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Millions of Smartphones to Lose WhatsApp Support from September 2026

WhatsApp has announced that starting September 8, 2026, it will no longer support smartphones running Android versions older than 6.0. Due to the inability to provide new features and security updates on these outdated Android versions, the company has taken this step. This means millions of smartphones will lose access to WhatsApp this year.

With WhatsApp’s system updates planned for 2026 by Meta, WhatsApp will stop functioning on millions of older Android smartphone models. From September 8 onward, WhatsApp will no longer work on devices running Android versions below 6.0. Phones operating on Android 5.0 or 5.1 will see WhatsApp completely disabled.

WhatsApp has been progressively discontinuing support for older devices to ensure users can benefit from the latest features and enhanced security. Older models typically do not support new updates, posing increased security risks. This issue is especially significant in developing and third-world countries, where many users still rely on smartphones that are 8 to 10 years old.

Support for models such as the Samsung Galaxy S4, Nexus 4, and LG G2 has already been discontinued. Starting this September, WhatsApp has begun sending notifications to users whose devices will no longer be supported. If your phone is running Android older than 6.0, you can expect to receive a notification from WhatsApp soon. In this situation, you have two options: first, if your phone supports an Android update, upgrade to a newer version; if an update is not possible, you will need to purchase a new phone to continue using WhatsApp.

Rastriya Swatantra Party MP Khanal Highlights Need for Ambulance Services in Agriculture

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) MP KP Khanal has called for the initiation of agricultural ambulance services to assist farmers in delivering their harvested crops to markets promptly. He described the agricultural ambulance as a critical oxygen supply for the agriculture sector’s ICU and emphasized the necessity to launch this service in the upcoming fiscal year.

During a meeting of the Agriculture Committee at Singha Durbar on Wednesday, MP Khanal stated, “Just as ambulances arrive when a person falls ill, an ambulance service must also be available when farmers’ crops are in a precarious condition.” He further added, “Vehicles worth millions sustain the country, yet if we cannot provide farmers—who truly sustain the nation—with agricultural ambulances costing five to seven lakh rupees, what achievements can we claim in key agricultural areas?”

He also highlighted the importance of soil testing and stressed the need to end the situation where farmers discard their produce on roadsides, resulting in consumers paying higher prices. Khanal said, “The agricultural ambulance is essential to break the monopolies of middlemen and to convert farmers’ hard work into cash.” He drew attention to the fact that approximately 20 to 35 percent of Nepal’s locally produced fruits and vegetables get spoiled before reaching the market due to inadequate transportation and storage facilities.

Arsenal Reaches Champions League Final After 20 Years

English football club Arsenal has secured a place in the European Champions League final after 20 years. In the second leg of the semifinal, Arsenal defeated Atlético Madrid 1-0, maintaining a 2-1 advantage on aggregate. The final will be held on May 30 at Hungary’s Puskás Arena against the winner of the Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) matchup. April 23, Kathmandu.

Last night, in the second leg of the semifinal, Arsenal from London advanced to the final by beating the Spanish club Atlético Madrid 1-0. The first leg had ended in a 1-1 draw. At Arsenal’s home ground, the Emirates Stadium, Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal in the 45th minute off a pass from Leandro Trossard to put the team ahead.

Atlético had chances to score but failed to capitalize. Arsenal will now face the winner between Bayern Munich and PSG in the final. In the first leg, PSG defeated Bayern Munich 5-4. Arsenal last played in a Champions League final during the 2005-06 season, where they finished as runners-up, losing 2-1 to Barcelona. This marks their second time reaching the final, and Arsenal is aiming to win the Champions League title for the first time.

प्रधानन्यायाधीशको सिफारिसमा परम्परा जोगिएला कि तोडिएला ?

Will the Tradition of Appointing the Chief Justice Be Maintained or Broken?

Prime Minister Balen Shah is preparing to recommend the appointment of the Chief Justice by convening a Constitutional Council meeting on Thursday afternoon. Following a new ordinance that allows decisions by a majority of three members within the Constitutional Council, concerns have risen that the most senior judge may not be recommended. The possibility of appointing a judge other than the senior-most judge as Chief Justice, breaking tradition, has caused uncertainty and anxiety within judicial circles. April 23, Kathmandu.

Prime Minister and Chairman of the Constitutional Council, Balen Shah, has called a meeting of the Constitutional Council for Thursday afternoon. The Secretariat of the Constitutional Council sent letters to the members on Wednesday, including an agenda to recommend the Chief Justice appointment. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers’ office, the letters were sent to Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal, Law Minister Sobita Gautam, Leader of Opposition in the House of Representatives Bhishma Raj Angdembe, and Deputy Speaker Ruby Kumari.

According to Article 129(3) of Nepal’s Constitution, “A person who has served as a Supreme Court judge for at least three years shall be eligible for appointment as Chief Justice.” However, this time, rumors are circulating that the National Independent Party and Prime Minister Balen Shah may break this precedent and appoint a judge other than the senior-most as Chief Justice. Meanwhile, several senior Supreme Court judges are reportedly concerned and confused about this development.

Sources connected to the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office indicate that there are reasons to suspect the judicial practice of appointing the Chief Justice may be broken this time. Firstly, some senior leaders of the National Independent Party have expressed that they might break the previous precedent in the leadership selection of the judiciary this time. The Prime Minister-associated team showing interest in certain other judges recommended has strengthened their suspicions.

35,000 NPR Bail Granted to Accused Involved in Vandalism in Saptari

April 6, Saptari — Rajkishor Yadav, accused of vandalizing public property during the Janajati movement, was granted bail of 35,000 Nepalese rupees by the District Court of Saptari. The court, presided over by District Judge Shambhu Gautam, ordered Yadav’s release on bail.

Yadav is alleged to have participated in the vandalism at the home of Saroj Ranisingh Yadav near the Bodebarsain Municipality Office and the District Administration Office. The mayor of Bodebarsain Municipality, Ateshkumar Singh, along with Saroj Ranisingh Yadav, filed complaints against him. Based on this complaint, a case related to criminal disturbance was registered against 11 individuals, including Yadav, on February 26. Yadav appeared before the Saptari District Court on Wednesday for his case. Previously, other accused individuals registered in the same case — Rajukumar Yadav, Rameshkumar Sah, and Surendraprasad Sah — were released on bail.

India-China Agreement Not Valid for Nepal, Says Ganesh Parajuli

News Summary

Reviewed news.

  • Deputy leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party parliamentary faction Ganesh Parajuli stated that the trade agreement made between two neighboring countries in the Lipulekh area is not acceptable to Nepal.
  • Parajuli confirmed that the government is taking the border dispute seriously and has already sent a diplomatic note.
  • The government is committed to resolving the issue through dialogue and has initiated necessary measures.

April 6, Kathmandu – Ganesh Parajuli, Deputy Leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party parliamentary faction, declared that the trade agreement made between two neighboring countries in the Lipulekh area is not valid for Nepal.

Parajuli made these remarks while addressing journalists after the party’s parliamentary faction meeting on Wednesday.

He confirmed that the government is addressing the border dispute with seriousness and has sent a diplomatic note regarding the matter.

Parajuli expressed objection to the bilateral agreement related to Lipulekh made by the two neighboring countries without informing Nepal.

He emphasized that sensitive issues like border disputes must be resolved through diplomatic and political dialogue rather than provocations.

According to him, the government is preparing to advance this process and is committed to finding a solution through dialogue.

Clarifying the government’s position, Parajuli stated, “The trade agreement made by two neighboring countries without our knowledge is unacceptable to us. The government has taken a clear stance to resolve the border dispute through dialogue and has sent a diplomatic note.”

He added that further comments on the issue are unnecessary as the government has already initiated the necessary actions.

Preoperative Immunotherapy Successfully Keeps Colon Cancer Patients Cancer-Free for Three Years

Researchers at University College London have demonstrated that immunotherapy administered for up to nine weeks before surgery can keep colon cancer patients cancer-free for three years. In 59 percent of patients, no cancer residue was detected during surgery, and no recurrence was observed 33 months later. Dr. Kai-Kin Siu described pembrolizumab as a safe and effective treatment. (April 23, Kathmandu)

A significant breakthrough has been achieved in the treatment of colon cancer. A clinical trial led by University College London researchers found that short-term immunotherapy prior to surgery successfully maintained patients free of cancer for approximately three years. This advancement poses a major challenge to traditional treatment methods, which involve surgery followed by months of chemotherapy. The study, named ‘NeoPrism-CRC,’ included patients with stage II and III colon cancer.

Participants received the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab for up to nine weeks before surgery. Initial results revealed that 59 percent of these patients showed no cancer residue at the time of surgery, and at 33 months of follow-up, no cancer recurrence was detected. This outcome is considered significantly more effective compared to conventional treatment, where around 25 percent of patients who undergo surgery followed by chemotherapy experience cancer recurrence within three years. The new approach appears capable of fully eradicating cancer and preventing its return.

Based on the treatment’s success, researchers have developed a personalized blood test that can detect residual cancer DNA at an early stage. This technology will enable physicians to determine precisely which patients require additional therapy and which do not. Dr. Kai-Kin Siu, the lead investigator, expressed enthusiasm over the absence of cancer recurrence in any patient over three years, reinforcing confidence in pembrolizumab as a safe and effective treatment for high-risk colon cancer patients.

Seventy-three-year-old trial participant Christopher Burston shared his experience, noting that doctors described his post-surgery result as ‘cancer melted and gone.’ The immunotherapy had an immediate effect, leading to his recovery from stage III cancer, and he now lives a normal life. This treatment is particularly effective for patients with the genetic subtype known as MMR-deficient/MSI-high colon cancer. According to scientists, immunotherapy activates the body’s immune system against cancer, resulting in a long-lasting and robust effect.

Japan Clinches Title at Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Sevens Championship

Japan secured the championship title at the Asia Rugby Emirates Women’s Sevens held in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Japanese team overcame Kazakhstan and Hong Kong China to claim the top position in the tournament. The awards were presented by Tnkalal Ghising, the outgoing member-secretary of the National Sports Council (NSC).

The competition featured Asia’s top three ranked teams — Japan, Hong Kong China, and Kazakhstan — competing in a single round-robin format. Japan clinched the title by defeating Kazakhstan in their opening match and then overcoming Hong Kong China in the second. The final league match between Kazakhstan and Hong Kong China is scheduled for May 10.

The victorious Japanese squad received their awards from Tnkalal Ghising, outgoing member-secretary of the National Sports Council and also the Vice President of Asia Rugby, who served as the chief guest for the award ceremony. Following the event, Ghising took to Facebook to express his honor in attending the ceremony, stating, “I feel privileged to participate in the Asia Rugby awards event held in Almaty. Heartfelt congratulations to Japan for their victory. Your discipline, teamwork, and enthusiasm have truly set a new standard of excellence in Asian rugby.”

अञ्जनको काँधमा निजी क्षेत्र, शक्तिशाली सरकारलाई नयाँ साझेदार

Private Sector Leadership Under Anjan Shrestha: New Partners for a Powerful Government

Leadership of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has transitioned from Chandra Prasad Dhakal to Anjan Shrestha. Shrestha has committed to redefining the relationship between the private sector and the government over the next three years, amplifying the private sector’s voice in policy-making processes. During Dhakal’s tenure, an investment-friendly environment was fostered and an Economic Reform Recommendation Commission was established to position the private sector as a development partner. (April 6, Kathmandu)

More than 500,000 entrepreneurs and businesspeople across the country are connected in some way to the Federation led by this handover. Despite economic fluctuations and challenges, Dhakal provided effective leadership and has entrusted the Federation’s significant responsibilities to Anjan Shrestha. Upon stepping down, Dhakal expressed greater confidence in opportunity than pessimism amid these economic challenges.

Business leaders have long identified political instability as the root cause of policy inconsistency. Through the elections held on March 5, 2026 (21 Falgun 2082 BS), the people endorsed the National Independent Party (Rastriya Swatantra Party) to form a near two-thirds majority powerful government in the country. In this context, according to Shrestha, “The central goal of private sector leadership over the next three years will be to partner and collaborate effectively with this strong government.”

The private sector contributes approximately 82 percent to Nepal’s economy and accounts for 86 percent of employment. Shrestha has indicated that the new leadership plans to play an active role in protecting entrepreneurs’ interests, boosting morale, and expanding the economy. At the Federation’s 60th Annual General Meeting, Shrestha analyzed the opportunities and challenges facing the economy as the prospective leader.

A Divine Journey from Sarayu to Ganga

News Summary

Generated and editorially reviewed.

  • During the three-day journey, the group visited the ancient cities of Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Varanasi for religious bathing and spiritual sightseeing.

The human mind is mysterious. Sometimes it is as calm and steady as still water, and at other times as chaotic as a storm. Amid the busy life of medical practice, white hospital walls, and patients’ sighs, there was a hidden spiritual thirst. This thirst, combined with limited time, gave birth to a plan.

For ordinary tourists, this might seem ‘impossible,’ but for devotees, it was like a ‘grand festival.’ The journey was set for three days, from Thursday to Sunday, but the destinations included three ancient sacred cities—Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Varanasi—each rich with countless spiritual experiences. Many called it a ‘tiring trip,’ but for me, it felt like a ‘spiritual marathon.’

Early Thursday morning, after swiftly completing routine tasks, our team departed from Biratnagar. The group included myself, my wife Somani, son Biplav, daughter Bandana, sister-in-law Rambha, elder sister Ahilya, and the driver Kuldeep.

Kuldeep’s vehicle with Indian license plates was not just a mode of transportation; it was a moving ‘small home,’ fueled by trust and enthusiasm.

1. Ayodhya: The Cool Touch of the Sarayu

The long road journey from Biratnagar brought us to the sacred soil of Ayodhya at 2 a.m. Thursday night. The city was asleep, but our hearts awakened to a new consciousness. After a brief four-hour rest, at 6 a.m. on the full moon day of Vaishakh Shukla, we reached the bank of the Sarayu River.

We bathed at the ‘New Ghat’ of the Sarayu River, which is believed to have originated from the tears of Lord Vishnu. On the auspicious occasions of Buddha Jayanti and Vaishakh Shukla Purnima, the cool and pure waters of Sarayu washed away the fatigue of the long journey.

There is a special tranquility in this river’s water that teaches respect and dignity. After bathing, we visited Hanuman Garhi and had the opportunity to see the newly built magnificent Ram temple. The grand statue of Ram Lala gave a sense that the first leg of this marathon was successfully completed.

2. Prayagraj: The Depth of the Sangam

Carrying prasad from Ayodhya, our vehicle headed straight to Prayagraj (Allahabad). This was the second and very important part of the marathon. Not wanting to miss the full moon bath, despite daytime crowds and traffic jams, we reached the Triveni Sangam by 5 p.m.

Prayagraj is known as ‘Tirthraj’ or the king of pilgrimage sites. It is the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati rivers. We reached the central part of the confluence and witnessed the clear boundary between the blue Yamuna and the white Ganga waters.

Bathing together at the Sangam is more than cleansing the body; it symbolizes the dissolution of ego and impurities. According to ancient beliefs, bathing at Sangam during Vaishakh Purnima is equivalent to performing an Ashwamedha Yajna, bringing great merit. After the bath and paying respects to the famous sleeping Hanuman, our journey turned towards Varanasi.

3. Varanasi: The Confluence of Devotion and Flavor

The group arrived in Varanasi (Kashi) at midnight. Our vehicle moved through the streets in front of the ancient city. Although modernity has crept into this sacred city, cultural and religious traditions remain preserved. This city that never sleeps openly embraces the cyclical nature of life and death on a single ghats. After a brief rest, early Saturday at 6 a.m., we arrived at the sacred banks of the Ganga.

We took a dip at the oldest and still active Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. It is said that Brahma performed ten Ashwamedha Yajnas at this very spot. Bathing in the river’s waves was an extraordinary experience filled with energy. After bathing, we entered the Kashi Vishwanath temple through the grand ‘Corridor’ (Gate No. 2), ending a long wait. This fusion of modern engineering and ancient faith has transformed Kashi.

Following the darshan of Vishwanath, paying respects to the ‘Kotwal’ Kal Bhairav marked the completion of our journey. We lingered for a long time wandering the narrow alleys, which seemed endless and similar. Eventually, with the help of Google Maps, we found our way out.

Not savoring the streets and flavors of Varanasi would have left the trip incomplete. The thick, creamy lassi served in earthen pots, local sweets, and the famed Banarasi paan made the journey even more memorable.

We also encountered the viral ‘Litti Line’ of Varanasi on social media, and the actual taste of the litti chaat was truly remarkable. Wandering through the narrow pathways while hearing ‘Har Har Mahadev’ echoed brought joy to my heart.

At 6:40 p.m. Saturday, we returned to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti. As seven priests performed the grand puja together lifting the aarti lamps, conch sounds echoed, and thousands of floating lights adorned the river waves, it felt like witnessing divine power in its truest form.

The shimmering lights and reflections created a feeling of being in another world. This was the most beautiful and emotional moment of this ‘spiritual marathon.’

4. Final Phase: The Journey Home

At 9 p.m. Saturday, bidding farewell to Varanasi, we began the journey home. The challenge was to rest on Sunday and return to routine work on Monday. The vehicle moved all night, leaving behind the yellow road lights. Occasional sips of tea and small rests helped us sustain.

At noon Sunday, we reached our own courtyard in Biratnagar. Thus concluded the three-day ‘spiritual marathon.’ This journey was not merely a geographical tour, but a dialogue between a ‘doctor’ and his inner spirituality, along with family responsibilities.

Marathons are run for medals, but in this marathon, we ran for inner peace and family bonding. Carrying the dignity of Sarayu, the wisdom of Sangam, and the devotion of Kashi in our hearts and returning home was the greatest achievement of this journey.

This divine journey has given us lifelong energy, which will remain an invaluable treasure for me and my family.

Trump Warns of Major Bombing if No Deal Is Reached with Iran

April 23, Kathmandu: US President Donald Trump has issued a warning of a large-scale bombing if no agreement is reached with Iran. On Wednesday, through Truth Social, Trump publicly stated that if Iran agrees to a deal, both war and blockade will end, but if not, a massive bombing will follow.

“War and blockade with Iran could end with a deal,” he wrote, “but if Iran fails to reach an agreement, bombing is likely to become more intense and widespread. The unfortunate reality is that this bombing will be many times larger and more severe than before.” Trump added that if Iran agrees and takes necessary steps, it would be a “major achievement.” In that case, he said, “Operation Epic Fury” would be immediately terminated.

चामलमा विषादी भेटिएको भन्दै परेको मुद्दा उपभोक्ता अदालतमा दर्ता नै भएन

Consumer Court Rejects Petition on Excessive Pesticide Use in Rice

The Consumer Court has issued an order to reject the case filed on the allegation of excessive pesticide use in rice. Senior Advocate Vishnu Prasad Timilsina had demanded that rice should only be imported and distributed after pesticide testing according to established standards. A study by Progressive Sustainable Developers revealed pesticide residues in 83 percent of rice samples. (22 Baisakh, Kathmandu)

The Consumer Court dismissed the case lodged against the excessive use of pesticides in rice and other food items. Shrestedar of the Consumer Court, Shishir Lamichhane, issued the order not to register the case two days ago. The lawsuit was filed citing widespread pesticide use in rice and other food products that are part of consumers’ everyday meals.

Senior Advocate Vishnu Prasad Timilsina filed the case on behalf of the Consumer Interest Protection Forum. He alleged that imported rice in Nepal is treated with excessive pesticides and called for regulations ensuring rice is allowed entry and distribution only after completing pesticide testing. Last year, research by Progressive Sustainable Developers identified pesticide contamination in food products.

The petition submitted to the Consumer Court stated that long-term consumption of pesticides could increase the risk of serious diseases such as cancer. This case is also the first collective lawsuit since the establishment of the Consumer Court. The petition demanded action citing health risks to consumers caused by service providers’ negligence and weak regulatory oversight.

A Spiritual Journey from Sarayu to the Ganges

Over a three-day journey, we partook in sacred baths and spiritual visits in the ancient cities of Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Varanasi. The human mind is a mystery—sometimes calm like a still pond, at other times wild like a storm. Amidst my busy medical career, hospital white walls, and patients’ sighs, there lay a hidden spiritual thirst. That thirst, coupled with a brief leave, gave birth to a plan. What might seem ‘impossible’ to an ordinary tourist became a ‘celebration’ for devotees. The three-day journey from Thursday to Sunday covered three legendary cities and countless spiritual experiences. While many might call it a ‘weary trip,’ for me it was a ‘spiritual marathon.’ On Thursday morning, after finishing regular work in haste, our group departed from Biratnagar. The team included myself, my better half Somani, our son Biplak, daughter Bandana, sister-in-law Rambha, elder sister Ahilya, and our journey’s guide, Kuldeep. The vehicle bearing an Indian license plate was more than just transportation—it was a moving ‘small home’ fueled by trust and excitement.

1. Ayodhya: The Cool Touch of the Sarayu
Our long road trip from Biratnagar brought us to the sacred soil of Ayodhya by 2 a.m. on Thursday night. While the city slept, our spirits were wide awake. After a short rest of just four hours, at 6 a.m. on the auspicious day of Vaishakh Shukla Purnima, we reached the banks of the Sarayu River. We bathed at the ‘New Ghat,’ where the river is said to originate from the tears of Lord Vishnu. Immersing ourselves in the cool, pure waters of the Sarayu on the holy occasion of Buddha Jayanti and Vaishakh Purnima cleared the fatigue of the long journey. There is a unique serenity in this river’s waters that teaches one dignity. After bathing, we visited the Hanuman Garhi and the newly constructed grand Ram Temple. The divine image of Lord Ram made the first leg of this marathon a memorable success.

2. Prayagraj: Depths of the Sangam
Carrying the blessings of Ayodhya, our vehicle headed directly to Prayagraj (Allahabad), the crucial second phase of our marathon. We did not want to miss the full moon bath, so despite the afternoon heat and traffic jams, we reached the banks of the Triveni Sangam by 5 p.m. Prayagraj is known as ‘Tirtharaj,’ the king of pilgrimage sites, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati rivers converge. We stood in the middle of the confluence, witnessing the clear border between the blue water of the Yamuna and the white water of the Ganga—an awe-inspiring sight. Bathing as a family in the waters of this confluence was not merely physical cleansing but a symbolic purification of ego and flaws. According to legend, bathing in the Sangam during Vaishakh Purnima is considered as meritorious as performing the Ashvamedha Yagna. Following the bath, we visited the famous sleeping Hanuman before turning our journey towards Varanasi.

3. Varanasi: Confluence of Devotion and Flavor
Our group arrived in Varanasi (Kashi) at midnight. As our vehicle moved through narrow streets, we witnessed a city where tradition remains deeply rooted despite modernity. This restless city embraces life and death together at the same ghats. After a brief rest, at 6 a.m. on Saturday we reached the sacred banks of the Ganges and bathed at the historic and vibrant Dashashwamedh Ghat, where Lord Brahma is said to have performed ten Ashvamedha Yagnas. Bathing in the river’s waves infused us with extraordinary energy. We then entered the grand Kashi Vishwanath Temple through the newly constructed ‘Corridor’ (Gate No. 2), ending a long wait. The fusion of modern engineering with ancient faith has transformed Kashi’s landscape. After darshan of Lord Vishwanath, we paid homage to Kotwal Kalbhairav. We wandered lost through the countless narrow lanes, finally emerging with help from Google Maps. To visit Varanasi without tasting its cuisine is like an incomplete pilgrimage. The thick, creamy lassi served in earthen pots, local sweets, and the famous flavorful Banarasi paan made this experience unforgettable. We also found the much-talked-about Varanasi ‘Litti’ shop whose litti chaat was truly exceptional. Getting lost in the narrow alleys and hearing the chant of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ was a unique delight. At 6:40 p.m. on Saturday, we returned to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti. Seven priests performed a magnificent ritual together, lifting lit diya lamps, the sound of conch shells resounding, and thousands of floating lights on the river waves evoked a palpable sense of divine power. The shimmering lights and reflections created a transcendent atmosphere—truly the most beautiful and emotional moment of this spiritual marathon.

4. Final Stretch: The Return Journey
At 9 p.m. on Saturday, we bid farewell to Varanasi, leaving for home with the intention to rest on Sunday and resume regular work on Monday. The ride continued through the night, the yellow road lights gradually fading behind us. We stopped intermittently for tea and brief rests to rejuvenate our bodies. By noon on Sunday, we arrived safely back at our home in Biratnagar, marking the successful completion of this three-day spiritual marathon. This trip was not merely a geographic tour; it was a manifestation of a doctor’s hidden faith and an inner dialogue with the soul, alongside fulfilling family responsibilities. While usual marathons are run for medals, our marathon was run in quest of spiritual peace and family togetherness. Carrying the dignity of the Sarayu, the wisdom of the Sangam, and the devotion of Kashi in our hearts, we returned home. This divine run has bestowed upon my family and me a revitalizing energy that will be a priceless treasure for a lifetime.

Man Fatally Stabbed in Kirtipur; Police Detain Three Suspects

In Kirtipur, three individuals have been arrested on charges of fatally stabbing Bipin Ghimire during the day. Those detained include Ashish Maharjan, Roshan Bohora, and Rabin Dhami. The murder occurred in Kirtipur Municipality–10, Podetol area, and Ghimire was declared dead by doctors upon being admitted to the hospital. April 5, Kathmandu.

The police have taken three suspects into custody for interrogation following the daytime stabbing of a young man in Kirtipur. According to senior police sources, 22-year-old Ashish Maharjan, residing in Hanumanghat, Kirtipur Municipality–9; 21-year-old Roshan Bohora from Dilasaini Rural Municipality–3, Baitadi, now living in Tangla Phant, Kirtipur; and 23-year-old Rabin Dhami from Bardgoria Rural Municipality–4, Kailali, currently residing near Panga Dobato, Kirtipur, were temporarily detained for questioning.

According to SP Pawan Kumar Bhattarai of the Kathmandu District Police Office, at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, Bipin Ghimire, originally from Dhurkot, Gulmi, and residing in Kirtipur, was attacked with a sharp weapon. Ghimire was immediately taken to Kirtipur Hospital, where medical professionals pronounced him dead. Police reports indicate that the incident stemmed from a dispute among friends.

Significant Setback for Established Dominant Regional Parties

The results of the 2026 assembly elections held in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry have introduced a new chapter in national politics. The collective outcome of these five states demonstrates an unprecedented rise in the political strength of the BJP. This has raised serious questions about the future of some established regional parties. Most notably, the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal has come to an end, with the BJP assuming power for the first time with a two-thirds majority—a major political upset in this election.

There has also been a significant shift in South Indian politics this time. In Tamil Nadu, the longstanding Dravidian political legacy has taken a major hit with the emergence of new forces. In Kerala, the leftist front (LDF), which had been in power for the past 10 years, was defeated, leading to the return of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). In the Northeast, the BJP has further consolidated its hold in Assam, achieving a historic ‘hat-trick’ of victories, setting a new benchmark.

In Puducherry, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the NR Congress, has retained power, reaffirming its political continuity. The BJP’s historic breakthrough in West Bengal stands out as the most surprising political transformation. In the 2021 elections, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) had secured 213 seats with 47.9% of the vote share, dominating the political landscape; however, this election proved to be highly unfavorable for the party.

There were notable variations in vote percentages among parties; the BJP led with 45.56% of the vote, while the TMC’s share dropped to 40.94%. The BJP improved its vote share by 6.78%, whereas the TMC declined by 6.51%. This election was also memorable due to its high voter turnout. Voter participation rose from 81.8% in 2021 to an exceptional 92.47% this year, marking one of the highest turnout rates since independence.