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:

Congress Concludes Former King Gyanendra Responsible for Tinkune Violence:

The Nepali Congress has concluded that former King Gyanendra Shah should take responsibility for the violence in Tinkune. A meeting of party leaders, chaired by President Sher Bahadur Deuba at his residence, stated that Shah, who allegedly formed the protest committee, must be held accountable for the unrest. Spokesperson Prakashsharan Mahat condemned the violence, describing it as a planned attack aimed at destabilizing the country. The party also decided to initiate dialogue with leaders of constitutionalist parties.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum for Release of Leaders:

Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) has given the government a 24-hour ultimatum to release its senior vice president Rabindra Mishra and general secretary Dhawal Shamsher Rana. During a central executive committee meeting on Saturday, RPP president Rajendra Lingden warned of nationwide protests if the leaders are not freed within the given time frame. The party also demanded that those arrested, including Mishra, Rana, and advocate Swagat Nepal, be released unconditionally. Furthermore, RPP has called for the martyrs’ recognition of two individuals who died during the Tinkune protests.

Deuba Asserts Continuation of Republic System, Condemns Former King’s Activities:

Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba affirmed that the current republic system in Nepal will persist, emphasizing that the Nepali people support the federal democratic republic. Speaking at the eighth convention of the Nepali Writers’ Association in Lumbini, Deuba condemned activities associated with the former king and clarified that the democratic republic, established through struggle and sacrifice, would not be altered by anyone’s desires. He called for unity among all Nepali citizens in support of the republic.

Prachanda Urges Strict Measures Against Royalists and Corruption:

Chairman of the CPN-Maoist Center, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, stressed that the time has come for republicans to take firm action against royalist elements during the inauguration of the Press Center’s fifth congress in Kathmandu on Saturday. He urged the government to act decisively to gain the support of the people. Prachanda also criticized the current government for enabling corruption and urged unity among republicans to halt collusion with corrupt forces. He also highlighted concerns about royalists’ attacks on media and the impact on the nation’s development.

Tribhuvan University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Keshar Jung Baral Resigns Due to Health Reasons:

Prof. Dr. Keshar Jung Baral, Vice-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, has resigned citing health issues. His resignation letter has been submitted to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, with the Prime Minister also serving as the university’s Chancellor. Baral, appointed on Falgun 10 last year, has not yet received approval for his resignation.

Tributes Paid to Journalist Suresh Rajak, Protest Demands Justice for His Death:

Tributes have been paid to Suresh Rajak, a camera person for Avenues Television, who tragically died during the violent protests by royalist supporters in Tinkune, Kathmandu. A demonstration led by the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) was held at Maitighar, demanding a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible for Rajak’s death. Rajak was found burnt inside a building set on fire by the protesters. FNJ leaders expressed their commitment to justice and urged unity to protect journalists’ rights. The FNJ has postponed its Establishment Day events and will meet with the Communications Minister for further action.

111 Royalist Activists Arrested for Arson, Looting, and Vandalism in Tinkune:

The police have arrested 111 royalist activists accused in arson, looting, and vandalism during the royalist protests in Tinkune. The Joint People’s Movement Committee’s demonstration led to 15 vehicles and 14 locations being set on fire, with 10 sites looted. The arrests were made using evidence from photos, videos, and CCTV footage, many of which were collected from social media. Police have intensified their efforts to apprehend all those involved, including individuals connected to the Bhatbhateni loot in Koteshwor.

128 Injured in Tinkune Royalist Protest, 16 Still Receiving Treatment:

A total of 128 people were injured during the royalist protest in Tinkune, Kathmandu on Friday. Out of these, 16 are still undergoing treatment in various hospitals, while 112 have been discharged. According to the police, 55 Nepal Police personnel were injured, with 50 discharged and five still being treated at Nepal Police Hospital. Additionally, 22 Armed Police Force personnel were injured, with 21 discharged and one still receiving care. 51 protesters were also injured, with 35 discharged and 16 still undergoing treatment.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak Inspects Vandalism Sites, Condemns Attack on Media:

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, accompanied by senior officials, conducted an inspection of areas including Tinkune and Koteshwor, where supporters of the former king were involved in vandalism and arson. The team visited several sites, including a media house, private properties, and party offices. Lekhak condemned the attack on media institutions and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. He emphasized the importance of unity in countering such anarchic activities in a democratic republic, stressing that attacks on the media and public property would not be tolerated.

Kathmandu Lifts Curfew Imposed After Royalist Protest Violence:

The District Administration Office in Kathmandu has lifted the curfew order imposed on the Tinkune area following the violent protests by pro-monarchists on Friday. The curfew, which began late Friday afternoon, was enforced to control the clashes and vandalism, covering areas from Old Baneshwor to Tinkune, and extending to several key locations. Kathmandu Chief District Officer Rishiram Tiwari confirmed the suspension of the curfew, effective from 7:00 am this morning. The curfew was imposed under Section (6a) of the Local Administration Act after widespread unrest caused by the protest.

Detention of RPP Leaders and Swagat Nepal to Be Extended, Charges Pending:

The detention of Senior Vice-chair of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Rabindra Mishra, General Secretary Dhawal Shamsher Rana, and Joint People’s Movement Committee spokesperson Swagat Nepal is set to be extended on Sunday. The Kathmandu District Police Range will determine the specific charges to be filed against them and will require their presence at either the court or the district administration office. The three were arrested on Friday evening for allegedly inciting violence during a protest organized by the People’s Movement Committee, led by Nabaraj Subedi.

Kamal Thapa Visits Detained RPP Leaders, Offers Support and Assurance:

Kamal Thapa, Chair of Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal (RPP-Nepal), visited the Police Range in Bhadrakali to meet detained RPP leaders Rabindra Mishra and Dhawal Shumsher Rana, accompanied by advocate Swagat Nepal. During the visit, Thapa encouraged the detainees to maintain their health and assured them of the party’s unwavering support, saying, “We are here for you. Don’t worry.” The detainees expressed their gratitude to Thapa, who was accompanied by RPP General Secretary Rajaram Bartoula and other party members.

President Paudel Attends Ghode Jatra 2081 Ceremony, Witnesses Equestrian Performances:

President Ram Chandra Paudel attended the Ghode Jatra 2081 ceremony hosted by the Nepali Army at Tundikhel on Saturday, accompanied by Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and other high-ranking officials. The event featured equestrian performances, including horse racing and jumping displays, which President Paudel observed. He also presented awards to outstanding performers. Ghode Jatra, a traditional festival of the Kathmandu Valley, is celebrated annually on the no-moon day of Chaitra, with various cultural and ceremonial events.

Three Bhutanese Refugees Deported by the U.S. Arrested in Jhapa:

Three Bhutanese refugees, Ashish Subedi (36), Santosh Darji (31), and Roshan Tamang (36), were arrested in the Beladagi refugee camp, Jhapa, on Saturday. The trio had been deported from the U.S. to Bhutan but returned to Nepal, allegedly entering through an illegal border crossing. Police suspect they entered Nepal via India after being refused asylum in India. Upon learning of their attempted entry, Nepal’s border authorities heightened surveillance, leading to the refugees’ arrest. The trio has been handed over to the Immigration Office in Kakadvitta for further action.

Private Sector Organizations Condemn Violence and Vandalism in Tinkune, Demand Compensation:

Three private sector organizations—the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), and others—have condemned the violence, vandalism, looting, and arson that occurred in Tinkune, Kathmandu, on Friday. In separate statements, they expressed concern over the damage to private media houses, businesses, and other public properties. The FNCCI called for compensation for the losses and urged authorities to ensure the safety of businesses and control such violent acts.

Insurance Coverage in Nepal Expands to 44.17% of Population, but Reach Shrinks Slightly:

As of the end of the 2081/82 fiscal year, 44.17% of Nepal’s population is covered by insurance, including life insurance for temporary, short-term, and foreign employment. This represents a slight increase from 43.16% in the previous year. However, when excluding these specific categories, only 16.57% of the population has insurance coverage, showing a minor decline from last year’s 17.04%. Insurance companies have expanded their networks and staff, but the overall reach has seen only a modest improvement. The total premium collected by life and non-life insurance companies in the fiscal year exceeded NPR 138 billion, marking a 10.56% increase from last year. Despite growth in business volume, the overall insurance coverage remains limited.

Litmus Industries Launches Nepal’s First Aluminum Rod Plant:

Litmus Industries Limited has inaugurated Nepal’s first aluminum rod manufacturing plant under its new initiative, Litmus 2.0. Located in Ramgram, Hakui of Nawalparasi, the facility aims to reduce Nepal’s dependence on aluminum rod imports, which are crucial for the wires, cables, and conductors sector.
A furnace firing ceremony was held on Wednesday to mark the plant’s launch. Litmus Industries stated that localized production will help cut the trade deficit, retain revenue, and develop technical expertise. The initiative is seen as a strategic milestone, expected to attract investments and strengthen Nepal’s industrial and economic landscape.

Nepali Film ‘Anjila’ Becomes a Super Hit, Star Angela Tumbapo Subba Engages with Fans in Eastern Nepal:

The Nepali film ‘Anjila’ released on the occasion of Fagu Purnima, became a super hit. Actress and lead star, Angela Tumbapo Subba, took time off from her sports career to promote the film across eastern Nepal. She visited various cities, including Kathmandu, Itahari, and Dharan, where she interacted with fans and participated in sports events. The film, which showcases Angela’s journey from childhood to sports success, has earned NPR 8.7 crore in 13 days. Angela, currently playing in Greece, will return after completing her promotion tour.

‘One of the Millions’ Filming Completed in the US, Featuring Hassan Raja Khan:

The filming of the Nepali movie ‘One of the Millions,’ starring Hassan Raja Khan, has been completed in the US. Directed by Vishal Sapkota, the film portrays the dreams of Nepali immigrants coming to America. Khan and Subash Thapa play the lead roles, with 20 local artists also participating. Khan, who entered the film industry through ‘Alvida,’ expressed confidence in winning the audience’s heart with this project. The movie will be showcased in international festivals before its release in Nepal.

Prakash Saput Responds to Criticism Over Oli Praise, Says Singing Is More Appropriate for Him:

Prakash Saput, criticized on social media for praising Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, expressed that singing was more fitting for him than speaking. At the 12th Annual General Meeting of the Nepal Gold and Silver Entrepreneurs Association in Pokhara, Saput, who was invited as a guest, performed two songs after stating he preferred singing over speaking. His earlier comments at the launch of the book “KP Sharma Oli: Sapna, Sangharsha, Ra Sankalpa” praising Oli had sparked backlash on social media.

Nepal Police Club Clinches PM Cup Title, Defeats Tribhuwan Army Club by 6 Wickets:

Nepal Police Club won the PM Cup title on Saturday, defeating Tribhuwan Army Club by 6 wickets in the final at Siddhartha Cricket Stadium, Bhairahawa. Tribhuwan Army posted a total of 154 runs, all out in 43 overs. Nepal Police achieved the target of 155 runs, scoring 157/4 in 25.2 overs. Karan KC and Sagar Dhakal took 3 wickets each for Nepal Police, while Kushal Bhurtel (61), Amit Shrestha (39), and Dilip Nath (31) led the chase.

Church Boys United Wins 23rd Tilottama Gold Cup:

Church Boys United clinched the title of the 23rd Tilottama Gold Cup on Saturday, defeating departmental team APF 2-0 in the final at the ANFA Technical Ground in Devnagar. With the victory, Church Boys earned a cash prize of NPR 12,12,222, while APF received NPR 6,66,666. Richard Wilson scored the opening goal in the 19th minute, followed by Raj Bhushal’s goal in the 65th minute. Wilson capitalized on a set-piece, while Raj finished a rebound from a saved free-kick.

Nepal to Compete in Four-Nation T20I Series in Hong Kong:

Nepal will participate in a four-nation T20I series in Hong Kong from April 9 to 13, as announced by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN). Along with Nepal and host Hong Kong, Qatar and Kuwait will also compete. Nepal will begin the tournament by playing against Qatar. The second match will be against Kuwait on April 10, and the final game will be against Hong Kong on April 12. The top two teams will advance to the final, while the third and fourth-place teams will compete for third place.

Vincent Kozillo’s Penalty Secures Draw for Kathmandu Rangers in NSL Valley Derby:

Kathmandu Rangers managed to avoid defeat against defending champions Lalitpur City FC in the opening match of the third edition of Nepal Super League (NSL) on Saturday at Dasarath Stadium. The match ended in a 2-2 draw. Lalitpur’s Jonathan Eduardo and Aditya Shakya scored, while Kathmandu’s Omodou Diop and Vincent Kozillo responded. Jonathan’s early goal gave Lalitpur the lead, followed by Aditya’s second goal. Diop pulled one back for Kathmandu, and in injury time, Vincent’s penalty secured a draw after a foul in the box.

Earthquake in Myanmar Claims 1,644 Lives, Sparks International Aid and Rescue Efforts:

A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar on Friday, resulting in the deaths of 1,644 people, with hundreds trapped under collapsed buildings. The quake also affected neighboring countries Thailand and Pakistan. Over 90 people are believed to be trapped in Mandalay, Myanmar. India has sent the first batch of humanitarian aid, including blankets, food, and medical teams. Myanmar’s Naypyitaw airport remains closed after the quake’s damage, including the collapse of its air traffic control tower.

Elon Musk to Step Down from Government Efficiency Role After Achieving $1 Trillion Cut:

Tech billionaire Elon Musk announced plans to step down from his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by the end of May, claiming his team is on track to reduce the US federal deficit by $1 trillion. In an interview with Fox News, Musk shared that his team is cutting waste and fraud at a rate of $4 billion a day, aiming for a 15% reduction in federal spending without impacting essential services.

Trump Vows to Defend Greenland from Russia and China, Stresses Security Importance:

In a video shared by US President Donald Trump, he promised to defend Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, from potential threats posed by Russia and China. Trump, who has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland for security reasons, highlighted the historical US-Greenland cooperation during World War II. The video reassured the island’s 56,000 residents, stating “America stands with Greenland.” Trump’s comments came after US Vice President JD Vance visited Greenland, emphasizing increased military investment. While Russia denies aggressive intentions, it has voiced concerns over NATO’s growing presence in the Arctic region.

US Vice President JD Vance Urges Greenland to Break Ties with Denmark Amid Rising Threats from China and Russia:

US Vice President JD Vance has accused Denmark of leaving Greenland vulnerable to threats from China and Russia, urging Greenland to sever ties with Denmark and strike a deal with the US. Speaking during a visit to Greenland, Vance downplayed US President Trump’s past threats to take over the island by force, instead focusing on the island’s security and untapped resources. The visit sparked criticism from Denmark, with Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen defending Denmark’s commitment to Greenland’s security. Greenlanders overwhelmingly oppose annexation, and the visit has drawn protests.