On June 19, a spiritual dialogue program aimed at ending the practice of animal sacrifice was held in Kathmandu through the collaboration of Sneha’s Care and IPFN Nepal. Sneha Shrestha stated, ‘It is ironic that where worship and devotion take place, there is also killing and violence,’ emphasizing that ‘this practice must now come to an end.’ She highlighted the need to reconsider the tradition of animal sacrifice carried out in the name of religion and custom.
The debate on ending animal sacrifice included the participation of various spiritual gurus and public health experts. Public health professional Aruna Upreti described animal sacrifice as a harmful social practice that requires timely change. She remarked, ‘Sati used to be considered a similar harmful custom, but it no longer exists. The sacrificial practice must be abolished in the same way.’
Spiritual guru Ramchandra Bhandari clarified that the true religious meaning of sacrifice is “renunciation.” He explained that religious texts associate sacrifice not with violence but with self-discipline, renunciation, and positive transformation, emphasizing the need to understand the authentic meaning of religious practices.
The participating spiritual leaders expressed that religious communities should play a leading role in strengthening a culture of respect for living beings, compassion, and non-violence in society. They stressed the importance of interpreting religious beliefs and cultural practices in a contemporary context by prioritizing humanity, tolerance, and animal-friendly values.
Authorities from the Advertising Board have taken active measures to control false advertisements, especially related to medicine and treatment, that are widely spread through social media. An official revealed that monitoring of such advertisements has been intensified following complaints from consumers as well as initiatives by the board itself. After receiving numerous complaints about fake medical advertisements, the board has issued advisory notices urging consumers not to trust unauthorized ads appearing on social media platforms.
According to government directives, Nepal Telecommunications Authority officials regularly block inappropriate content and shut down offending websites or applications. The former head of the Advertising Board emphasized the need to raise public awareness about advertisements, particularly those affecting public health and related to medicines. Communication officer Dilliram Suvedi explained that such advertisements are often posted from personal social media accounts. “Individuals create accounts under various names to promote products and provide contact numbers. These advertisements lack official endorsement and are not registered with any authorized institution,” he stated.
Officials pointed out that since legitimate companies or institutions do not place these advertisements, there is difficulty following up on complaints due to a lack of valid contact information. Absence of physical addresses makes it challenging to reach advertisers via phone or email. “When contacted, they often question the nature of the issue and delivery locations, and the language used during communication affects outcomes,” Suvedi added. A list of accounts and links related to complaints has been prepared, and necessary procedures are underway. “Currently, the chairman position is vacant, but once a new chairman is appointed, we plan to intensify efforts on this matter,” Suvedi informed.
The responsibility for blocking and removing content rests with the authority’s review board and is conducted under relevant laws and regulations. “When content needs to be removed or blocked, our role is to recommend the matter to the respective authority or the Cyber Bureau,” said communication officer Suvedi. A director at the authority clarified, “We act upon recommendations from government agencies. We do not independently shut down websites or apps. When content is deemed illegal, we proceed with coordinated action through service providers after receiving official communications from appropriate government bodies,” explained Min Prasad Aryal, director of Nepal Telecommunications Authority.
The visit of US Vice President Jody Hens to Switzerland for peace talks between the United States and Iran has been cancelled at the last minute. Following the deaths of four Israeli soldiers, Israeli Security Minister Ben-Gvir made a controversial statement calling for “all of Lebanon to burn.” The Israeli military’s attacks in various areas of southern Lebanon have resulted in at least 18 fatalities. June 19, Kathmandu.
On Thursday, a peace agreement was signed between the US and Iran in France. Although both countries planned to begin discussions in Switzerland today on the terms of the agreement, Vice President Hens’s visit was abruptly called off. According to reports by The Guardian, the decision was made as soon as the Vice President and her team arrived at the airport. Dozens of White House officials and foreign journalists were already present in Switzerland in anticipation of the visit.
Media reports suggest that the primary reason for postponing Hens’s visit may be Iran’s demands related to Lebanon. The agreement includes a commitment to end all hostilities, encompassing the conflict in Lebanon as well. However, ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon have intensified tensions surrounding the talks.
In a provocative statement, Israel’s hardline Security Minister Ben-Gvir said that after the deaths of four Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, “all of Lebanon must burn.” French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has urged Israel to halt military operations in Lebanon and called on the United States to increase pressure on Israel.
In southern Lebanon’s village of Kfar Tebnit, a Hezbollah drone attack injured five Israeli soldiers, one of whom is in serious condition. In a previous strike in the same area, four Israeli soldiers, including 32-year-old Tank Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, were killed. On Friday, the Israeli military launched attacks on various locations in southern Lebanon. According to the Lebanese official news agency, at least 18 people have died in these assaults. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has declared that Israeli troops will remain in Lebanon until the threat from Hezbollah is eliminated.
Iran has stated it will only resume negotiations with the United States after receiving full guarantees to halt attacks in Lebanon. Despite a 14-point interim peace agreement signed in France, Israel continues its military offensives in southern Lebanon. Following the suspension of talks, US Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Switzerland was canceled at the last minute.
Before restarting talks in Switzerland, Iran has demanded assurances that all military operations in Lebanon will cease entirely. The recently signed agreement includes a call for ensuring the end of hostilities in Lebanon. However, ongoing Israeli attacks have temporarily stalled the proposed US-Iran negotiations.
On Thursday, Iran signed the 14-point interim peace agreement at the Palace of Versailles in France. The accord aims to end all conflicts across Lebanon and other fronts. The first formal talks between the two nations to discuss the implementation of the agreement were scheduled for today at the Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland.
Nevertheless, the visit by US Vice President JD Vance was abruptly canceled. Although the peace agreement has taken effect, Israel has refused to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon and continues its assaults. This stance has resulted in humanitarian casualties on both the Israeli and Lebanese sides. Iran has strongly condemned Israel’s actions as a violation of the agreement and decided not to engage in further talks with the US until the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon is guaranteed.
After managing a draw against Morocco in their opening match, Brazil faces the challenge of regaining form in their upcoming game against Haiti. The second group stage match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 between Brazil and Haiti is scheduled for Saturday. Neymar, who was on the bench during the first match, is expected to miss this second game as well. Meanwhile, undefeated Scotland and Morocco will compete against each other in the other group match on Saturday.
Brazil will play their second match at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Saturday against Haiti. Having drawn with Morocco in their first encounter, Brazil now aims to return to winning ways. The match between five-time world champions Brazil and Haiti will take place at Philadelphia Stadium and is set to kick off at 6:15 AM Nepal time.
Following the draw, Brazil currently trails Scotland by two points in the standings. If Brazil fails to secure a positive result against Haiti, they will face significant pressure going into their final match against Scotland. After the draw with Morocco, head coach Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that there could be some changes to the starting lineup.
For Haiti, qualifying for the World Cup itself is a major achievement. Returning to the tournament for the first time since 1974, Haiti showed an inspiring performance against Scotland despite losing 1-0. Brazil will approach the game against Haiti looking to increase the pace and improve their goal difference.
According to Lebanon’s official news agency, at least 16 civilians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes. Since Friday morning, Israel has been continuously launching air attacks in Nabatieh city and surrounding areas. There are emerging disagreements between the United States and Israel regarding halting attacks on Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon. June 5, Kathmandu.
Israel has carried out air raids targeting cities in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese official news agency has reported that Israeli forces have attacked several cities in the southern region. According to the agency, the strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 16 Lebanese civilians. Various media outlets have cited the Lebanese news agency, reporting that Israel has been persistently attacking Nabatieh city and nearby areas since Friday morning.
However, the recent agreement between the United States and Iran stipulated a cessation of all military actions across all fronts, including Lebanon. In recent days, disagreements have increased between the US and Israel regarding the suspension of attacks on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
Following in the footsteps of legends like Thomas Muller, Kylian Mbappe, and Enzo Fernandez, FIFA has compiled a list of 10 young stars set to showcase their talent this week in the race to become the Best Young Player. The announcement highlights the top performers in the group stage opener of the 2026 World Cup. FIFA plans to select the Best Young Player from those born after January 1, 2005. The list features outstanding young talents including Australia’s Nestory Irankunda and the United States’ Alex Freeman.
June 19, Kathmandu – As all 48 teams completed their first matches in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, several young players delivered remarkable performances. These young stars have already left their mark on the global stage. FIFA has identified 10 young players who impressed most in the North American group phase openers, covering a spectrum from Australia’s youngest World Cup goal scorer Nestory Irankunda to dynamic forwards Ben Gyanan-Dok and Yan Diomande. Defenders like Alex Freeman and Luke de Fougerolles also made significant impacts in their debut matches. The FIFA Young Player Award, sponsored by Aram Company, is presented to the standout young player of the tournament, and many promising athletes have emerged as early contenders.
The FIFA technical study group will select the winner from players born after January 1, 2005, based on their performances during the 2026 World Cup.
Nestory Irankunda (Australia): Just 20 years and 125 days old, Irankunda made history as Australia’s youngest World Cup goal scorer by netting a goal in his very first match. Against Turkey, he controlled a long pass and delivered a composed finish into an open goal. His explosive, direct, and technically proficient display earned him the title of ‘Superior Player of the Match.’ Former Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou praised his “amazing pace.”
Paul Okon-Angstler (Australia): Covering extensive ground, Okon-Angstler provided a beautiful assist for Irankunda’s goal, catching everyone’s attention. The 21-year-old defensive midfielder, making his seventh international appearance, is renowned for initiating attacks with long passes and has earned full trust from coach Tony Popovic.
Alex Freeman (United States): Son of former Green Bay Packers star and Super Bowl winner Antonio Freeman, 21-year-old Alex made his World Cup debut against Paraguay. Playing for Villarreal, he demonstrated physical strength and athleticism, assisting in the USA’s fourth goal. Coach Mauricio Pochettino remarked, “Alex Freeman can play as a third center-back or on the sides. When the ball is at his feet, the team feels relieved. He is a strong player.”
Ayoub Bouadi (Morocco): In the match against Brazil, 18-year-old central midfielder Bouadi showed maturity, intelligence, calmness, and dedication, drawing praise from coach Mohamed Ouahbi and Olivier Giroud of Lille. Recently, he chose to represent Morocco instead of his birth country France.
Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast): Diomande became Ivory Coast’s youngest World Cup participant at 19 during their victory over Ecuador. His outstanding performance at the Philadelphia Stadium earned him the ‘Superior Player of the Match.’ His manager described him as a versatile attacker capable of playing across both wings, outrunning defenders, and confusing opponents.
Antonio Nusa (Norway): A key part of Norway’s attacking line, Nusa had an impressive World Cup debut by creating challenges for Iraq and assisting star player Erling Haaland’s goal. He shared, “I enjoy one-on-one duels; that’s where I get the most pleasure in football.”
Ben Gyanan-Dok (Scotland): The creative 20-year-old, adept on both right and left flanks, has developed into a vital player for Scotland. Against Haiti, he deceived defenders and delivered a crucial assist, showing dynamic flank play. His upcoming match against Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi promises to be exciting. He said, “I try to approach it as playing football in the park, as I’ve been playing all my life.”
Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal): At 18 years and 142 days, Mbaye became the youngest African scorer in a World Cup when he scored against France. A member of the Lions of Teranga, his powerful goal during the fifth match introduced him to the global football audience. Fans are eager to see his speed, flair, and ball-carrying skills live.
Luke de Fougerolles (Canada): Born in London, de Fougerolles has become Canada’s first-choice central defender as co-host. Trusted by coach Jesse Marsch, he demonstrated calmness, balance, and ball control. He occasionally ventured into midfield while helping Canada secure victories against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Caleb Yirenky (Ghana): When the goalless match between Ghana and Panama seemed headed toward a draw, 20-year-old midfielder Caleb changed the game at the 95th minute. Winning possession from his own half, he converted Brandon Thomas-Asante’s cross into a close-range finish. His timely positioning and engine-like box-to-box stamina reflect his exceptional game intelligence.
The brilliance of these ten young players only scratches the surface of emerging talents from the opening stage. Spain’s Lamin Yamal, who came on against Cape Verde in the second half, boosted both the team’s level and the crowd’s enthusiasm. France’s Desire Doué showcased exceptional skill against Senegal, with a brilliant strike signaling France’s thrilling performance near halftime. Turkey’s Arda Güler took command and came close to scoring from a free kick against Australia, while Kenan Yildiz entered after halftime to consistently trouble opposing defenses.
A Ukrainian drone strike on an oil refinery in Moscow has marked the most significant assault launched by Ukraine since the outbreak of full-scale war. Reports indicate that nearly 200 drones were deployed in the Moscow area alone during the attack. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, Ukraine launched a total of 1,000 drones and four cruise missiles across the country within the past 24 hours, all of which were intercepted.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that this operation was conducted in response to a recent Russian attack in Kyiv, where a major religious site was reportedly set on fire. “We do not want this war and never wanted it,” Zelensky said. “But if Ukraine is burning, then so will your Moscow.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently hosting the conference of Southeast Asian nations, has yet to issue any response regarding the large-scale attack on the capital.
The family of Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine footballer, has revealed that his father, Jorge Messi, is currently experiencing “health-related issues.” “He is under medical supervision and his health condition is improving,” the family stated in a press release issued on Thursday.
After scoring the first goal in Argentina’s group stage match against Algeria on Wednesday during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, Messi was seen in tears. In that game, Messi scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory. He also serves as the captain of his national team. By scoring three goals in a single match at the age of 38, Messi equaled Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the highest goal scorer in World Cup history. Following the match, Messi said, “Why did I cry? It’s not just about football.”
Following Argentina’s opening game, the Messi family issued a clarification addressing various speculations about Jorge Messi’s health. They expressed discomfort over the insensitive, disrespectful, and reckless comments made by some individuals regarding their strictly private family matters. However, the family did not disclose the specific nature of Jorge Messi’s health problem.
Argentina’s next group stage match is scheduled for Monday, June 22, at 18:00 BST (11:45 PM Nepal time) against Austria. Their final group match will be on Sunday, June 28, at 03:00 BST (8:45 AM Nepal time) against Jordan. The family urged the public, “Please do not consider any information, statements, or news from any source other than official and family channels as accurate or truthful.”
The US has ended its maritime blockade on Iran after signing a peace agreement to end the conflict in the Middle East.
The US Central Command (‘CENTCOM’) confirmed the removal of the blockade under orders from President Donald Trump. A post on ‘X’ stated that some US naval vessels will still be stationed in international waters in the region.
Following this, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mujtaba Khamenei acknowledged the agreement with the US despite expressing “differences in opinion.” However, he did not elaborate on the nature of these disagreements.
He stated that he granted approval to proceed with the agreement after President Masoud Pahesekian assured that it would “protect the rights of the Iranian nation.”
Khamenei claimed that US President Trump became “desperate” to finalize the deal and used “all kinds of pressure tactics.”
First Public Reaction
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Photo caption, Iranian President Masoud Pahesekian signed the agreement on behalf of Iran
In his first public remarks after Thursday’s agreement, Pahesekian warned that Iran would not agree to excessive US demands aimed at solidifying the peace deal.
He emphasized that any future direct talks with the US should not be seen as support for any opposing parties.
Mujtaba Khamenei, who became Supreme Leader in March after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in an attack by the US and Israel on February 28, has not made public appearances but issued a written statement about the agreement.
The deal has drawn criticism from some quarters, including US Republican lawmakers.
US Gains Upper Hand in Upcoming Negotiations
Image source, ISNA/WANA/Reuters
US Vice President J.D. Vans dismissed claims that Iran received “too many concessions” under the agreement, asserting that the US will hold a stronger position in forthcoming talks.
Vans also revealed that over 11.2 million barrels of oil have already passed through the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Trump has yet to respond directly to Khamenei’s comments.
On ‘Truth Social,’ Trump expressed hope for a ceasefire “on all fronts” between Hezbollah groups backed by Iran and Israel in Lebanon. He also voiced confidence in the commitment of Middle Eastern countries to promote dialogue and negotiations.
The peace agreement between Iran and the US consists of 14 main points.
Key provisions include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s commitment never to develop nuclear weapons, and the establishment of a $30 billion fund for Iran’s reconstruction and economic development. US contributions to this fund are not mandatory.
The agreement sets a 60-day deadline for both parties to reach a final decision.
Although a formal signing ceremony was anticipated on Friday in Switzerland, Pakistan, which mediated the talks, announced the event was canceled since the agreement had already been signed earlier.
US and Iranian officials are reportedly preparing to meet again in Switzerland for further negotiations. Vice President Vans has indicated that the date for these talks is not yet finalized.
June 19, Kathmandu – An Iranian singer, caught in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, has been sentenced by an Iranian court to receive 74 lashes. The court in Qom province handed down the punishment to singer Parastu Ahmadi. Additionally, eight other members of the ‘Caravansaray Concert’ were also ordered to receive 74 lashes each.
The court further directed that all parties involved be banned from leaving the country for two years and refrain from any artistic activities during that period. The ruling was issued based on Islamic law provisions. The order stated, “This decision will also be published in the country’s media.” Those sentenced are accused of distributing inappropriate and obscene material on the internet, thereby offending public decency.
The video of the ‘Caravansaray Concert’ was uploaded to Parastu Ahmadi’s YouTube channel in December 2014. The footage showed the singer performing without a hijab, which sparked widespread controversy on social media and garnered more than 100,000 views within hours. To date, the video has accumulated nearly 3 million views.
In a match held Friday morning at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, the host nation defeated South Korea 1–0 to secure early qualification to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mexico’s victory over South Korea ensures their progression to the round of 32. (June 19, Kathmandu)
With a decisive goal from Luis Romo, Mexico emerged as the first team to reach the round of 32. The tough and competitive win on home soil in Guadalajara sealed Mexico’s position as group ‘A’ leaders advancing to the knockout rounds. Romo’s goal in the 50th minute proved to be the match-winner.
During the 50th minute, South Korea’s goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, causing the ball to slip from his hands. Mexico capitalized on this fourth corner opportunity, with midfielder Romo expertly directing the ball into an open net. South Korea had a chance to equalize in the 87th minute, but Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header was saved by Mexico’s goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
Although South Korea maintained greater possession throughout the match, they were unable to score. Both teams attempted eight shots in total, with four on target by Mexico and two by South Korea. South Korea also held the edge in passing accuracy. With this win, Mexico has secured 6 points and qualified for the knockout stage, while South Korea, with 3 points, still retains the possibility of advancing.
In earlier matches, Mexico defeated South Africa, and the Czech Republic lost to South Korea. Both the Czech Republic and South Africa have 1 point each after two games, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. Mexico is the first team to advance to the knockout stage. In the 2018 World Cup, Mexico reached the round of 16, whereas in 2022, they were eliminated in the group stage. A total of 32 teams will enter the knockout round. The top two teams from each group, along with eight third-placed teams via play-offs, will progress to the round of 32.
The highly anticipated peace agreement between the United States and Iran, scheduled for today in Switzerland, has been postponed at the last minute. It has been agreed that technical talks will be held in multiple phases over the next 60 days to resolve outstanding technical issues between the two countries. Following the postponement, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif canceled his previously planned visit to Switzerland.
June 19, Kathmandu — The proposed peace agreement between the US and Iran has been postponed. The signing ceremony planned for today (Friday) in Switzerland was called off at the last moment. International media have reported that no senior US or Iranian officials will be travelling to Switzerland to participate in the event.
According to diplomatic sources, the process has now shifted from formal signing to prolonged technical-level negotiations. Advanced teams from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan are currently meeting in Burglenstock and Zurich, Switzerland, to structure the next phase of talks. Sources indicated that over the coming 60 days, multiple stages of technical discussions will be conducted to reach consensus on the remaining complex technical issues related to the agreement.
These discussions aim to finalize the detailed and unresolved aspects of the accord. The unexpected change in preparations for the peace agreement has also affected Pakistan’s official visit schedule. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has canceled his trip to Switzerland. Reports state, “Since the main agenda concerning the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been successfully completed, it was concluded that Sharif’s visit was no longer necessary.”
Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has indicated proposed reforms concerning the tax imposed on electricity consumption.
During Thursday’s session of the House of Representatives, a debate unfolded on the proposal to levy Value Added Tax (VAT) on consumers who use more than 50 units of electricity monthly, to which the Finance Minister responded.
“We are planning such a price adjustment that does not place a heavy burden on the end consumers. Even if we apply a 5 percent VAT, we intend to increase the threshold for the first 50 free units, so approximately 95 percent of Nepalis will remain unaffected,” he said, adding that discussions with the Energy Minister are ongoing. “A consumer-friendly decision will be made effective from Shrawan 1 (mid-July).”
While presenting the budget for fiscal year 2083/84, Minister Wagle highlighted that a concessional VAT rate would be applied to electricity consumption exceeding 50 units per month for end users.
Government officials have indicated that a 5 percent VAT is proposed on electricity consumption above the 50-unit monthly threshold.
‘Revolutionary Discount’: A Call to Benefit
Image source, RSS
Minister Wagle emphasized that this sector involves billions of rupees in investment, requires further billions, and constitutes a significant portion of the Gross Domestic Product. He stressed, “It is not feasible to exempt a sector that dominates the formal economy from the tax system.”
“The previous government could not take this step due to fear, but a government with a strong mandate must undertake this in the national interest,” he added.
Regarding the 3 percent tax imposed on private schools, he noted there was public confusion which has yet to be fully clarified.
“For those within the tax bracket, an allowance of up to NPR 25,000 per child can be deducted as expenses on private schooling,” he said. “This budget is designed to encourage the middle class.”
He urged everyone to take advantage of the tax relief offered by the state, noting that families with a monthly income between NPR 83,000 and 100,000 might not need to pay taxes.
‘A Firm First Step Towards a Confident Nepal’
Image source, RSS
Minister Wagle stated that over the past three decades, Nepal’s economy has largely depended on remittances, import-based consumption, and asset value appreciation. This has temporarily supported the economy and helped raise living standards, but he cautioned that relying solely on these factors will not foster sustainable development.
“No nation can achieve sustainable prosperity by continuously sending its energetic youth abroad,” he said. “Focusing on consumption while neglecting production does not allow for long-term growth.”
Therefore, it is necessary not only to accelerate growth rates but also to change the sources of development.
This budget outlines the transition from a consumption-based economy to a production-based one, from an import-dependent to a competitive economy, and from remittance reliance towards entrepreneurship, investment, innovation, and export-oriented development.
“We are shifting from a welfare state to an opportunity-creating state, moving away from dependency mentality towards a confident economy,” he concluded, emphasizing that the budget signifies a directional and transformational change rather than mere fiscal management.
While reforms are ongoing and the budget is not yet complete, the government has chosen the difficult path of prosperity over popularity.
The minister asserted that the budget is not just a list of expenditures but a roadmap for the economic transformation of coming decades.
“This budget is the first resolute step towards a productive, competitive, innovative, job-creating, and confident Nepal.”
Calm Finance Minister Amid Political Turmoil
Image source, RSS
The previous day, Finance Minister Wagle faced criticism responding to allegations that attracted significant attention.
He denied covering up any irregularities and warned the opposition to be vigilant regarding his activities.
On the same day’s session, opposition MPs expressed skepticism and sarcastically questioned the minister.
Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Labour Culture Party, Harkraj Rai, seized the opportunity to question the “Acting Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Finance Minister.”
Similarly, UML MP Ain Mahar questioned the Finance Minister about tax evasion and fee adjustments, asking if he was prepared for parliamentary investigation.
Nevertheless, Minister Wagle appeared calm and composed during the parliamentary proceedings.
This report is accessible across various platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Additionally, service programs are broadcast every Monday through Friday at 8:45 PM via radio.
I did not want to go there. I was 17 years old and had never been to a football match. But that afternoon, I found myself at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, watching the World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and England. That day, I witnessed a scene I only fully understood years later.
We had no plans that morning. Then a call came. Some friends of my father had two tickets they couldn’t use and asked if my mother and I were interested. My father was hesitant about sending his ‘princess.’ The Falklands War had ended less than five years prior, and tensions between Argentine and English supporters threatened clashes, which worried him. But my mother didn’t hesitate. This was the World Cup — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — and she didn’t want me to miss it.
Everything at the Azteca was extraordinary. The noise, colors, and the whole world gathered in one place: fans singing songs from different regions, laughing, wearing colorful outfits, and painting their faces. Once the match started, I didn’t pay much attention to what was happening on the field. I was swaying with the crowd doing the ‘Mexican wave.’ Then Maradona leapt into the air to challenge Shilton for the ball and scored his first goal. That moment felt life-changing.
The people around me began wondering aloud — was it really a goal? Did he score with his head, or was it actually his hand? The English supporters’ loud dissatisfaction was clearly audible. Maradona stated, “It was a little with my head and a little with the hand of God.” Just four minutes later, Maradona’s second goal caused a frenzy and much debate in the stadium. I remember thinking, “This is why people love football.”