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Memorandum Submitted Against Government Decision to Close Choti Customs Office in Siraha

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Local residents and businesspeople have submitted a memorandum to the District Administration Office opposing the government’s decision to close the Choti Customs Office located in Bariyarpatti, Siraha. On April 7, they protested against the government by blocking the Postal Highway for five hours. The District Administration Office has issued a public notice warning against the use of children for political purposes in protests, threatening strict action for any violations.

The memorandum was submitted citing that the government’s decision to shut down the Choti Customs Office will directly impact cross-border trade, revenue collection, and local economic activities. Local residents and business persons expressed their concerns at the administration office in Siraha.

Following the announcement of the closure, protesters blocked the Postal Highway for five hours on Thursday, demonstrating their opposition to the move. Santosh Mahto, Chairperson of Bariyarpatti Rural Municipality, announced plans for a phased protest starting Friday.

According to Mahto, the planned protests include a road blockade from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on April 8, a rally followed by a corner meeting on April 9, a day-long market shutdown and torchlight procession on April 10, and extensive discussions from April 11 to prepare for an indefinite general strike. On Thursday morning from 8:30 a.m., local residents and businesspeople placed benches in the middle of the Postal Highway at Bariyarpatti Chowk, Ward No. 3, to obstruct traffic.

The blockade disrupted east-west transit along the highway. Meanwhile, the Siraha District Administration Office has issued a public notice urging that children not be used for political demonstrations, strikes, closures, blockades, sit-ins, or processions. Assistant Chief District Officer Chetraj Baral, in the notice, refers to Section 66(2)(6) of the Child Rights Act, 2075 (2018), which prohibits the use of children for political purposes. The administration has warned that any violation involving children in protests will result in strict legal action under existing laws.

India Reaffirms Commitment to Continuous Supply of Fertilizers and Fuel to Nepal

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The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized the multi-dimensional relationship between Nepal and India, reiterating its commitment to the continuous supply of petroleum products and chemical fertilizers. Spokesperson Randeep Jaishwal informed that, as per the existing agreements, supplies of petroleum products and chemical fertilizers are being regularly maintained in Nepal. Nepal has signed a government-to-government agreement with India for the procurement of chemical fertilizers, while a commercial relationship for petroleum products has been established for decades. April 24, Kathmandu.

During the weekly media briefing on Thursday, Indian MEA spokesperson Randeep Jaishwal highlighted the strong trade and strategic cooperation between the two countries. Responding to questions regarding the supply of essential commodities in Nepal, he confirmed that import-export processes between Nepal and India continue without interruption.

“Regarding petroleum products, we have been supplying fuel to Nepal in accordance with the existing cooperation agreements,” he stated. “This process will continue unchanged in the coming days.” Addressing the sensitive issue of chemical fertilizers vital for Nepal, India expressed a positive outlook. “We will fulfill Nepal’s requirements for chemical fertilizers,” he added. Recently, Nepal entered into a government-to-government (G2G) agreement with India for chemical fertilizer procurement. Additionally, for petroleum products, the Nepal Oil Corporation and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) have maintained a commercial relationship spanning decades.

Vijay Thalapathi Faces Obstacles in Forming Government Despite Winning Most Seats in Tamil Nadu

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In the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly elections in India, actor Vijay Thalapathi’s party, Tamilga Vettri Kadagam (TVK), has won the most seats, breaking the decades-long legacy of Dravidian parties. However, out of 234 assembly seats, TVK secured only 108 seats. Although becoming the largest party in the parliament, Thalapathi is facing difficulties in forming a government. To establish a majority government in the 234-member assembly, a minimum of 118 seats is required. Even three days after the election results were declared, Thalapathi has yet to secure a majority to form the government. On Thursday, the Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan (Governor’s office) issued a statement noting that TVK has not yet demonstrated a majority in the assembly.

“The Honourable Governor of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, met with Mr. C. Joseph Vijay (Vijay Thalapathi), President of TVK, today (May 7) at the Lok Bhavan in Chennai. During the meeting, the Governor informed that the required support for a majority in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to form a government has not been established,” the statement from the Governor’s office read. Although TVK holds 108 seats, it still needs at least 10 more seats to prove a majority. The Congress party, which has won five seats so far, has pledged support, but five more seats are still necessary. As TVK has not been able to establish a majority, Governor Arlekar has yet to invite Vijay Thalapathi to form the government. This has sparked intense debate in Tamil Nadu over why the Governor has not called upon the largest party to form the government after the elections.

Vijay is left with limited options. When no party or coalition secures a clear majority in the assembly, it is termed a “hung assembly” or “stalemate parliament.” The Tamil Nadu assembly election has resulted in such a stalemate, complicating government formation for the largest party, TVK. In this situation, the Governor’s decision not to invite the largest party to form the government raises significant questions. Additionally, there is speculation that an alliance government might be formed between the traditional rivals DMK and AIADMK, bypassing TVK. Meanwhile, TVK continues to strive to secure a majority to form the government.

If TVK plus its allies reach 119 seats, they would exceed the required majority. The second option for TVK is to form a minority government. Being the largest party, the Governor may still invite TVK to form the government. Once formed, TVK could strategize to bring other parties into its fold. The challenge posed by Vijay’s victory remains: despite trailing by 10 seats behind a majority, TVK needs at least 12 additional legislators to form the government. This is also because among the 108 seats won, Vijay Thalapathi himself won two, in Tiruchirappalli East and Perambur. By rule, he must vacate one seat, thereby reducing TVK’s tally to 107. Furthermore, when a Speaker is elected, they do not vote during confidence motions, which would reduce the number of voting members in TVK to 106.

Supreme Court Recommends Manojkumar Sharma as New Chief Justice

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Manojkumar Sharma has been recommended as the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. The Constitutional Council, chaired by Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ on Thursday evening, endorsed his appointment to the post, according to two council members. However, his official appointment as Nepal’s Chief Justice requires approval from the Parliamentary Hearing Committee.

Concerns have been raised regarding the recommendation, with National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal and Leader of the Opposition Bhishmaraj Andembey expressing dissent, citing that the seniority principle was not followed. Other attendees of the meeting have confirmed this information. According to Article 284 of Nepal’s Constitution, the Constitutional Council, presided over by the Prime Minister, is responsible for recommending the Chief Justice.

The Legal Council includes the Chief Justice, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chair of the National Assembly, Leader of the Opposition in the House, and Deputy Speaker of the House. Additionally, the Law and Justice Minister of the Government of Nepal is also a member of the Constitutional Council and participated in Thursday’s meeting, represented by Minister Sobita Gautam.

Experts have noted that it is a longstanding practice for the Constitutional Council to recommend the most senior Supreme Court judge as Chief Justice based on seniority. However, reports indicate that this tradition was broken in this instance. The appointment of the Chief Justice and other Supreme Court judges is formalized by the President.

Supreme Court Recommends Manojkumar Sharma as New Chief Justice

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Manojkumar Sharma has been recommended as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

On Thursday evening, the Constitutional Council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ recommended him for the appointment to the position, according to two council members.

He can only be appointed as Nepal’s Chief Justice after the Parliamentary Hearing Committee grants approval.

However, National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal and leader of the main opposition party, Bhishma Raj Angdembe, expressed dissenting opinions stating seniority was not followed, according to other participants at the meeting.

According to Article 284 of Nepal’s Constitution, the Constitutional Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, is responsible for recommending the appointment of the Chief Justice.

सर्वोच्च अदालतका न्यायाधीश शर्मा प्रधानन्यायाधीशमा सिफारिस

Supreme Court Judge Dr. Manoj Sharma Recommended as Chief Justice

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Supreme Court Judge Dr. Manoj Sharma has been recommended for the position of Chief Justice. The Judicial Council proposed Sharma as the prospective Chief Justice during its meeting on Thursday. Notably, Sharma is the first individual to be recommended as Chief Justice while ranking fourth in seniority among justices.

Kathmandu, 24 Baisakh – In a historic development for Nepal’s judiciary, a judge who ranks fourth in the seniority order has been recommended for the post of Chief Justice, a precedent in Nepalese judicial history. If approved by the Parliamentary Hearing Committee, he will become the 33rd Chief Justice. Appointed as a Supreme Court judge on 6 Baisakh 2076 (April 2019), Sharma is expected to serve the full six-year term as Chief Justice, pending parliamentary approval.

The Constitutional Council proposed Sharma for Chief Justice, superseding senior justices Kumar Regmi, Hari Phuyal, and legal professional Sapana Pradhan Malla, who hold higher seniority. Born on 4 Asar 2027 BS (June 1970) in Parsa, Sharma will turn 65 on 3 Asar 2092 BS (mid-June 2035). Since the restoration of democracy, no Chief Justice has completed the full six-year tenure. Should Sharma complete it, he will remain Chief Justice until Baisakh 2089 BS (April 2032).

Sharma earned his law degree from Nepal Law Campus and completed his postgraduate law studies at Pune University, India. He holds a PhD in labor law. He had initially served as an additional judge at the Appellate Court and retired after temporary judgeship provisions were abolished. Later, during the tenure of Chief Justice Cholendra Shamsher JBR, Sharma was recommended and ratified by parliamentary hearing as a Supreme Court judge.

Landslide Blocks Aankhukhaireni-Muglin Road

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The Aankhukhaireni–Muglin road has been blocked due to a dry landslide near the powerhouse area in Ward 4 of Aankhukhaireni Rural Municipality. Deputy Superintendent of Police Shravan Kumar Bik from the District Police Office stated that efforts are underway to clear the landslide and resume traffic on the highway. On 24th Baisakh, in Damauli (Tanahun), the road was obstructed after the landslide occurred near the powerhouse area of Ward 4 in Aankhukhaireni Rural Municipality. According to DSP Bik, efforts are ongoing to remove the debris and reopen the highway.

Five Armed Police Officers Honored for Rescuing Passengers Trapped in Roshi Flood

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Armed Police Force Nepal, Unit No. 15, honored five personnel with cash awards for rescuing 89 passengers stranded in the Roshi River following heavy rain on April 21. Deputy Inspector General Anjanikumar Pokharel, speaking at the unit’s 24th anniversary event, urged everyone to uphold discipline, dedication, and a spirit of public service to strengthen the organization. Chief District Officer Gopal Kumar Adhikari and Roshi Rural Municipality Chairperson Dinesh Lama both praised the Armed Police for their significant and commendable role during disasters. The event took place on April 24 in Kavrepalanchok.

Due to floods caused by rain on the night of April 21, passengers were trapped between Laskot, Roshi-7, and Ghumaune River along the BP Highway. The Armed Police rescue team was recognized and awarded cash for their courageous efforts in evacuating 89 passengers from five microbuses. The honored personnel from Armed Police Force, Nepal Unit No. 15, headquartered in Kavrepalanchok, included Assistant Inspector Bharat Nyaupane, Havildar Shrikrishna Karki, Havildar Buddhi Khadka, Assistant Havildar Kiran Kunwar, and Ashokjung Danuwar.

The five officers were commended for their exemplary display of bravery and professional skills that ensured the smooth and successful completion of the rescue operation, thereby enhancing the organization’s reputation. Additionally, Prashant Tamang, in charge of Panchkhal Police Post, and Indra Bahadur Raut, in charge of Devitar Police Station, were also felicitated. The rescue mission was led by Deputy Superintendent Ganpati Madhav Regmi and took place amidst rising river flows following continuous rain since the evening of April 21.

The 24th anniversary celebration of the Armed Police Force Nepal Unit No. 15, headquartered in Kavrepalanchok, featured the inauguration by Deputy Inspector General Anjanikumar Pokharel. He emphasized the Armed Police Force’s vital role in national security, disaster management, and citizen protection. Pokharel stressed the importance of reinforcing discipline, dedication to duty, and public service to make the organization more effective, calling on everyone to take responsibility in this regard. Chief District Officer Gopal Kumar Adhikari highlighted the force’s crucial involvement in maintaining peace and security and in carrying out rescue and relief efforts during disasters. Roshi Rural Municipality Chairperson Dinesh Lama pointed out that cooperation between local authorities and security agencies has directly benefited citizens, praising the Armed Police Force’s commendable performance during emergencies and disasters.

Local Elections Begin in the UK, Over a Dozen Candidates of Nepali Origin in the Race

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24 Baishakh, London – On Thursday, May 7, local elections have commenced in three of the United Kingdom’s four nations: England, Scotland, and Wales. Voting is underway for a total of 5,014 seats across 136 different local councils. Through this election, voters in Scotland and Wales will select representatives for their national parliaments, while in England, councillors and mayors will be elected in 30 councils. Additionally, mayoral elections are being held in six English local authorities, including Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Watford. Polling started at 7 a.m. and will continue until 10 p.m. Majority of the results are expected throughout Friday. This election is widely viewed as a barometer of public opinion on current Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration.

Starmer, who came into power with high expectations, ending 14 years of Conservative rule, has seen his popularity decline recently. A series of policy reversals, economic challenges, and unmet public expectations have weakened his image. While local elections typically focus on issues like roads, sanitation, and community services, this election carries significant implications for national politics. Voters will use this opportunity to express satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the government. Analysts warn that the Labour Party risks losing a substantial number of seats, potentially calling Starmer’s leadership into question. Meanwhile, the rise of alternative parties such as Reform UK on the right and the Green Party has continued to erode the traditional two-party dominance in the UK.

This local election also features several candidates of Nepali origin. According to reports, at least a dozen candidates with Nepali heritage are contesting under the Conservative Party. Candidates of Nepali origin are also running for Labour, Liberal Democrats, the Greens, and You Party, led by Jeremy Corbyn, bringing the total to more than fifteen. Among these candidates, some interesting coincidences appear: in certain boroughs, Nepali couples have stood for council positions, while in others, candidates of Nepali origin are competing against each other.

For instance, in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, former mayor Jeet Ranabhat is contesting from the Plumstead and Glyndon ward, while his wife, Gomaia Gurung, is standing in the Abbey Wood ward. Both represent the Labour Party. Narendra Kandel from the You Party, which is supported by Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership, is also a candidate in Plumstead and Glyndon ward. Similarly, in Aldershot’s Wellington ward, Dr. Vishal Gurung runs for the Conservative Party, while Uttar Bahadur Gurung is the Labour candidate. Each of these wards elects three councillors, so technically both Nepali-origin candidates could be elected; however, vote splitting might lead to one winning and the other losing.

Former Deputy Superintendent of Police Shivji Shrestha is also contesting from the Brighton Hill ward in Basingstoke for the Labour Party. Gyan Prasad Gurung is a Conservative candidate in Park South, Swindon, while Pratiksha Gurung contests for Labour in the Battle ward, Reading. Indrahang Limbu is running as a Conservative candidate in Feltham.

सरकारले तोक्यो स्वास्थ्य प्रतिष्ठान र अस्पतालमा निमित्त जिम्मेवारी (नामसहित)

Government Appoints Interim Leadership at Health Institutions and Hospitals

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The government has designated interim leaderships at various health science institutions and hospitals until permanent appointments are made. The Ministry of Health has assigned short-term responsibilities to professors and doctors at institutions including Patan, Pokhara, and Karnali. The ministry also announced plans to soon conduct open competitions and select permanent leaders based on merit.

Kathmandu, 24 Baishakh – The government has issued interim appointments at health science institutions and certain hospitals. According to the Secretariat of Health Minister Nisha Mehta, these temporary assignments aim to ensure uninterrupted essential operations until full-time leadership is appointed. The ministry has entrusted Prof. Dr. Samita Pant with interim responsibility at Patan Health Science Institute, Dr. Narendra Bikram Gurung at Pokhara Health Science Institute, and Associate Prof. Dr. Binamra Bist at Karnali Health Science Institute.

Similarly, Associate Prof. Dr. Indra Limbu has been assigned at B.P. Koirala Health Science Institute (Dharan), Associate Prof. Dr. Suresh Rasaily at Rapti Health Science Institute, Dr. Umesh Nepal at B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, and Associate Prof. Dr. Ravindrabhakta Timala at Shahid Gangalal National Heart Center. The Secretariat also stated that Shakuntala Prajapati has been appointed interim head of the Health Insurance Board.

The Secretariat emphasized that the ministry remains committed to reform in the health sector and will not compromise on selecting qualified leadership. Efforts are underway to expedite open competitions to fill permanent leadership positions strictly on merit. The government has clearly mandated that leadership selections be conducted through open competition based solely on merit. A recent ordinance addressing the dismissal of public officials led to vacancies in leadership across these health bodies. To ensure no disruption in patient care, daily services, and administrative functions during this period, the ministry promptly appointed interim chiefs.

First Sighting of Venomous King Cobra in Gadhwa

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The king cobra, considered the world’s largest venomous snake, has been sighted for the first time in Gadhwa. The snake was found in the house of Sushila, a resident of Gadhwa Rural Municipality–7, Lakshinpur. Snake rescuer Shivu Khanal rescued the snake from the house at 8 PM on Wednesday night. The Division Forest Office Deukhuri was informed immediately after the sighting.

Following the report, two forest officers arrived at the scene under Khanal’s leadership. After an hour of efforts, Khanal confirmed that the snake was safely captured alive. The snake was later released in the Ajammari Community Forest of Lamahi Municipality–5. According to rescuer Khanal, the snake weighed approximately 8 kilograms and measured 10 feet in length.

New Area Administration Office Established in Melouli, Baitadi

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An Area Administration Office has been established in Melouli, Baitadi. The office was inaugurated by Shivraj Bhatt, Minister for Industry, Tourism, Forests, and Environment of Sudurpashchim Province government. This office aims to provide accessible and efficient services to residents of Melouli Municipality, Pancheshwar Rural Municipality, Shivanath Rural Municipality, and Patan Municipality. (April 24, Baitadi)

Located in Melouli Municipality–1, the new Area Administration Office was officially opened by Minister Shivraj Bhatt of Sudurpashchim Province. During the inauguration ceremony, a citizenship certificate was handed over to Deepak Awasthi from Melouli–7, marking the start of the office’s services.

With the operation of this office, it is expected that citizens from Melouli Municipality, Pancheshwar Rural Municipality, Shivanath Rural Municipality, and several wards of Patan Municipality will gain direct benefits. District Chief Officer Dr. Dijan Bhattarai stated that the office was established with the goal of delivering prompt, convenient, and functional services to local residents.

Dr. Bhattarai expressed confidence that the need to travel to the district headquarters for routine administrative tasks will gradually be eliminated. Local resident Karan Singh Negi highlighted that the establishment of the office will put an end to the difficulties faced in traveling to the district headquarters for citizenship and national identity card-related procedures. Mahesh Bhatt, the head of the Area Administration Office, committed to making service delivery even more effective.

तीन व्यावसायिक फर्मलाई वाणिज्य विभागको ७५ हजार जरिबाना

Commerce Department Imposes Fines Totaling NPR 75,000 on Three Business Firms

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The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has imposed fines amounting to NPR 75,000 on three business firms in Kathmandu for activities detrimental to consumer interests. Luga Jutta Pvt. Ltd. was fined NPR 50,000, Shrestha Cosmetics Shop NPR 15,000, and Pooja Shrungar NPR 10,000, according to the department.

Kathmandu, 24 Baishakh – During a market inspection, the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection fined three business firms a total of NPR 75,000 for engaging in activities that violate consumer rights. The fines were levied following the department’s crackdown on firms that failed to comply with directives issued under the Consumer Protection Act 2075 and its regulations of 2076, during inspections carried out Thursday across various locations in Kathmandu.

The department reported that Luga Jutta Pvt. Ltd., located in Gongabu-26 ward of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, was fined NPR 50,000. Similarly, Shrestha Cosmetics Shop in New Baneshwor was fined NPR 15,000, and Pooja Shrungar in Gongabu was fined NPR 10,000. Additionally, during the monitoring, the department issued advisory notices to 10 other industries and firms.

Lumbini Province Government Assigns Responsibilities to Secretaries

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The Lumbini Province government has assigned responsibilities to the secretaries of various ministries. In a meeting of the provincial council, Ram Parajuli was appointed as the Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure Development. Januka Pandit was appointed as the Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land Management, and Cooperatives, and Anil Marasini was assigned as the Director of the Transport Infrastructure Directorate. (24 Baisakh, Lumbini)

In today’s meeting, the Lumbini Province government designated Ram Parajuli as the Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure Development. Januka Pandit was entrusted with the Secretary role for the Ministry of Agriculture, Land Management, and Cooperatives. According to Health Minister Khem Bahadur Saru, Anil Marasini has been assigned the responsibility of Director of the Provincial Transport Infrastructure Directorate.

The meeting also recommended the federal government establish a center in Ward No. 5, Chapattari, within Isma Rural Municipality of Gulmi district. Additionally, the procedure titled ‘Guidelines for Study Pre-Approval and Study Leave Approval, 2083’ was approved.

Another Corruption Case Registered in Pokhara Airport Construction, Several Former Ministers Arrested

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The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has registered a new case alleging corruption in the construction of Pokhara Airport. Several former ministers have been named as defendants, and the hearing process is underway in a special court. Previously, the CIAA had already filed a case against the same corruption charges. 24th Baishakh, Kathmandu.

In relation to corruption allegations in the construction of Pokhara Airport, the CIAA has initiated a fresh case. Sources from CIAA confirm that several ex-ministers have been listed as defendants, and the case is currently proceeding in a special court. Earlier, the CIAA had also filed a case concerning corruption tied to the Pokhara Airport project.

On 21st Mangsir, a corruption case was filed including five ministers as defendants. Subsequently, on 8th Chaitra, another case was registered regarding corruption in the airport’s construction. The case was filed against 21 individuals, including then Tourism Secretary Kedar Bahadur Adhikari, and two companies as third-party defendants.