Skip to main content

Author: space4knews

Brazil Must Win as Scotland and Morocco Clash for Top Spot

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on Brazil Must Win as Scotland and Morocco Clash for Top Spot

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.

Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Lebanon Despite Ceasefire Agreement, Killing 16 Civilians

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International. No Comments on Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Lebanon Despite Ceasefire Agreement, Killing 16 Civilians

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.

Rising Stars Competing for the FIFA Young Player Award

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on Rising Stars Competing for the FIFA Young Player Award

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.

  1. 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.”
  2. 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.
  3. 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.”
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.”
  7. 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.”
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.

Ukrainian Drone Attack Targets Moscow Oil Refinery Amid Russia-Ukraine War

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News. No Comments on Ukrainian Drone Attack Targets Moscow Oil Refinery Amid Russia-Ukraine War

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.

World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi’s father Jorge Messi faces health issues

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News. No Comments on World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi’s father Jorge Messi faces health issues

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.”

Mujtaba Khamenei: Iranian Supreme Leader Says ‘America Signed the Deal Out of Desperation’

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News. No Comments on Mujtaba Khamenei: Iranian Supreme Leader Says ‘America Signed the Deal Out of Desperation’

An elderly Iranian walking near a mural of Mujtaba Khamenei

Image source, EPA

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.”

Iranian Singer Sentenced to 74 Lashes for Distributing Obscene Content

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International. No Comments on Iranian Singer Sentenced to 74 Lashes for Distributing Obscene Content

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.

Mexico Becomes First Team to Qualify for Knockout Stage

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on Mexico Becomes First Team to Qualify for Knockout Stage

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.

Signing Ceremony of Proposed US-Iran Peace Agreement in Switzerland Postponed

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International. No Comments on Signing Ceremony of Proposed US-Iran Peace Agreement in Switzerland Postponed

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.”

Nepal’s 2083 Budget: Finance Minister Highlights Electricity Tax Reforms and Key Concerns

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News. No Comments on Nepal’s 2083 Budget: Finance Minister Highlights Electricity Tax Reforms and Key Concerns

Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle

Image source, RSS

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.

Why Is Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Goal More Discussed Than His Other Legendary Goal?

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News. No Comments on Why Is Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Goal More Discussed Than His Other Legendary Goal?

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.”

Canada Secures Historic 6–0 Victory in World Cup Match

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on Canada Secures Historic 6–0 Victory in World Cup Match

In a match held at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, the host nation Canada recorded a commanding 6–0 victory over Qatar, marking a new milestone in World Cup history. Canada achieved their first-ever World Cup win by defeating Qatar in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Jonathan David completed a hat-trick during the match, while two Qatar players were shown red cards. With this win, Canada has accumulated 4 points from two matches and risen to the top of Group B.

Co-host Canada continued their strong World Cup 2026 performance with a dominant win. In the 16th minute, Cyle Larin opened the scoring for Canada. Jonathan David doubled the lead in the 29th minute. Qatar was reduced to 10 men after Hamam Ahmed received a red card in the 33rd minute. During injury time of the first half, Jonathan scored his second personal goal to extend the lead further.

In the 51st minute, another Qatar player, Assim Madibo, was shown a red card, bringing Qatar down to nine players, a situation Canada capitalized on. Nathan scored in the 64th minute to increase the lead to 4–0. In the 75th minute, Qatar’s Mohammed Mannaei scored an own goal, making it 5–0. During second-half injury time, Jonathan completed his hat-trick, securing a comprehensive 6–0 victory for Canada. This victory marks Canada’s very first win in World Cup history, having not won any matches in the two previous World Cup appearances.

Canada Leads Qatar 3-0 at Halftime in FIFA World Cup 2026 Match

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on Canada Leads Qatar 3-0 at Halftime in FIFA World Cup 2026 Match

At BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada has built a 3-0 lead over Qatar by halftime. In this FIFA World Cup 2026 match, the home team Canada secured this important advantage during the first half. Jonathan David scored twice for Canada, while Cyle Larin contributed one goal.

In the 16th minute, Cyle Larin opened the scoring to give Canada the initial lead. Then, Jonathan David doubled the lead with a goal in the 29th minute. At the 33rd minute, Qatar was reduced to 10 men after Hamed Ahmed received a red card. During injury time of the first half, Jonathan David scored his second personal goal, extending Canada’s lead to three goals. Canada succeeded in putting Qatar under pressure throughout the first half.

Loan Essential for State Operations, Says Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business. No Comments on Loan Essential for State Operations, Says Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle

Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle stated, “Mobilizing public debt beyond revenue is an imperative option for running the state.” He disclosed that in the upcoming fiscal year, NPR 2.47 trillion in foreign loans and NPR 4.10 trillion in domestic loans will be mobilized. The government has allocated NPR 4.7 billion for agricultural sector development and NPR 3.2 billion for the purchase of chemical fertilizers. Kathmandu, 4 Asar — Responding to questions raised during the budget discussion in the House of Representatives, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle emphasized the necessity of taking on debt to sustain state operations. Addressing concerns about the rising public debt burden, he said, ‘Beyond revenue, there is no alternative but to mobilize public debt for state operation.’ He informed that NPR 2.47 trillion in foreign loans and NPR 4.10 trillion in domestic loans will be mobilized in the next fiscal year. During this period, NPR 2.46 trillion will be spent on principal and interest payments of domestic debt, and an additional NPR 1.64 trillion in domestic loans will be mobilized.

Minister Wagle explained that domestic loans are being allocated to priority projects and sectors to stimulate economic activities. He also claimed that public debt has not increased compared to the size of the economy in recent years. The government is committed to curbing the tendency to accumulate unspent capital expenditures, which remain extremely low. He informed that amendments were made to the Appropriation Act 2082, the Financial Procedures, and the Financial Responsibility Regulations 2077, granting line ministries the authority to reallocate funds for capital expenditure themselves. The minister expressed a commitment to ensuring the stability of personnel, including project heads, and pledged that the Ministry of Finance will facilitate related ministries and entities to increase capital expenditure.

Supreme Court Blocks Arbitrary Rent Collection Attempts from Industrialists in Industrial Areas

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business. No Comments on Supreme Court Blocks Arbitrary Rent Collection Attempts from Industrialists in Industrial Areas

Summary

  • The Supreme Court has dismissed Industrial Area Management Limited’s review petition, ruling that industrialists should only pay rent increases applicable since 2022/23.
  • To recover outstanding dues, Industrial Area Management Limited has cut electricity lines of over 150 industries in various industrial zones including Hetauda.
  • Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and industrialists have strongly protested the administrative force used to cut electricity lines and demanded immediate cessation of such actions.

June 18, Kathmandu — The Supreme Court has halted the government’s effort to arbitrarily collect rent from industrialists in industrial areas.

Despite an earlier Supreme Court order prohibiting such actions, the government-owned Industrial Area Management Limited sought to increase rent with retroactive effect, disregarding the earlier judgment. After the company filed a review petition, the Supreme Court registered the case again for consideration.

After dismissing the review petition of Industrial Area Management Limited, the Supreme Court has ended this dispute.

Industrialists are now required to pay rent only according to rent hikes effective from the fiscal year 2022/23 onward, while rent for previous years will remain at the old rates.

During the court proceedings, the company cut electricity and water lines in various industrial areas to pressurize businesses. Following instructions from the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Gauri Kumari Yadav, the company issued a notice demanding rent payment within seven days.

Beginning Wednesday, the company started disconnecting electricity to industries failing to pay rent.

It is reported that approximately 700 industries nationwide have long been using government-owned land, buildings, and infrastructure without paying rent or dues. The company claims to have cut electricity lines for 63 industries on Wednesday alone; eight of those have paid outstanding dues and had power restored.

On December 17, 2018, the company had increased rents effective from July 16, 2018, with hikes reaching up to 700%.

Industrial Area Management Limited asserts that approximately NPR 890 million remains unpaid, of which around NPR 215 million has been collected so far.

What is the dispute about?

Due to a longstanding dispute over rent hikes and court proceedings delaying recovery, Industrial Area Management Limited recently took a stringent approach by disconnecting electricity lines.

According to Basudev Sodari, spokesperson for Industrial Area Management Limited, out of 705 institutions and industries, about 635 operate in 10 industrial areas. Over NPR 500 million remains unpaid in land rent alone, and total outstanding dues including electricity and water amount to NPR 890 million.

The company decided on December 17, 2018, to increase rent effective from July 16, 2018, with increases up to 700%.

However, industrialists opposed the hike and requested then-Minister Matrika Prasad Yadav to hold the increase. The minister instructed a freeze and ordered an investigation.

After two years of research, in 2021 the ministry declared the Board’s decision appropriate, paving the way for implementation. On July 6, 2022, the company’s management committee again requested implementation of the 2018 rent increase, prompting industrialists to file a case with the Patan High Court.

The High Court approved the Board’s decision, after which industrialists appealed to the Supreme Court. On March 26, the Supreme Court ruled that although the rent increase is valid, it would apply only from July 7, 2022. This led to claimed losses of around NPR 160 million in rent revenue for the company from 2018 to 2022.

The company filed a review petition on January 9, and today’s ruling affirms rent hikes apply only after 2022, maintaining previous rent rates for earlier periods.

Ejaz Alam, President of Nepal Industrial Area Industries Federation, stated that the prolonged rent dispute has finally been resolved with the Supreme Court’s order.

“We were prepared to comply with whatever decision the court made, but the government suddenly issued a seven-day notice demanding rent payment. After the notice, we were ready to proceed based on the Supreme Court ruling,” Mr. Alam said.

Industrialists consider cutting electricity lines during an ongoing court case illegal. Mr. Alam accused the company of acting unlawfully by disconnecting power without due process.

The ruling noted that Industrial Area Management Limited suffered an approximate NPR 160 million loss from rent revenue between 2018 and 2022.

“Electricity can only be cut when electricity bills are unpaid; similarly, water can be disconnected if dues are pending. But disconnecting lines abruptly at 6 a.m. without informing industries is unacceptable,” he added.

The Federation stated industries have been paying new rent since 2022, noting that 63 industries had their electricity disconnected on Wednesday alone, with power cuts to around 100 industries continuing on Thursday.

Earlier, FNCCI called for an immediate halt to electricity disconnections and administrative force, urging resolution through legal procedures, dialogue, and consensus.

Electricity Disconnections Escalate in Hetauda Industrial Area Affecting 131 Industries

Hetauda, the country’s largest industrial area, witnessed electricity cuts beginning December 19 to 131 industries and offices following directives from Industrial Area Management Limited.

On Wednesday, 15 industries faced disconnections, with operations continuing on Thursday, official Himalaya Bhandari reported.

The company had issued a seven-day notice on June 8 demanding outstanding payments from 131 industries and offices in Hetauda. On June 18, technicians were dispatched to disconnect electricity for non-paying units.

Industrial Area Management Limited claims NPR 200 million in outstanding rent and dues from industries in Hetauda.

Hetauda Industrial Area spans 3,228 ropani and hosts various industries including food, beverage, Gorkha Brewery, Asian Paints, animal feed, and carton production.

Government offices such as Hetauda Dairy Distribution Project, Food Quality Control Office, Seed Company, Soil Testing Office, District Police Office, and Nepal Bank Limited Hetauda Branch also operate there.

Of Hetauda Industrial Area’s total land, 2,178 ropani is leased out, 26.52 ropani remains vacant, and 597 ropani is allocated for utility services and infrastructure.

There are 10 industrial buildings, 11 warehouses, and 34 other structures.

The Industrial Area Management Office charges rent based on the demand for buildings, warehouses, quarters, and land.

Following widespread electricity cuts, industrialists have become alarmed, the Industries Association of Makwanpur reported.

President Shrihari Maske criticized the approach, saying the strict measures are causing panic among industrialists despite ongoing court proceedings. He accused the government of breaching Supreme Court orders by acting on High Court rulings to intimidate the industry.

Former presidents of the Makwanpur Industries Association, Swagtaraj Pyakurel and Lekharaj Pokhrel, complained about increased harassment of industrialists and expressed that the government is failing to create an industry-friendly environment.