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Congress Deuba Faction Decides to Constitutionally and Politically Protest Arrests of Oli and Lekhak


March 27, Kathmandu: The Deuba faction of the Nepali Congress has resolved to constitutionally, legally, and politically protest the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.

In a meeting of senior leaders from the Deuba camp, it was decided to oppose the government’s political retaliation against UML Chairman Oli and party leader Lekhak on constitutional, legal, and political grounds.

Following a meeting held on Saturday at Ramada Hotel in Thamel, Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka issued a statement urging party leaders and activists to be prepared to confront any political challenges arising in the days ahead.

“This politically motivated retaliation, which occurred immediately after the formation of the government with malicious intent, indicates a retreat from the government’s commitment to the Constitution and democracy,” stated the notice released on Nepali Congress letterhead. “This meeting of the Nepali Congress resolves to constitutionally, legally, and politically oppose this act. We also earnestly appeal to party members across the country to stay prepared to face any political situation that may arise.”

Khadka criticized the arrest of former government officials without completing any of the procedures recommended on page 721 of the commission’s report, which advised referring the investigation and prosecution to the Government of Nepal. He contended that such arrests violate the rule of law and are politically biased.

“According to the commission’s mandate, investigations were to be carried out for the incidents on both September 8 and 9. However, silence regarding the human casualties, damage to government structures, political party offices, businesses, and private property arising from the events of September 9 clearly reveals the partiality of this report,” Khadka added.

Budget Dispute Continues in US Congress: Homeland Security Faces Partial Shutdown

March 28, Kathmandu: Following the failure of a bipartisan agreement crafted by House Republicans, a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is escalating. Although the Senate approved a proposal to cut funding for immigration agencies while sustaining other security departments, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson dismissed the measure as a ‘joke’ and rejected it. This political impasse has caused extensive delays at airports nationwide, with travelers subjected to hours-long security lines.

On Friday night, the House passed its own new proposal by a vote of 213 to 203, guaranteeing continuous funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for 60 days. However, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has already declared the bill ‘dead on arrival’ in the Senate. Democrats are demanding stricter budget conditions for ICE agents, citing the killings of U.S. citizens Reni Good and Alex Preti in Minnesota. Their calls include requiring agents to wear masks, prohibiting racial profiling, and mandating judicial warrants to enter private property.

Meanwhile, after a two-week congressional recess, nearly 50,000 TSA agents have now gone unpaid for over six weeks. According to Jim Szeciak, Aviation Director at Houston Airport, fewer than half of security checkpoints are operational. Amid the deepening crisis, President Donald Trump issued an executive order instructing that TSA agents receive their pay starting Monday. However, as the constitutional authority to approve the budget lies solely with Congress, this move may face legal challenges.

कार्की आयोगको प्रतिवेदन कार्यान्वयन गर्ने कदमबाट द्वन्द्व सिर्जना नहोस् : नेकपा – Online Khabar

NCP Urges Conflict-Free Implementation of Karki Commission Report


14 Chaitra, Kathmandu – The Nepal Communist Party (NCP) has emphasized that the implementation of the investigation report led by Gauribahadur Karki should not lead to the creation of conflict.

In an official statement issued from its central office, the NCP expressed this stance.

The government has decided to implement the report of the Karki Commission, which was formed to investigate the events of 23rd and 24th Bhadra, based on the first cabinet meeting. This decision was made during the cabinet meeting on Friday. On Saturday morning, former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested.

“In this regard, our party urges that any steps taken by the government must adhere to the rule of law, follow legal procedures, and ensure impartiality. Political bias or actions that could incite conflict should be avoided,” the NCP’s statement read.

Additionally, the NCP extended congratulations and best wishes to Balendra Shah, leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, for becoming Prime Minister following the majority win in the House of Representatives elections held on 21 Falgun.

Protesters from UML Gather at Maitighar (Photos)

News Summary

Prepared after editorial review.

  • Protesters gathered at Maitighar in opposition to the arrest of CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli.
  • UML activists have been demonstrating around Maitighar–Babarmahal since 3 PM.
  • Despite police efforts to halt them, protesters advanced from Babarmahal towards New Baneshwor.

March 27, Kathmandu – Protesters opposing the arrest of CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli have gathered at Maitighar.

Since 3 PM, UML activists have been demonstrating around the Maitighar–Babarmahal area. They attempted to move from Babarmahal towards New Baneshwor despite police attempts to stop them.

Currently, protesters have reconvened at Maitighar.

Previously, on September 8 and 9, the Gen Z movement took place but was suppressed.

At that time, KP Sharma Oli was the Prime Minister and Congress leader Ramesh Lal Lekhak was the Home Minister. Following the arrests of Oli and Lekhak, UML initiated the current demonstrations in protest.

ओली-लेखक पक्राउबारे कांग्रेसले भन्यो- सरकार संयमित नभए देश द्वन्द्वतर्फ जानसक्छ

Congress Warns Government: Arrest of Oli and Lekhak Could Push Country Back Towards Conflict if Restraint Lacking


March 28, Kathmandu – The Nepali Congress has expressed serious concerns that the country could once again descend into conflict and instability if the government does not exercise restraint. Following the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Congress spokesperson Devaraj Chalise issued a five-point statement on Saturday urging the government to avoid provocation.

The statement emphasized, “Regarding the incidents on September 8 and 9, the Nepali Congress firmly believes that impartial, transparent, and lawful investigations, prosecutions, and all other legal procedures concerning the involved individuals and organizations must proceed.” It further stressed, “We want to clarify that the public has the right to know who was involved in the events of September 8, as well as who was behind the arson and destruction on September 9.”

The party holds that anyone involved in the incidents of both days should face legal consequences and that Congress will cooperate for this purpose. “However, such legal action must not occur under excitement or impulse but must strictly follow the legal process,” the statement underlined.

“If the government is not restrained and mature, hasty decisions could weaken the rule of law and drive the country back toward conflict and instability,” the views released by spokesperson Chalise stated. “The Nepali Congress urges the government to treat this issue with utmost seriousness.”

Heightened Security and Large Deployment of Forces Around Singha Durbar Area


March 28, Kathmandu – Following demonstrations by leaders and activists of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), tension has escalated in the Maitighar–Baneshwor area of Kathmandu. Police have been deployed to maintain control over the security situation.

During the ongoing protests, a significant number of security personnel have been stationed around Singha Durbar. A similar general strike had taken place on September 9 and 10, which was met with suppression.

At that time, KP Sharma Oli, the chairman of the UML, was serving as Prime Minister, and Ramesh Lekhak, a Congress leader, was the Home Minister. Following their arrests, the UML launched protests as an expression of dissent.

‘No Kings’ Movement Sparks Massive Protests Across the US Against Trump Administration


April 3, Kathmandu – Millions of people took to the streets on Saturday across all 50 states in the United States and in 16 other countries worldwide as part of the ‘No Kings’ campaign.

Organizers claim this demonstration, targeting the Trump administration’s alleged ‘authoritarian’ approach and immigration policies, is the largest protest in American history.

Events were scheduled at over 3,000 locations nationwide, involving labor unions and grassroots organizations such as Indivisible and 50501.

The main focus of the protests was Saint Paul and Minneapolis in Minnesota. This area has recently become a symbol of resistance following the harsh actions by immigration agents and the deaths of citizens Reni Good and Alex Pratte at the hands of federal agents, whose justice is being demanded.

Senator Bernie Sanders, renowned actress Jane Fonda, and singer Bruce Springsteen participated in the rally in Saint Paul. Public anger has intensified due to rising inflation, increased gas prices, and what many describe as an ‘illegal war’ with Iran.

Organizers emphasized nonviolent demonstrations, mindful of security concerns. However, human rights groups have warned protesters to remain cautious of immigration agents present at the sites and the potential for control measures under the pretext of countering ‘Antifa’ elements.

The Trump administration has already issued warnings of tough legal action against such protesters.

Milan Rai and Sunsari Take Top Honors in Budhanilkantha-Shivapuri Open Trail Race

News Summary

  • Milan Rai and Sunsari Rokaya secured first place in the men’s and women’s categories respectively at the Budhanilkantha-Shivapuri Open Trail Race.
  • Milan completed the 15-kilometer course in 1 hour, 35 minutes, and 46 seconds, while Sunsari finished in 1 hour, 58 minutes, and 4 seconds.
  • The race saw participation from 240 athletes.

Kathmandu, 28 March – Milan Rai and Sunsari Rokaya claimed first place in the Budhanilkantha-Shivapuri Open Trail Race held on Saturday. Milan topped the men’s category, while Sunsari led the women’s field in the 15-kilometer race.

Organized by Ward No. 3 of Budhanilkantha Municipality to promote internal tourism, Milan completed the designated 15-kilometer distance in 1 hour, 35 minutes, and 46 seconds. Pratap Thamsuhang secured the second position with a time of 1 hour, 36 minutes, and 4 seconds, followed by Karan Rawal who finished third in 1 hour, 36 minutes, and 46 seconds. Lokendra Rai and Bishal Rai came in fourth and fifth respectively.

In the women’s category, Sunsari completed the race in 1 hour, 58 minutes, and 4 seconds. State Lakshmi Rawal was second with a time of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 7 seconds, while Geeta Nepali finished third in 2 hours, 10 minutes, and 22 seconds. Ashma Bik and Manju Sunuwar took fourth and fifth places respectively.

Cash prizes of NPR 40,000, 25,000, and 15,000 were awarded to the first three winners in both categories. The athletes placing fourth and fifth each received NPR 5,000.

The awards were jointly presented by Ward 3 Chairperson Akash Dhital and Olympian runner Santoshi Shrestha.

According to Vikas Tamang, a Ward 3 member and the event coordinator, the race attracted 240 participants.

The race began and concluded at the Budhanilkantha temple complex, covering various locations along the route.

धनगढीमा पनि ओली–लेखकको रिहा माग्दै प्रदर्शन – Online Khabar

Protest in Dhangadhi Demands Release of Oli and Lekhak

14 Chaitra, Dhangadhi – A protest was held in Dhangadhi demanding the release of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. According to a central circular from the CPN-UML, 23 active district organizations jointly organized the demonstration on Saturday afternoon.

The rally marched from the UML party office to the main gate of the District Administration Office, carrying placards with various slogans and chanting against the government.

Protesters called for the immediate release of Oli and Ramesh Lekhak.

Following the protest, a corner meeting was held on the road in front of the District Administration Office, featuring speeches by Kuber Khadka, president of ANERASWAVIU Kailali; Madan Regmi, leader of the Farmers’ Federation of Sudurpashchim; and Lokendra Singh, central deputy general secretary of the Landless Squatters’ Organization.

They accused the government led by Balendra Shah of adopting a policy of retaliation against Oli and Lekhak, urged their immediate release, and warned that failure to do so would lead to further protests.

CPN-UML Karnali Leader Mall Arrested on Rape Charges


March 27, Kathmandu – The police have arrested Karnabahadur Mall, a leader of the CPN-UML in Karnali Province, on charges of rape.

Mall, 52, originally from Soru Rural Municipality-10 in Mugu district and currently residing in Chandragiri Municipality-7, Kathmandu, was detained on Saturday.

He was apprehended from Lalitpur Metropolitan City-15, according to Lalitpur Senior Superintendent of Police Hobindra Bogati.

The arrest follows a complaint filed by a woman accusing Mall of rape. Based on this complaint, the police took him into custody on Saturday.

The team from the Lalitpur District Police Office and the Satdobato Police Post were involved in Mall’s arrest.

The victim had filed the police complaint on February 17 and had received public support a short time ago while staging a sit-in protest at Maitighar.

*Earlier reports incorrectly stated that he was about to become a member of the Constituent Assembly; this has been corrected – Editor

Iran Enters a Month-Long Internet Blackout Amid Military Attacks


April 4, Kathmandu – According to internet monitoring organization NetBlocks, the ongoing ‘blackout’ in Iran has now lasted a full month as of today, Saturday.

Since February 28, when the United States and Israel initiated military attacks against Iran, the country’s internet services have been completely shut down.

Recent data shows that Iranian citizens have been entirely cut off from global internet access for more than 672 hours.

NetBlocks’ graph indicates that Iran’s internet connectivity capacity has dropped to just 1 percent of normal levels.

This restriction has made it difficult for the general public to access independent information during the conflict and to stay alert to potential attacks.

Iranian officials have implemented a ‘whitelist’ system, granting limited internet access solely to certain government agencies and trusted individuals.

This blackout is considered one of the longest and most severe internet shutdowns in modern history.

10th PM Cup NVBA Volleyball League to Start from April 22; Winner to Receive NPR 1 Million Prize

News Summary

Prepared after editorial review.

  • The Nepal Volleyball Association (NVBA) is set to host the 10th Prime Minister’s Cup Volleyball League for men and women starting April 22.
  • The tournament will feature a total of 14 teams: 8 men’s and 6 women’s teams.
  • The champions will receive a prize of NPR 1 million, runners-up NPR 500,000, and third place NPR 250,000.

April 27, Kathmandu – The Nepal Volleyball Association (NVBA) will organize the 10th Prime Minister’s Cup NVBA Volleyball League for men and women, which is scheduled to begin on April 22.

The competition will be held until May 2 at the Covered Hall of the National Sports Council located in Tripureshwor. A total of 14 teams will participate, including 8 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams.

In the men’s category, teams include Help Nepal, Tribhuvan Army, Nepal Police, APF, Khiljee Youth Club (Lumbini), Western Rukum, Koshi Province, and Budhanilkantha Club. The women’s teams competing are New Diamond, Nepal Police, APF, Sudurpashchim, Everest Club, and Tribhuvan Army Club.

The tournament features equal prize money for both men and women. The winners will receive NPR 1 million, the runners-up NPR 500,000, and the third-place team NPR 250,000. This cash prize is the highest ever awarded in the history of volleyball in the country.

Additionally, the best player of the tournament will receive NPR 60,000, while top server, blocker, libero, spiker, setter, and coach will each be awarded NPR 30,000.

Himalaya Television will broadcast the matches live. Players from teams outside the Kathmandu Valley will receive a daily allowance of NPR 1,200 for snacks, and players within the valley will receive NPR 300 daily for refreshments.

Organizing the tournament is estimated to cost around NPR 11.5 million. Furthermore, each team is allowed to register up to three foreign players.

लेखकको गृहजिल्ला कञ्चनपुरमा कांग्रेस-एमालेको विरोध प्रदर्शन

Congress and UML Protest in Kanchanpur, Home District of Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak


March 17, Mahendranagar — The Nepali Congress is holding a protest in Kanchanpur, the home district of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.

The party initiated the demonstration in Mahendranagar, the district headquarters, in opposition to Lekhak’s arrest by the government on Saturday morning.

Starting from the party office, the Congress rally advanced towards Pushpalal Chowk via the Industrial and Commercial Association building.

According to District Secretary Bhim Bhatt, the protest will continue through the market area near the monument where King Mahendra’s statue has been reinstalled, culminating in a corner meeting at Pushpalal Chowk.

Meanwhile, the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has also joined the Congress-led protest. The UML became involved after the Congress rally moved from the party office towards Pushpalal Chowk.

The police arrested former Home Minister Lekhak on Saturday morning from his residence in Katunje, Bhaktapur. He has been detained at Police Battalion No. 2 in Maharajgunj.

Following Lekhak’s arrest, former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was also taken into custody and admitted to a teaching hospital in Maharajgunj.

The Nepali Congress has yet to issue a formal response regarding Lekhak’s arrest. However, the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has announced plans to launch programs to oppose the government in response to Chairman Oli’s detention.

UML Activists Assault Journalists During Protest in Chyasal

A group of journalists was driven away by UML activists. Later, the police instructed the journalists to leave without taking videos or photos.


News Summary

Reviewed in context.

  • Journalists were assaulted by UML activists protesting the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
  • While covering the UML secretariat meeting, journalists were targeted by activists who attempted to remove their cameras inside the party office premises.
  • During a demonstration on the corridor bridge in Chyasal, where tires were burned, journalists faced physical aggression and verbal abuse from UML activists.

April 14, Kathmandu – Some UML activists assaulted journalists who were reporting from the party office in protest against the arrest of former Prime Minister and UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli.

Journalists covering the secretariat meeting faced aggression from activists inside the party premises who tried to forcibly take their cameras away.

Following the secretariat meeting, UML activists staged a protest by burning tires on the corridor bridge in Chyasal. During this demonstration, journalists taking photos and videos were physically attacked and verbally abused.

The activists targeted journalists including Kaushal Kafle and Prasun Sangroula from an online news portal, and Daya Dudraj from Kantipur.

While assaulting the journalists, they said, “Where was your camera when the country was burning? Where was your phone when Singha Durbar was set on fire yesterday? What have you come to film now?”

Earlier, the activists had chased away several journalists, verbally abusing them along the way. From the UML office in Chyasal to the corridor bridge, they persistently pushed back the media personnel with insults and threats.

एमाले प्रदर्शनले माइतीघर क्षेत्र तनावग्रस्त – Online Khabar

Tensions Rise in Maitighar Following UML Protest Against KP Sharma Oli’s Arrest

News Summary

Reviewed.

  • The police arrested CPN UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli early morning on 14th Chaitra.
  • In response, 23 affiliated UML organizations staged protests violating the curfew at Maitighar.
  • The protests triggered tensions in the Maitighar area, prompting police to take control measures.

14th Chaitra, Kathmandu – Tensions escalated in the Maitighar area following protests by CPN UML party workers opposing the arrest of their Chairman, KP Sharma Oli.

Police detained Chairman KP Sharma Oli early this morning, which led 23 UML-affiliated organizations to unite in staging a protest in Maitighar as a form of dissent.

Protesters violated the existing curfew as they advanced toward New Baneshwor, prompting police to initiate strict actions to regain control. This has resulted in heightened tensions within the Maitighar vicinity.