance Board: Chandra Bahadur Thapa Kshetri from Pyuthan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Health Insurance Board. Health Minister Poudel administered the oath of office to Thapa on Tuesday. Minister Poudel expressed confidence that the board would gain momentum under Thapa’s leadership. Economist Dr. Raghuraj Kafle has already been appointed as the board’s director. Thapa, a postgraduate, previously served as a board member. The government aims to strengthen the Health Insurance Fund and ensure its sustainability.

Govt Will Regret Removing Kulman Ghising: Maoist Leader Janardan Sharma: Maoist Center Deputy General Secretary and MP Janardan Sharma criticized the government’s decision to remove Nepal Electricity Authority’s Executive Director Kulman Ghising, calling it a “big mistake” that will lead to future regret. Speaking at the Public Accounts Committee meeting, Sharma said the claim that Ghising was removed for “underperformance” is baseless and unbelievable. Meanwhile, Rastriya Swatantra Party MP Manish Jha demanded the committee’s official stance on Ghising’s dismissal and raised concerns about industrial electricity dues.

32% of Hill Residents, 28.9% from Tarai Migrated in the Last Decade: A report by the National Statistics Office reveals that 32% of hill residents and 28.9% of Tarai inhabitants migrated elsewhere in the past decade. Based on the 2021 census, the report highlights internal migration trends, fertility rates, and population projections. It estimates Nepal’s population will reach 33.5 million by 2051. Additionally, 75.8% of Nepalis abroad are aged 15-34, and internal migration is highest in Gandaki Province. The report also projects an increase in returning migrants by 2108 BS.

Supreme Court Launches Online System to Simplify Justice Process: The Supreme Court has launched an online system aimed at making the justice process more efficient and accessible. The new system will send notices about hearings to the Chief Attorney’s offices across all seven provinces and manage special nature complaints by District Courts. Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut emphasized that the digitalization of the justice system is essential for improving transparency, reliability, and reducing irregularities. The Supreme Court aims to create a paperless judicial environment through this technological advancement.

NEPSE Drops Below 2,600 After Two Months, Turnover Surges: The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) plunged 2.19% (58.05 points) on March 25, closing at 2,582.73—its lowest level in over two months. The index, which had gained 0.99% in the previous session, has closed higher only twice in the last 16 trading days.

Despite the decline, trading activity surged, with turnover reaching Rs 5.18 billion, up from Rs 4.48 billion. Over 11 million shares were traded in 62,021 transactions.

All major indices closed in the red, with the Finance Index suffering the biggest loss at 3.50%. The Sensitive, Float, and Sensitive Float indices dropped by 1.90%, 2.20%, and 1.91%, respectively.

NCCD86 led gainers with a 4.52% rise, while NABBC fell the most, dropping 8.73%. Himalayan Reinsurance Limited (HRL) recorded the highest turnover, followed by NRIC and UMHL.

India Halts 350 MW Power Supply, Nepal Faces Increased Load-Shedding: India has stopped supplying 350 MW of electricity under the Project Steering Committee (PSC) agreement for the past four days, worsening load-shedding in Nepal’s industrial sector. Nepal has approval to import 450 MW, but India proposed limiting supply to solar hours from March 15 to June 30. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy sought clarification from former NEA MD Kulman Ghising for agreeing to higher power rates without ministry approval. The Cabinet dismissed him on Monday.

Nepali Film ‘Jerry on Top’ Completes Shooting: The Nepali film ‘Dori’ is set to release this Friday, Chait 15, in cinemas across the country. As the release date approaches, actor Birendra Singh Kushwaha has been spotted in an unusual costume around various locations in Kathmandu. Wearing a “Dori” garland, a red sari, and a furious expression, his appearance has caught the attention of the public, with many sharing photos and videos on social media. This promotional activity, part of the film’s marketing strategy, has successfully piqued public interest. Director Arun Lama explained that this method was used to generate curiosity about the film’s story.

Poet and Lyricist Ram Babu Suvedi’s Children’s Song ‘Ka Ka Ki Ki’ Released: The children’s song “Ka Ka Ki Ki” written by poet and lyricist Ram Babu Suvedi has been released as part of a children’s music project. The video, created in collaboration with Swastishree Gurukul I.B. World School in Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, features music by Milan Timilsina. The song is performed by Suprim Mall Thakuri and Teresha Bhishwakarma. The music video showcases children from the school, including Sākṣat Nepal, Aisal Khanal, Tara Singh Shrestha, and Arushi Timilsina, in acting roles. Directed and conceptualized by Acharya Gopal, the video was filmed by Sunil Bhandari and edited by Bir Bahadur Tharu, with choreography by Rupesh Shrestha.

Singer Samiksha Adhikari Currently in Australia, Shares Photos from Sydney: Singer Samiksha Adhikari is currently in Australia, as revealed in the photos she posted on her Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon. She is in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales and one of Australia’s major cities. Famous for its iconic design, the Sydney Opera House near the harbor is a popular sightseeing destination. The area also features the arched Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanic Garden. From the outer platform of the Sydney Tower, one can view the city in 360 degrees via the Skywalk.

Nepal Defeated 2-0 by Malaysia in AFC Asia Cup Qualifiers: Nepal lost 2-0 to Malaysia in the first match of the third round of the AFC Asia Cup qualifiers. Malaysia took the lead with a goal in the 29th minute by Hector Hevel and doubled the lead in the 71st minute through Labere Corvin Ong. With this win, Malaysia earned three points in Group F. The group also includes Vietnam and Laos. Nepal’s next match is against Laos on June 10.

Nepal Police Club Secures Spot in Prime Minister’s Cup Final with 44-run Victory Over Karnali: Nepal Police Club has secured a place in the final of the Prime Minister’s Cup National Men’s One Day Cricket Tournament after defeating Karnali Province by 44 runs. This marks their seventh appearance in the final. Playing at the Deukhuri Cricket Ground in Dang, Police set a target of 148 runs, which Karnali fell short of, managing only 103 runs in 24 overs. For Police, Lalit Narayan Rajwanshi was the standout bowler, taking 6 wickets for 41 runs, setting a record for the most wickets by a bowler with 100 wickets. Sagar Dhakal and Karan KC also contributed with 2 and 1 wicket, respectively. In their chase, Karnali’s Ravindra Shahi (49) and Arjun Gharti (30) were the top scorers, but the rest of the team couldn’t make significant contributions. Police’s win, coupled with their 16 points from 8 games, ensures their top position in the standings, regardless of the outcome of their last match.

Anjan Bista Left Out of Nepal’s Starting XI for AFC Asia Cup Qualifier Against Malaysia: Nepal’s experienced forward, Anjan Bista, has been left out of the starting lineup for the AFC Asia Cup qualifier against Malaysia. Coach Matt Rus made the decision to bench Bista in favor of midfielder Laken Limbu during last Friday’s friendly match against Singapore. Bista, who has scored 13 goals alongside Hari Khadka and Nirajan Rayamajhi, is on the verge of a milestone. The match against Malaysia, ranked 43 spots above Nepal in the FIFA rankings, will kick off at 7:45 PM Nepali time. Despite the tough challenge, Nepal gained confidence after their 1-0 victory against Singapore.

Ukraine and Russia Agree to Ceasefire in Black Sea, US Announces: The US has announced that both Ukraine and Russia have agreed to a ceasefire proposal in the Black Sea. The agreement includes ensuring safe navigation, eliminating the use of force, and preventing commercial vessels from being used for military purposes. This development follows three days of discussions between the US and both countries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian officials.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Criticizes US for “Unacceptable Pressure” on Greenland: Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, condemned the US for exerting “unacceptable pressure” on Greenland ahead of an unsolicited visit by members of the Trump administration. The delegation, which includes Usha Vance, wife of US Vice President JD Vance, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is set to visit the semi-autonomous Danish territory from Thursday to Sunday. Frederiksen emphasized that Denmark would resist such pressure, stating that official representatives should not make private visits.