April 30, Kathmandu – Leaders and activists of Nepali Congress Sudurpashchim who gathered in Kathmandu have decided not to proceed with updating active memberships. According to a party leader, membership renewals have already been completed for the 15th general convention and the party levy has been paid; therefore, no further membership updates will be carried out. The meeting of Sudurpashchim leaders and activists was held at Anandabhumi Event Venue, New Baneshwor, on Thursday.
The gathering also requested active members of Nepali Congress Sudurpashchim to refrain from updating or renewing their memberships. Participants included Province Assembly President of Sudurpashchim Nepali Congress, Virbahadur Baliyar; former central members NP Saud, Ramesh Lekhak, Nainsingh Mahar, Dr. Ranbahadur Rawal, Nrip Wad, Sushila Mishra Bhatt, Govind Bahadur Shah, and Bidya Timalsina.
Additionally, former invited central member Anand Bista; district presidents Padam Bogati of Kanchanpur, Narayan Bhatt of Kailali, Narendra Bahadur Singh of Doti, Bhim Bahadur Saud of Dadeldhura, and Khadak Bohara of Bajhang were present. Other attendees included former parliamentarian Akkal Bista; former district president of Bajura Kaviraj Pandit; Kanchanpur district vice president Min Bahadur Singh; central committee members Dr. Uttar Bahadur Air, Pushpakumar Shahi, Ganesh Bista; Sudurpashchim Nepal Student Union president Kapil KC; and central member of Nepal National Students’ Union Ramesh Kunwar among other leaders.
April 30, Rolpa — Rescue efforts following a jeep accident in Thawang Rural Municipality-1, which claimed 20 lives, were suspended after nightfall. Due to heavy rainfall and the onset of darkness, local authorities have reported that the identification and delivery of the deceased to their families remain pending. According to Ganga Bahadur Kshetri, the Chief District Officer of Rolpa, the bodies of all 20 victims have been recovered from the accident site and consolidated at a single location. Rescue operations are set to resume at first light tomorrow morning, at which point the bodies will be transported to the district headquarters for identification and postmortem procedures.
April 30, Kathmandu — Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has declared that the future of the Persian Gulf will be free of American presence. In a statement delivered on Thursday during the Persian Gulf Day event, he stated that aside from maritime depths, no foreign entities will be present in other parts of the Persian Gulf.
“Iran will inaugurate a new chapter for the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz,” Khamenei said. “The future of the Persian Gulf will be free from American influence.” He further emphasized that the United States will no longer be able to interfere in the Persian Gulf region and announced that Iran plans to implement new arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz.
The government has instructed that outpatient department (OPD) services be operational in all public hospitals nationwide starting from 18th Baisakh. The Ministry of Health and Population made this decision to ensure that patients can readily access health services despite the public holidays.
Dr. Samirkumar Adhikari, the ministry’s spokesperson, noted that the three consecutive days of public holidays could disrupt OPD services and cause inconvenience to service users. Kathmandu, 17th Baisakh. The government has issued a directive to run OPD services in all public hospitals tomorrow (18th Baisakh).
The ministry’s notice states that the operation of OPD services during the public holiday is mandatory to ensure smooth access to healthcare for patients. With the anticipated impact of the three-day continuous public holiday on government hospitals’ OPD services, Dr. Adhikari has urged vigilance to avoid inconvenience to service users.
File photo, 17 Baisakh, Kathmandu: The Nepal Police have reported the arrest of 417 intermediaries across the country in the past month. This was stated in the Thursday bulletin issued by the Police Headquarters.
Among those arrested, 123 were from the Kathmandu Valley, 45 from Province 1 (Koshi Province), 50 from Madhesh Province, 76 from districts outside the valley in Bagmati Province, 27 from Gandaki Province, 44 from Lumbini Province, 24 from Karnali Province, and 28 from Sudurpashchim Province.
The police further noted that cases have been filed against 121 individuals while 296 were released after investigation. The government had announced plans to make public services free of intermediaries, citizen-friendly, lawful, transparent, and more efficient. In line with this, the police have commenced actions against intermediaries operating in service offices across the country.
Poet Navaraj Parajuli will perform at a poetry concert on Friday afternoon at 2 PM at Hotel Kingswary in Birtamod, Jhapa. The special event is organized to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Parajuli’s book, ‘Sagarmatha Ko Gahirai’. Parajuli will present a solo performance lasting two hours, and each attendee will receive a copy of the book.
Kathmandu. Poet Navaraj Parajuli is set to perform at a poetry concert held in Birtamod, Jhapa, on Friday. The event will commence at 2 PM at the local Hotel Kingswary. This special occasion marks the tenth anniversary of the publication of Parajuli’s book, ‘Sagarmatha Ko Gahirai’. He will deliver a two-hour solo performance. Attendees will be given a copy of the book during the program.
The organizers expressed confidence that the event will significantly contribute to the development of a reading culture. The book was also honored with the Padmashree Sahitya Award in 2016 (2073 BS). Various local schools have collaborated for the poetry concert. Parajuli has previously conducted poetry concerts in 17 countries.
The government has amended the Cooperative Act of 2017 and issued an ordinance prohibiting cooperative societies from distributing dividends exceeding 15 percent. According to this ordinance, cooperative organizations cannot pay more than fifteen percent dividend on share capital.
Previously, cooperative societies were allowed to distribute up to 18 percent dividends. The ordinance, issued on April 30 in Kathmandu, introduces a new cap on dividend distribution for cooperatives. It explicitly states that dividends exceeding fifteen percent of share capital are not permitted.
Kavita Kunwar took 6 wickets conceding only 5 runs in 3.4 overs against Vanuatu in the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy.
Thanks to Kunwar’s bowling, Nepal bowled out Vanuatu for 49 runs, securing a thrilling 83-run victory.
Nepal had set a target of 133 runs, with Smriti Khadka scoring 52 and captain Indu Barma adding 43 runs.
April 30, Kathmandu – In the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy match against Vanuatu, Nepalese bowler Kavita Kunwar delivered an exceptional bowling performance.
Kavita took 6 wickets for just 5 runs in only 3.4 overs, marking the best bowling performance of her career and Nepal’s second-best ever.
Previously, Anjali Chand held the record for Nepal, taking 6 wickets for no runs in 2.1 overs against the Maldives in 2019. Kunwar’s latest effort now ranks as Nepal’s best bowling figures since then.
Thanks to Kavita’s outstanding bowling, Nepal dismissed Vanuatu for 49 runs and secured an emphatic 83-run victory after setting a target of 133 runs.
Besides Kavita taking 6 wickets, Pooja Mahato and Rachana Chaudhary each took 2 wickets. Kavita was named Player of the Match.
Nepal won the toss and decided to bat first, scoring 132 runs for 3 wickets in 20 overs. Smriti Khadka scored 52 runs off 51 balls, hitting 9 fours.
Captain Indu Barma remained unbeaten with 43 runs off 18 balls, including 7 fours, while Pooja Mahato contributed 19 runs.
Nepal had previously lost against Vanuatu in the tournament, which had knocked them out of the title contention.
Shivali Gurung and Swastika Bista have qualified for the women’s singles final of the 12th Citizens Bank Open Tennis Tournament. In the semifinals held Thursday at the National Sports Council courts in Tripureshwor, Shivali defeated Prajna Manandhar 6–0, 6–1, while Swastika overcame Prakriti Shrestha 6–2, 6–1 in straight sets.
In the men’s singles, Pradeep Khadka and Darshil Shrestha have secured their spots in the final showdown. Pradeep triumphed over Ayushman Hajur Ghale 6–3, 6–7, 6–1, and Darshil defeated Pranav Manandhar 6–0, 6–0 in the semifinal matches. The tournament features 13 events in total, with finals for 11 categories scheduled for Friday.
Sponsored primarily by Citizens Bank, the veterans’ category for men over 35 saw former national champion Jitendra Pariyar reach the final after defeating Bhishmajung Gurung 6–4, 6–1. Santosh Khatri also advanced by beating Dawa Sonam Sherpa 6–2, 7–5. The veterans’ 70-plus men’s singles final took place at the Army Officers Club in Bhadrakali, where Dheer Bahadur Gurung claimed the title.
Players from various age groups are competing in the tournament. The men’s and women’s singles finals are scheduled for Saturday.
The Department of Foreign Employment has requested that workers going abroad for employment must pay service fees strictly through the banking system. To prevent fraud and ensure transparency in financial transactions, the department has urged against conducting cash transactions. The department has issued a warning that cash dealings will lead to legal action. Kathmandu, April 30. The Department of Foreign Employment has emphasized that workers going abroad must remit service fees only via banking methods. To avoid fraud, promote transparent financial dealings, and ensure safe foreign employment, manpower agencies have been directed to collect service fee payments exclusively through banking channels. The department has also requested to securely maintain proof of payment, related documents, and online transaction details. Highlighting that cash transactions increase the risk of fraud and make evidence collection difficult, the department has strongly advised against cash dealings with anyone. Manpower agencies, their employees, representatives, or any individuals are instructed not to engage in any cash transaction related to foreign employment or related economic dealings. Manpower companies have also been told not to accept cash payments from workers. The department has warned that violation of this directive will result in legal penalties as per the law.
The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has imposed a fine of NPR 20,000 on Sai Shri Foods Pvt. Ltd. located in Kuleshwor, Kathmandu Valley, following an inspection. The fine was levied under Section 39(1)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, based on a violation under Section 38 (gh) of the same act.
During the monitoring, a total of 52 firms and companies were reviewed, out of which 51 were issued general directives. On April 30, in Kathmandu, the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection fined one firm NPR 20,000 on Thursday. The fine was imposed on Sai Shri Foods Pvt. Ltd. situated in Kathmandu Metropolitan City-14, Kuleshwor, as part of the department’s market surveillance in Kathmandu Valley.
The department stated that the violation was under Section 38 (gh) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, and the fine followed Section 39(1)(a) of the same act. Moreover, after monitoring 52 firms and companies, the department has issued general directives to the remaining 51 firms.
April 30, Kathmandu – Bhishmaraj Angdembe, leader of the parliamentary party of the main opposition Nepali Congress, has expressed serious objections to the government’s decision to withhold official advertisements from private media outlets. He criticized the decision as an assault on the essence of democracy. He stated, “At times, the government tries to test the public pulse, but having a mindset that undermines the core of democracy is wrong.”
According to him, the decision to bar official advertisements from private media could jeopardize press freedom and weaken the financial foundation of private media organizations. He assured that Nepali Congress has taken this issue seriously and will prioritize it in parliamentary sessions and committee meetings. This statement was provided to a team from the Federation of Nepali Journalists on Thursday.
The Federation of Nepali Journalists has expressed strong opposition to the government’s policy of providing official advertisements exclusively to state media. As part of their protest program, a delegation including Federation President Nirmala Sharma and General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal met with leader Angdembe to urge pressure on the government to revoke this decision. Additionally, Angdembe voiced concerns over the government’s practice of calling parliamentary sessions only to suspend them and pursue ordinances thereafter. He remarked, “After orchestrating a charade of calling and then suspending parliamentary sessions, the government is attempting to flood with ordinances, which is not a positive sign.”
He emphasized that in a situation where parliamentary sessions must be held within a week for budget discussions, it is inappropriate for the government to frequently issue ordinances without any emergency or natural disaster justifying such actions.
Sharp controversy has erupted after the majority government of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) saw its recommended ordinances withheld at the President’s office.
As previously, debates and analyses are ongoing to understand the government’s rationale for introducing these ordinances and the implications of the President’s decision to withhold them.
According to senior advocate Radheshyam Adhikari, a former member of the National Assembly from the Congress party, it would have been better not to introduce ordinances just days before the parliamentary session.
“Whether to bring ordinances when the parliament is about to convene is a government responsibility,” Adhikari explained. “However, if the ordinances comply with the constitution, the government has the authority to present them.”
President Ramchandra Paudel is consulting constitutional experts regarding this issue, and his office has confirmed ongoing review.
Does the President have the authority to ‘restrain’ ordinances?
“We are unaware of the ordinance content. If it appears unconstitutional, the President can discuss it with the Prime Minister,” senior advocate Adhikari said, “but if it aligns with the constitution and laws, withholding it would be inappropriate.”
Opportunity for a Popularly Mandated Government
Image source, Reuters
There are numerous past instances of Presidents withholding various ordinances and recommendations.
However, the current political environment is different. Unlike past governments formed through shifting parliamentary alliances, this government holds nearly a two-thirds majority.
Some argue that the President’s attempt to ‘test’ and restrain ordinances recommended by the government is contrary to the changed political landscape and popular sentiment.
“It’s different if the government corrects itself, but once it decides to present an ordinance, it becomes difficult for the President to withhold it,” senior advocate Purnman Shakya said. “Process, democracy, constitution, and law are primarily subjects of analysis and concern for lawyers, judiciary, and intellectuals. Popular mandate belongs to Balen Shah, and citizens have been supporting his actions.”
On this basis, the government has published a list of 100 tasks to be carried out immediately.
According to his analysis, since the ruling party does not hold a majority in the National Assembly, bills could be stalled and parliamentary processes could take at least one to two months — a delay the government apparently cannot afford.
“However, attention to procedure is necessary in democracy. Rules of procedure are important and require time to follow,” he added. “Therefore, bringing ordinances by postponing a parliamentary session is unusual, and it is necessary for the President to summon the Prime Minister to understand the situation.”
Constitutional expert Surya Dhungel has stated a need to restrain government actions when there is abuse of the majority.
Nevertheless, he believes this government deserves an opportunity given its overwhelming popular mandate.
He said, “The government has expressed a desire to deliver services and implement democratic processes fully within the framework of the constitution. Many members are new and young; development of parliamentary traditions and culture is necessary.”
Presidential Discretion in Withholding Ordinances
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Experts note that sensitive issues such as national sovereignty, security, constitutional violations, and citizen safety require careful study and consultation regarding bills or ordinances.
Senior advocate Purnman Shakya states that as the constitutional guardian, the President has the right to exercise discretion.
“If the matter is extremely serious, the President can withhold or return the ordinance,” he explained.
The ordinances are also said to aim at annulling political appointments before the formation of this new government, specifically before Chaitra 13 (Nepali calendar).
“Ordinances have justification for urgent arrangements for squatters,” constitutional expert Lalit Basnet said, “but why hurry for various appointments and structural changes when a government with majority can handle these through parliament?”
Basnet explains that depending on the nature and need, some ordinances can be issued while others withheld.
The President has also issued a cooperative-related ordinance, indicating decisions based on the gravity of the subject.
“As the constitutional protector, the President is empowered to exercise constitutional discretion,” Basnet adds.
Party Politics and Influence on the Presidency
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Political parties have been criticized for attempting to influence the President to serve their interests when in power or opposition.
There are also concerns that rather than legislating, President’s discretion is being manipulated to pursue arbitrary agendas.
Opposition parties have likewise called on the President not to issue ordinances this time.
Constitutional scholar Surya Dhungel observes that such practices and conflicts arise due to the still-maturing democratic culture in Nepal.
“Past misuse of ordinances occurred, and the new government also seems eager to act hastily, bypassing parliamentary processes,” he said. “However, can opposition parties rightfully ask the President not to do so, considering they may be in government tomorrow? This must be taken into account.”
Some perceive that the tradition of restraining internal administrative ordinances could end up putting the presidential institution itself into controversy.
Constitutional expert Basnet added, “Previously, ordinances were abused to split and align parties. This government’s objectives may be legitimate, but procedures, traditions, and norms must be followed.”
Intense controversy has erupted after ordinances recommended by the majority government of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) were halted at the President’s office.
As before, there are ongoing interpretations and analyses regarding the government’s objectives in introducing these ordinances and the meaning behind the President’s decision to restrain their approval.
Senior Advocate Radheshyam Adhikari, a former National Assembly member from Congress, suggests it would have been better not to introduce ordinances as the parliament is scheduled to convene within days.
“The decision to bring or not bring an ordinance just before a parliamentary session is the government’s responsibility,” Adhikari said, “However, if an ordinance is introduced and it conforms to the constitution, it can be adopted.”
Regarding this, President Ramchandra Paudel is consulting constitutional experts while his office has indicated a study is underway.
Can the President impose ‘restraints’ on ordinances?
“We do not know the specific content of the ordinances. If an ordinance seems unconstitutional, the President can discuss it with the Prime Minister,” says Senior Advocate Adhikari, “But it is inappropriate to halt the ordinance if it complies with the constitution and law.”
Opportunity for a Mandate-Based Government
Image source, Reuters
There are many precedents where Presidents have blocked various ordinances or recommendations in the past.
However, the current political landscape is different. Unlike before where parliamentary arithmetic was fluctuating, this government was formed with almost a two-thirds majority.
Some argue that the President’s attempt to ‘test’ and restrain ordinances recommended by the government contradicts the changed political scenario and public sentiment.
“It would be different if the government itself made corrections, but if the government insists on bringing an ordinance, it is difficult for the President to block it,” says Senior Advocate Purnaman Shakya. “Process, democracy, constitution, and law are primarily the domain of lawyers, the judiciary, and the intellectual community. The popular mandate is with Balen Shah, and citizens approve whatever he does.”
On this basis, the government has published a list of 100 tasks to be implemented immediately.
According to his analysis, since his party lacks a majority in the National Assembly, bills may face obstacles and the parliamentary process likely takes one to two months, for which there is little patience.
“However, regard for democratic procedures is necessary. Parliamentary procedure is critical and needs time to be followed,” he added. “Therefore, bringing ordinances by suspending parliamentary sessions is abnormal; this requires the President to summon the Prime Minister and ascertain the situation.”
Another constitutional expert Surya Dhungel emphasizes the necessity of preventing the government’s abuse of majority power.
However, he also believes this government, backed by a strong mandate, deserves an opportunity.
He said, “The government wants to expedite citizen services and democratic procedures within the framework of the constitution. The cabinet comprises many new and young members, making it necessary to develop parliamentary traditions and culture.”
President’s Discretion in Halting Ordinances
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Experts note that sensitive issues such as national sovereignty, security, constitutional violations, and citizen safety require thorough study and consultation regarding bills or ordinances.
Senior Advocate Purnaman Shakya points out that as the constitutional guardian, the President has the right to exercise discretion.
“In very serious matters, the President can halt or return an ordinance,” he said.
Before the formation of this new government, i.e., before Chaitra 13 (late March), one ordinance’s purpose was reportedly to cancel political appointments.
“Ordinances can be justified to deal immediately with squatters,” constitutional expert Lalit Basnet remarked, “But if a majority government can make various appointments and structural changes through parliament, why the rush now?”
Basnet explains that some ordinances may be issued or withheld depending on their content and necessity.
The President’s issuance of cooperative-related ordinances signals a decision based on the gravity of the matter.
“As the protector of the constitution, the President can employ constitutional discretion,” Basnet concluded.
Party Politics and Its Influence on the President
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Political parties have often been criticized for attempting to influence the President according to their interests when in government or opposition.
There are also accusations that rather than focusing on lawmaking, parties encourage the President to exercise discretion for self-serving or autocratic ends.
This time as well, opposition parties have urged the President not to approve the ordinances.
According to constitutional expert Surya Dhungel, such controversies and practices occur because Nepal’s democratic culture remains immature.
“Previously, ordinances were misused; the new government also wishes to work quickly, bypassing parliamentary practice and procedure,” he explained, “But can opposition parties demand the President not do so? They may be in government tomorrow, so this needs to be considered.”
Some believe that traditions of blocking ordinances related to the government’s internal activities could embroil the President’s institution in controversy.
Constitutional expert Basnet notes, “Previously, ordinances were abused to split and unite parties. This government’s aims may be legitimate, but processes, traditions, and norms must be respected.”
The “Himalayan Open Golf 2026” will be held in Denver, Colorado on August 8 and 9.
The competition aims to unite Nepalese and Himalayan diaspora communities and broaden access to golf.
The total prize fund is set at $12,000, alongside plans for long-term international expansion.
April 30, Kathmandu — The “Himalayan Open Golf (HOG) 2026” is scheduled to take place in Denver, Colorado, USA on August 8 and 9.
Initiated by the Himalayan community, this tournament has established itself as an important platform to unite Nepalese and Himalayan diaspora residing abroad.
Set against a beautiful mountainous backdrop, the event aims to blend sports with culture, friendship, and lifestyle. Organizers have arranged for participation opportunities for both experienced players and newcomers learning the game.
The primary goal of the tournament is to popularize golf within the Himalayan community and encourage the younger generation towards a healthy, disciplined, and active lifestyle, according to the organizers.
Additionally, the event is expected to provide opportunities for collaboration, networking, and expanding professional relations through sports.
The total prize pool will amount to $12,000, aiming to increase youth participation, foster mentorship, and strengthen ties within the global Himalayan community.
Organizers have also announced plans to expand this tournament internationally in the long term. The Himalayan Open Golf is viewed as a historic initiative to promote unity, identity, and mutual relationships within the community.
