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:

Top Leaders Unite to Defend Federal Republic, Condemn Royalist Protests:

Leaders of Nepal’s three major political parties met at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar on Saturday, reaching a strong consensus to jointly defend the federal democratic republic. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal agreed to resist any actions threatening the constitutional order. They labeled recent pro-monarchy protests as apolitical, violent, and criminal. Discussions also addressed the transitional justice process, with updates on appointments to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protect national peace, constitutional integrity, and social harmony amid growing concerns over anti-republican movements.

Home Ministry Warns RPP Against Protest in Restricted Areas, Vows Legal Action:

After the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) announced it would defy restricted zones tomorrow to hold protests, Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs issued a warning of legal consequences. Ministry spokesperson Ram Chandra Tiwari released the statement and said no unlawful or unconstitutional activities will be tolerated. RPP has launched a phased movement demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy. The Home Ministry expressed serious concern over public statements threatening to breach restricted areas. On March 28, police detained RPP leaders Rabindra Mishra and Dhawal Shamsher Rana during a violent protest. RPP demands their unconditional release and plans further protests on April 20 in restricted zones, prompting the Ministry’s warning.

Prachanda Vows to Defeat Royalist Forces, Uphold Newar Rights and Socialist Values:

CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ declared efforts by “regressive forces” would be defeated, referring to recent pro-monarchist activities. Speaking at a rally by Newa: Rastriya Mukti Morcha in Basantapur, he praised the Newar community’s role in Nepal’s democratic struggles and emphasized their cultural and historical ties to socialism with Nepali characteristics. He recalled declaring Nepal Sambat as the National Sambat and recognizing Nepal Bhasa as an official language during his tenure. Prachanda reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Newar language, culture, and history, and to supporting their right to self-determination.

New Nepal Bar Executive Takes Charge, Vows Political Neutrality and Reform:

The newly elected Nepal Bar Association executive, led by Prof. Dr. Bijay Kant Mishra, assumed office on Saturday, succeeding former president Gopal Krishna Ghimire. Elected on Chaitra 23, Mishra represented the Broad Democratic, Progressive, Professional, Nationalist, and Inclusive Lawyers’ Group, defeating Raman Kumar Shrestha of the Professional Lawyers’ Group. The 27th central executive committee now includes 25 new members. In his address, Mishra pledged to uphold political neutrality, ensure transparency, and strengthen the Bar’s role as a unified, professional institution. Shrestha also stressed the importance of independence from political influence. Speakers urged the new team to uphold legacy and fairness.

U.S. Charter Plane Deports Three More Undocumented Nepalis Amid Immigration Crackdown:

U.S. aircraft has again arrived in Nepal to deport three Nepalis. According to sources, the aircraft with registration number GVN 176 SM brought back the deportees, identified by the surnames Chapagain, Chaudhary, and Budha. Previously, on February 3, eleven undocumented Nepalis were deported via a U.S. chartered plane. The deportations are being carried out under former President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policies, which continue to influence enforcement. The individuals were deported for residing illegally in the U.S. in violation of immigration laws. Sources say the U.S. has intensified its crackdown on undocumented immigrants, including those from Nepal.

Home Minister Lekhak Dismisses Rumors of Coalition Rift, Reaffirms Democratic Commitment:

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak stated that the ruling Nepali Congress–CPN UML coalition is functioning smoothly, with no internal issues. Speaking at a press meet organized by Nepal Press Union in Kaski, Lekhak emphasized the government’s unity and questioned rumors of collapse. He underscored the importance of free press in a democracy, warning that anti-democratic forces often target media first. Lekhak rejected unconstitutional activities and highlighted the need to correct past weaknesses. He also mentioned ongoing legislative work, including a bill on citizenship, and confirmed there are no disputes regarding the governor’s appointment or the government’s response to teachers’ demands.

Teachers’ Protest Hits 18th Day: Capital’s Roads Paralyzed:

The Nepal Teachers’ Association protest entered its 18th day today, severely affecting Kathmandu’s transport sector. Around 12,000 workers and 4,000 vehicles have been impacted per day since they lunched the protests with operations halted along the Maitighar–New Baneshwor route. The Nepal Public Transport Federation submitted a memorandum to the Home Ministry demanding an immediate resumption of services, citing financial distress and public inconvenience. Authorities claim the teachers did not seek protest permission. Demonstrations, active since April 2, have blocked key roads, causing long traffic jams. Teachers continue to press for a new Education Act, while affected citizens call for relocating the protests to a less disruptive venue.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana to Chair UNESCAP Session in Bangkok:

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba will travel to Bangkok on Sunday to attend the 81st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), scheduled from April 21 to 25. As Nepal currently holds the chair of UNESCAP, Minister Rana will preside over the session and also address it on behalf of Nepal. The main theme of the session is regional cooperation for sustainable urban development in Asia and the Pacific. She will lead a Nepali delegation comprising officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Planning Commission, and the Nepali Embassy in Thailand.

Korean Embassy Hosts ‘Friends of Korea 2025’ in Kathmandu, Celebrates Alumni Ties and 51 Years of Diplomacy:

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kathmandu hosted the “Friends of Korea 2025” event on Saturday, celebrating South Korean university alumni and 51 years of Nepal-Korea diplomatic relations. Ambassador Park Tae-Young emphasized the importance of alumni as bridges between the two nations and highlighted Korea’s developmental priorities in Nepal, including infrastructure, clean energy, and vocational training. The event underscored Korea’s support through KOICA’s ODA programs and the Employment Permit System (EPS). Over 100 alumni attended, alongside government officials and academics, as both nations pledged to strengthen people-to-people ties and expand future collaboration through innovation and policy dialogue.

Speaker Ghimire Blames Political Instability for Poor Governance, Urges Leadership Reform:

Speaker Devraj Ghimire stated that political instability has hindered good governance in Nepal, emphasizing the need for accountable and committed political leadership. Speaking at the National Governance Summit-2025, he said honesty and determination are essential for reform, not just changes in governance structures. Ram Hari Khatiwada, Chair of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, stressed that leaders must address public dissatisfaction to restore trust. Former Chief Election Officer Bhoj Raj Pokharel warned that good governance will remain a slogan unless political conduct improves. The summit also focuses on citizen participation, innovation in public service, and sustainable policy reforms.

Federal Civil Service Bill Stalls Amid Disputes Over Promotions, Retirement, and Union Rights:

The Federal Civil Service Bill remains stalled in the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee due to internal disagreements. Key points of contention include political trade union rights, the phased retirement age increase to 60, and the proposed promotion of senior joint secretaries. Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal and Finance Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyaya raised concerns about financial implications and youth employment expectations. Civil servants protested outside the committee hall, demanding union rights. The bill also introduces revised service structures, entry age limits, tenure guidelines, and transfer policies. A “cooling period” post-retirement and pension-salary exclusivity for appointees are among other provisions.

Kalikot School Headmaster Found Dead Near Belupata Bazaar, Police Launch Investigation:

Krishna Bahadur Shahi, 54, headmaster of Shanti Basic School in Sanni Triveni Rural Municipality-4, Kalikot, was found dead near Belupata bazaar on Saturday morning. According to the District Police Office, Shahi had gone to the market on Friday but failed to return home, prompting his family to report him missing. Chief of Police Tek Bahadur Rawat confirmed that a team has been deployed to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. The cause of death remains unknown, and further details are awaited as authorities continue their probe into the incident.

Adhyayan School Inaugurates New Building with US Ambassador, Emphasizing Innovation and Holistic Learning:

Adhyayan School inaugurated its newly constructed building on Saturday, featuring modern classrooms and a full-sized futsal ground. The ceremony was graced by US Ambassador to Nepal Dean R. Thompson, who praised the school’s innovative and holistic education approach. As part of the Leapfrog initiative, Adhyayan School is Nepal’s first D.tech institution focused on design thinking and technology, while its preschool is the country’s first Reggio Emilia-inspired center. According to a press release, the new facility reinforces the school’s commitment to nurturing future-ready learners by promoting creativity, critical thinking, and physical development in a dynamic learning environment.

Kakarbhitta Quarantine Office Exports Agricultural Goods Worth Rs 18.62 Billion in Nine Months:

The Kakarbhitta quarantine office, part of the Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Center, reported agricultural exports totaling Rs 18.62 billion in the first nine months of the current fiscal year. Key exports included tea (Rs 8.41 billion), cardamom (Rs 5.63 billion), and ply and veneer (Rs 2.87 billion). Other exports included ginger, tamarind, and herbal products. In contrast, agricultural imports through the eastern border amounted to Rs 2.77 billion, with millet, rice, fresh vegetables, and garlic being the primary imports. Information Officer Chandreshwar Thakur highlighted the diverse range of both imports and exports handled by the office.

Paal Shah Returns to the Screen with “Mohar,” Set for Release on Sawan 23:

Actor Paal Shah is set to release his first film of the year, “Mohar,” on Sawan 23. The film, presented by Film Makers Pvt. Ltd., is written and directed by Om Pratik. Produced by Chumban Jung Shah, “Mohar” features a star cast including Benisha Hamal, Neeti Shah, Arjun Jung Shah, Mithila Sharma, Ravindra Jha, Laxmi Giri, Sushil Devkota, and child actor Sara Sharma. Recently, the makers released images showing Paal Shah in a new look, with long hair and holding a revolver.

“Joginderko Pan Dukaan” Returns to TV with New Format and Star Guests:

Nepali TV’s popular comedy show “Joginderko Pan Dukaan” is back, hosted by comedian Shivshankar Rizal. It will air on Bagmati Television HD and OSR Digital from today, Thursdays at 8:30 PM. The show will feature conversations with notable personalities in a fun, entertaining style. In the first episode, actor Paras Bam Thakuri, known for his role in the film “Hostel 3,” will be the guest. The show will also feature political figure Sikhe Raut in upcoming episodes.

“Ke Ghar Ke Dera: Ghar No. 2” – A New Nepali Movie with Fresh Storyline, Not a Sequel:

The highly anticipated Nepali film “Ke Ghar Ke Dera: Ghar No. 2,” directed by Dipendra K. Khanal, will be released on Jestha 2. While many viewers wondered if it was a sequel to the 2021 film “Ke Ghar Ke Dera,” Khanal clarified that it’s not. The movie presents a new story, inspired by themes of homes and shelters, and offers a fresh cinematic experience. Written by renowned author Buddhi Sagar, it features a talented cast including Khagendra Lamichhane, Nischal Basnet, and others.

Former Miss Nepal Ashmi Shrestha’s Wedding Celebrations Begin with Mehendi Ceremony:

Ashmi Shrestha, former Miss Nepal, is set to marry her fiancé Shashanklal Shrestha on Baisakh 8. The wedding celebrations began on Thursday with a joyful Mehendi ceremony, where Ashmi shared happy moments with her fiancé. She posted pictures on social media, marking the event with the caption, “A new beginning for forever.” Ashmi and Shashanklal got engaged on Poush 19, 2080, in the USA. Since winning Miss Nepal in 2016, Ashmi has been active in modeling and music videos.

Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwo Prakash Sharma Composes Song for Upcoming Film ‘Bigul’:

The upcoming film Bigul, focusing on contemporary social and political issues, features a song composed by Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwo Prakash Sharma. Directed by Ramesh Koirala, the song titled “Aau Yesto Desh Banaun” was recorded at Sayarem Studio in Anamnagar. The film, produced under the banner of Magnelia Group, stars Naren Khadka, Benisha Hamal, Ramesh Budhathoki, and others. The shooting will begin in the third week of Baisakh, with a focus on ideological revolution and change.

Lalitpur City FC Into NSL Final After Controversial 2–1 Win Over Dhangadhi:

Lalitpur City FC secured a dramatic 2–1 win over Dhangadhi FC to reach the Nepal Super League (NSL) final for the second consecutive time. Despite being reduced to 10 men in the 16th minute, goals from Kervens Belfort and Pape Kebe sealed the win. Dhangadhi’s George Prince Karki scored a consolation goal. The match saw multiple red cards, including one for Lalitpur’s Manikumar Lama, sparking controversy and scuffles, even requiring police intervention at the end of the heated encounter.

Open 7-A-Side Futsal Tournament to Be Held in Birtamod with Record Prize Money:

Birtamod Sports Center is organizing the first-ever Birtamod Foot-7 Cup, a 7-a-side open futsal tournament on Baisakh 19 and 20 at the Syaldang-based futsal court in Birtamod-5, Jhapa. With 24 teams participating, it’s set to be the biggest prize pool event in Eastern Nepal. The winner will receive Rs 100,000 and the runner-up Rs 50,000. Awards include Rs 10,000 for the best player, Rs 5,000 each for top scorer and best goalkeeper, and Rs 1,500 for every match’s player of the match.

Putin Announces Temporary Ceasefire with Ukraine, Urges Kiev to Show Goodwill:

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine, set to begin at 18:00 Moscow time on Saturday and last until midnight on April 21. The truce, following a meeting with General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov, aims to test Ukraine’s willingness to engage in negotiations. Putin cautioned that Russian forces must remain alert to potential violations or provocations. He referenced previous violations of a March 18 energy truce by Kiev and urged Ukraine to reciprocate the ceasefire. The Russian Defense Ministry emphasized the ceasefire’s humanitarian purpose, contingent on Ukraine’s compliance.

Pakistan Expels Over 19,500 Afghans Amid Rising Tensions, Talks with Taliban Continue:

Pakistan has deported over 19,500 Afghans in April, part of a larger effort to expel more than 80,000 ahead of the April 30 deadline. The move, aimed at addressing national security concerns, is accelerating, with up to 800 families being deported daily. The UN estimates that up to two million Afghans may be forced out in the coming months. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited Kabul for talks with Taliban officials, who expressed concern over the deportations. Many deported Afghans, some born in Pakistan, face uncertainty, with worries about education and job prospects under Taliban rule.

US Supreme Court Halts Deportation of Venezuelan Gang Suspects Under 1798 Law:

The US Supreme Court has paused the Trump administration’s deportation of Venezuelan men accused of gang affiliations under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sued, arguing detainees were not informed in Spanish of their right to challenge deportation. Over 130 of 261 Venezuelans deported as of April 8 were removed using the Act, with some sent to a notorious Salvadoran prison. The Court ruled deportees must be given proper notice and time to seek habeas relief. Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissented. The case challenges the law’s use against alleged gang members from Venezuela.