Who is Andy Burnham, the upcoming Prime Minister of the United Kingdom? At 52 years old, Andy Burnham is widely seen as a strong candidate to become the UK’s 59th Prime Minister. He has received full backing from Labour Party MPs for the party leadership, turning this possibility into a likely reality. Burnham previously faced defeat twice in leadership contests. However, following Keir Starmer’s resignation, the path opened up for Burnham to assume both the Labour Party leadership and the prime ministership.
US Vice President JD Vance has accused certain elements within the Israeli government of attempting to influence American policy and public opinion to prolong the war with Iran. Speaking on ‘The Joe Rogan Experience Podcast,’ Vance said Israel is seeking to continue its military campaign indefinitely without a clear objective. His serious remarks come amid escalating tensions marked by reciprocal attacks on US and Iranian military positions.
On July 17, Kathmandu – Vice President Vance alleged that within the Israeli government and society, some groups want to unnecessarily extend the conflict with Iran. According to him, these factions are attempting to affect US policy and public sentiment. On the episode of ‘The Joe Rogan Experience Podcast’ aired Wednesday, Vance stated, “I have no doubt that some individuals within the Israeli government are trying to change our policy because they want to continue the military operations.”
He further emphasized that the United States is fully convinced that certain Israeli system actors are trying to influence public opinion and alter policies in America. According to Vance, this effort is not aimed at achieving any clear strategic objective but solely to prolong the war indefinitely. His remarks come at a tense moment when Iran has attacked US military bases in the Middle East, and the US has claimed to have launched strikes against Iranian military forces.
The Ministry of Information and Communications has appointed four new members to the Nepal Telecommunications Authority. Kshetragopal Pradhan, Anant Mallik, Nilamkumar Ojha, and Sujita Shrestha have been appointed as members of the Authority. Communications Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina has directed the newly appointed members to perform their duties with a results-oriented approach, keeping the country and its people at the center. (June 16, Kathmandu)
Four new members have been appointed to the Nepal Telecommunications Authority. Following a decision at the ministerial level of the Ministry of Information and Communications, four new members have joined the Authority. Kshetragopal Pradhan will serve as the member responsible for accounts and auditing, Anant Mallik for technical and administrative matters, Nilamkumar Ojha for legal affairs, and Sujita Shrestha for market management.
Addressing the newly appointed members, Communications Minister Dr. Bikram Timilsina emphasized that the Authority is a crucial body directly involved in the development, expansion, and regulation of the telecommunications sector. Therefore, it is essential to carry out responsibilities with a focus on the country and its citizens. “Work for the institution you represent by prioritizing the nation and its people. This institution and position are viewed with great importance. Your efforts will shape the future development of the telecommunications sector, so please act responsibly and with a results-driven mindset,” said Minister Dr. Timilsina.
This week, ministers from the Nepali Congress resigned from the CPN UML-led government in Karnali Province. In Sudurpashchim Province, ministers from the CPN UML were dismissed from the Nepali Congress-led government, and the UML withdrew its support from the government. Leaders have stated that these developments in these two provinces will have an impact across all seven provinces.
Earlier, after an agreement between the Nepali Congress and the CPN UML to change the federal government leadership, KP Sharma Oli became Prime Minister, and joint governments between the two parties were formed in all seven provinces. However, last year in Bhadra, following the Jan G Jhat movement, the Oli government fell. Currently, the joint governments in the provinces are facing crises. In Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Sudurpashchim, the chief ministers are from Nepali Congress, while in Koshi, Lumbini, and Karnali, the chief ministers belong to the CPN UML. The Nepali Congress General Secretary has expressed doubts over the stability and longevity of these provincial governments under the present circumstances.
Nepali Congress General Secretary Pradeep Paudel described the instability observed in provincial governments as a result of non-cooperation from the UML. He stated, “For example, there was an issue regarding the budget in Sudurpashchim Province. We had time to resolve it, but the UML side did not pay attention.” He also mentioned that the Congress faces two options moving forward. “The likelihood of maintaining the alliance with the UML is decreasing. If they seek to form a government with the left alliance, we are ready to facilitate that.”
Iran has released Dana Karari, an American-Iranian citizen who had been detained since December 2024.
US President Donald Trump confirmed via social media that she is now safely outside Iran.
President Trump praised this move by Iran as an act of goodwill.
Iran has released Dana Karari, an American-Iranian citizen who had been held in custody since December 2024. US President Donald Trump confirmed the news.
According to Trump, she is now safe outside Iran and is in good condition. On Thursday, Trump praised Iran’s decision, describing it as a gesture of goodwill.
He wrote on the social media platform Truth Social, “Iran has allowed an American citizen who was wrongfully detained during former President Joe Biden’s administration in December 2024 to leave the country.”
The US president added, “She is now safely out of Iran and in good health. America appreciates this goodwill gesture.”
This release comes amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran. The escalating disputes and ongoing US military activities in the Strait of Hormuz make this incident particularly significant.
Following a thorough review of news summaries, it has been found that the risk posed by unauthorized nudify apps, which generate explicit content of others online, has surged rapidly due to social networks like YouTube and X. A report by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) reveals that between December 2025 and March 2026, there were over 5.7 million visits to such sites through social media platforms. Research shows that nudify apps not only serve for sexual gratification but also aim to inflict character assassination and ruin lives.
Kathmandu, 16 July – With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), the threat of nudify apps that produce explicit images and videos without consent has significantly increased on the internet. According to a recent report by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), these objectionable apps are spreading not just within the internet’s dark web but also accessibly through popular social media platforms we use daily, such as YouTube and X (formerly Twitter). The study indicates that within the brief timeframe from December 2025 to March 2026 alone, different social networks directed over 5.7 million visits to such websites, making these platforms major conduits for promoting nudify apps.
YouTube emerged as the largest source directing users to nudify websites, accounting for more than 30 percent of total traffic—approximately 1.82 million visits. Similarly, X, owned by Elon Musk, ranked as the second-largest medium, contributing over 1.3 million visits to these sites. Researchers noted that by simply searching related terms on YouTube, one can easily find videos that advertise, review, or even provide free “promo codes” for these apps.
Another report by Wired estimates that, because these apps leverage AI to generate nude images for as little as one dollar, the industry could be generating up to $36 million annually from these platforms. The research further reveals that these apps frequently target girlfriends or female relatives, pursuing malicious goals beyond mere sexual gratification, including destroying reputations, forcing job loss, and ruining lives.
While social networks have rules banning obscene content and links to such websites on their platforms, ISD senior director of Policy and Research, Melanie Smith, points out that these policies have not been effectively enforced. Responding to this issue, YouTube spokesperson Boot Bulwinkle asserted that the platform maintains strict policies to block such objectionable content and external links and promptly removes any videos found violating these standards.
Video caption begins, Tusks of wild elephant ‘Dhurbe’ responsible for a human fatality have been removed
Tusks of wild elephant ‘Dhurbe’ responsible for human death have been removed
Article Information
After nearly 10 days of search and monitoring, officials from Chitwan National Park reportedly anesthetized the wild elephant named ‘Dhurbe’ last night, fitting a radio collar around its neck and removing its tusks.
Following an attack by ‘Dhurbe’ on Ashad 20 (July 4) in Bharatpur Metropolitan City-23, Belhattha, which resulted in the death of a mother and her child, the search for this elephant was intensified.
The elephant was located near the Sukhibhar post inside the park, where it was sedated using a dart.
Technical personnel from the Nepal Army, National Trust for Nature Conservation, and the National Park together spent approximately 45 minutes removing the tusks and fitting the satellite-based radio collar on Dhurbe’s neck, the park authorities informed.
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An Indian citizen in Utah, USA, was attacked with a knife due to his religious beliefs.
Accused Peter Michael Larson reportedly stabbed the victim approximately 15 times after asking about his religion.
The Indian Consulate General has expressed sorrow over the incident and pledged full support to the victim’s family.
June 14, Kathmandu – An Indian citizen was attacked in the US state of Utah over his religious faith. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon at Valley City Mall in West Valley City.
According to media reports, Peter Michael Larson assaulted Indian national Syed Sohailuddin, who works at the mall. The victim was stabbed approximately 15 times.
The accused is alleged to have asked the victim about his religion before the attack. Larson told police that he targeted Sohailuddin due to his religious beliefs.
The police arrested Larson on charges of attempted murder and possession of a prohibited dangerous weapon. The injured Sohailuddin was hospitalized and underwent surgery. Local residents who intervened to stop the attacker were also beaten and admitted to the hospital.
The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
In a statement, the Consulate General said, “We are in contact with the victim’s family and close associates and remain committed to providing all possible assistance. We are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with local authorities.”
The Third International Indigenous Mother Tongue Journalists Conference is scheduled to take place in Kathmandu from August 10 to 13. Organized by the Nepal Indigenous Nationality Journalists Federation, the conference will see participation from 60 journalists representing 27 countries. Held in conjunction with the World Indigenous Peoples’ Day and the 27th anniversary of PHONIK, the event aims to strengthen mother tongue journalism through the presentation of various scholarly papers.
The United Nations has declared the period from 2022 to 2032 as the ‘International Decade of Indigenous Languages,’ a campaign dedicated to the protection, promotion, and revitalization of indigenous languages worldwide. The conference’s inaugural sessions will occur on August 10 and 11, followed by thematic paper presentations from August 12 to 13 by national and international experts across eight topics. Alongside these presentations, panel discussions, interactive sessions, and open forums will facilitate shared conclusions on the current status and potential improvements in mother tongue journalism.
The train crew captured video footage from inside the train as a wildfire spread outside in Canada. Subsequently, the crew safely evacuated the area. Numerous wildfires have broken out across northwestern Ontario.
According to CN Rail, train services in the affected regions have been temporarily suspended, and staff members have been reassigned to other duties.
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Central Government to conduct daily health check-ups and provide necessary treatment to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.
The bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tejas Kari emphasized the value of every citizen’s life while issuing the directive.
After hearing a public interest litigation filed by advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini, the court concluded the matter based on Solicitor General Tushar Mehta’s assurance.
On Thursday, the Delhi High Court directed the Central Government to ensure that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk undergoes daily health examinations by doctors.
Recognizing his deteriorating health, the court instructed the government to provide necessary medical treatment promptly.
This directive was issued by a bench led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay along with Justice Tejas Kari.
The order followed a hearing on a public interest litigation filed seeking immediate medical intervention for Wangchuk.
During proceedings, the court stated, ‘Every citizen’s life is valuable, and the government must make all possible efforts to protect it.’
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central Government, assured the court that government-appointed doctors and medical experts are monitoring Wangchuk’s health continuously.
He added that appropriate medical treatment will be provided based on the doctors’ reports if deemed necessary.
The court expressed appreciation for the Solicitor General’s commitment and mandated daily health check-ups as well as timely treatment for Wangchuk.
Following this, the court concluded the public interest litigation filed by advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini.
Saini had requested directions for the Central and Delhi Governments to immediately admit Wangchuk to a hospital and provide essential treatment.
He also urged that if necessary, Wangchuk be forcibly fed to safeguard his life and health.
Wangchuk began a hunger strike on June 28. Senior General Physician Dr. Satish Lambat issued a health bulletin on the 19th day of the strike.
According to him, by the 19th day of fasting, Wangchuk’s weight had reduced by more than nine kilograms, though his body’s water level remains normal.
When operating an AC in hot weather, setting it to fan mode for the first 10 minutes helps expel the stale air from the room and reduces unnecessary pressure on the compressor. The use of ACs is increasing in both offices and homes. Often, upon entering a hot room, people immediately switch the AC to cooling mode in an attempt to quickly cool down the space. However, experts advise against this practice. The proper way to use an AC is to run it on fan mode for 5 to 10 minutes right after switching it on. This process clears out the accumulated old air inside the room and only then should the AC be switched to cooling mode.
According to specialists, turning the AC directly to a low-temperature cooling mode after switching it on causes significant pressure on the compressor, forcing the machine to work harder. By first running the fan mode for a few minutes to eliminate the stagnant air, the AC can operate more gradually, preventing a sudden load on the compressor. This improves the efficiency and performance of the AC.
Starting the AC directly in cooling mode also increases moisture inside the room. If the fan mode is not used before switching off the AC, this moisture can accumulate dirt and promote unpleasant odors later on. Therefore, experts recommend running the fan mode for 10 to 15 minutes before turning off the AC. This helps remove internal moisture and ensures the air coming from the AC remains clean and fresh. This practice reduces pressure on the AC, lowers electricity consumption, and extends the machine’s lifespan.
Proper operation of the AC alone is not sufficient; regular maintenance is also essential. If dust accumulates on filters and internal components, cooling efficiency decreases and electricity consumption rises. Experts recommend performing comprehensive servicing of the AC at least once or twice a year. If cleanings are done personally, filters should be cleaned every 2–3 weeks to maintain good airflow and ensure the machine runs smoothly for a longer period without issues.
Officials have indicated that the government is preparing to amend its initial decision to impose tax on electricity charges. The decision requiring a five percent value-added tax (VAT) on electricity consumption exceeding 50 units per month faced widespread criticism. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle stated during the parliamentary session on Ashar 11 (June 25) that “the decision will be adjusted so that final consumers do not bear excessive burden.”
According to Amrit Lamsal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance, the finance minister’s proposal to make the VAT on electricity charges simpler and more appropriate is in its final stage. He added, “The Inland Revenue Department has drafted guidelines for this and these will be published once approved.” Minister Wagle also informed that discussions are ongoing with the Energy Minister on this matter, mentioning, “Decisions benefiting consumers and the general public will be announced effective from Shrawan 1 (July 16).”
Shrawan 1 falls on a Friday. Shaligram Bhandari, assistant spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy, stated that since this issue falls under the Finance Ministry’s jurisdiction, he is not aware of the details. While there may have been ministerial discussions, he said he remains uninformed. An official from the Inland Revenue Department said the guidelines have been sent to the ministry and remarked, “A decision could be made within a few hours.”
Finance Ministry spokesperson Amrit Lamsal has also not provided detailed statements on the matter. When presenting the budget for fiscal year 2083/84, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle had noted, “A provision has been made to levy VAT with relief on electricity consumption above 50 units for end consumers.” According to information from officials, a five percent VAT was decided for consumption exceeding 50 units per month.
Officials have indicated that the government plans to modify its initial decision to impose tax on electricity charges.
The original decision required a 5% value-added tax (VAT) on electricity charges for consumption exceeding 50 units per month, which faced widespread criticism.
Recently, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle spoke at the House of Representatives on Ashad 11 (June 26), assuring that the adjustments would be made so that the final consumer would not bear a higher burden.
According to Amrit Lamsal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance, the finance minister’s proposal to simplify the VAT application on electricity charges is now in the final stages.
“The Inland Revenue Department has prepared the directives, which will be made public once approved,” he stated.
Finance Minister Wagle noted ongoing discussions with the Energy Minister on this matter, adding, “Decisions in the interest of consumers and the general public will be announced from Shrawan 1 (July 16).”
July 16 falls on Friday. Assistant spokesperson of the Ministry of Energy, Shaligram Bhandari, stated he is not aware of details, as this issue falls under the Finance Ministry’s jurisdiction.
He said he is unaware if discussions have taken place at the ministerial level.
’Final Preparations’ Underway at the Ministry of Finance
Image Source, BBC/Sharad KC
An official of the Inland Revenue Department confirmed that the department has sent the directives to the ministry.
The official added that a decision could be made within a few hours.
However, even with the directive sent, specifics of any amendments are not yet clear.
“Likely, the ministry will finalize this issue today and provide an update in a few hours,” the official added.
Finance Ministry spokesperson Amrit Lamsal has also not provided definitive information on the matter.
During the budget presentation for fiscal year 2083/84 BS (2026/27 AD), Finance Minister Wagle had stated, “A 5% value-added tax will be applied with reliefs for final consumers consuming more than 50 units of electricity monthly.”
Officials confirmed that the decision to levy 5% VAT on usage beyond 50 units had been made earlier.
Plan to Either Cancel VAT or Broaden Its Coverage?
Image Source, Getty Images
Following intense criticism, Finance Minister Wagle had committed to adjusting this proposal and indicated he was exploring alternatives during the parliamentary session.
“If a 5% VAT must be levied, we will increase the free consumption limit to ensure 95% of Nepalese consumers remain unaffected,” Minister Wagle said.
An official from the Inland Revenue Department stated that senior officials are currently discussing the finalization of this decision with the Ministry of Finance.
A Finance Ministry official added, “It appears the decision will remain within the bounds of the minister’s parliamentary statement.”
Analysis of Benefits and Drawbacks
Nepal Electricity Authority has approximately 5.8 million customers nationwide.
Customers with monthly consumption below 20 units currently pay a minimum fee.
According to Haribahadur Khatri, information officer of the Electricity Regulatory Commission, meters with 5 ampere capacity have a fixed minimum monthly tariff of NPR 30, which does not include consumption charges.
Nepal Electricity Authority reports that roughly 1.7 to 1.8 million customers fall under this category.
The Authority does not have exact figures on customers whose monthly consumption exceeds 50 units.
However, officials estimate that this number could range between 4 to 4.5 million, including industrial consumers.
Some analysts believe the government aims to collect VAT from domestic consumers whose monthly consumption surpasses 50 units.
However, the exact number of such consumers is unclear and estimates vary among current and former officials.
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June 16, Kathmandu — Following the renewed conflict between the United States and Iran, Pakistan has announced its ongoing commitment to facilitate dialogue between both parties. Tahir Andarabi, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared this information during a press briefing in Islamabad.
Previously, through Pakistan’s mediation, the US and Iran had engaged in peace talks resulting in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at ending the war. It was anticipated that a formal peace agreement would be reached shortly thereafter. However, with the escalation of hostilities once again, Pakistan has issued this response.
“There are numerous challenges in implementing the agreement,” stated Tahir Andarabi, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. “Nonetheless, Pakistan continues to urge all parties to cease violence and resume negotiations at the technical level.” He also expressed hope that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will stabilize soon.