The storm named ‘Rachel’ that struck Southern California in the United States has caused significant damage. The impact of this storm has led to flooding in the Las Vegas area, where water levels have risen to knee-deep in various locations.
October 14, Kathmandu – Saudi Arabia has launched an investigation into the deadly attack carried out by Houthi rebels on King Khalid International Airport in the capital, Riyadh. International media reports that the probe is focused on why the air defense system failed to intercept the missile launched by the Houthis. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels’ assault on King Khalid International Airport resulted in at least 13 deaths and over 300 injuries.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Houthis launched multiple drones initially, followed by cruise and ballistic missiles. These drones and missiles, fired from Yemen, traveled over a thousand kilometers to target the Riyadh airport. The Associated Press (AP) reports that the investigation also seeks to understand why the air defense system did not provide prior warning of the attack.
Early findings suggest the Houthi rebels possess warheads capable of altering trajectory mid-flight and advanced weapon systems. These weapons are believed to challenge Saudi Arabia’s missile defense mechanisms, including the Patriot missile system. Following attacks on Saudi airports, flights operated by Etihad and Qatar Airways have been suspended, disrupting air services across the Gulf region. Both airlines have canceled or postponed flights to various Saudi cities.
On Monday night, at least three explosions were heard in Riyadh. Civil defense officials subsequently stated that the threat situation had been contained for the time being. However, the Houthis targeted King Khalid International Airport explicitly. They have declared other Saudi airports, besides those in Mecca and Medina, unsafe and issued warnings to international airlines. The Riyadh airport remained closed on Monday following the attack.
U.S. President Donald Trump said he is considering military action against the Houthis following the deadly attack at Riyadh airport. Trump mentioned a conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday but did not disclose further details. He described the Houthis as a “very bad group” and stated that it will soon become clear whether the United States will take steps to defend Saudi Arabia or not.
A notable number of Chinese nationals are among foreign citizens overstaying their visas in Nepal for various purposes. According to Immigration Department spokesperson Geeta Ghimire, “Overall statistics show that among foreigners coming to Nepal, Chinese nationals are a significant group, and they also constitute a large portion of those overstaying and facing deportation.” She added, “If they engage in activities contrary to visa conditions, appropriate actions are taken.”
In recent years, Nepal’s reputation as an affordable destination has attracted foreigners who overstay for different reasons. Department data indicates that from January 1 to October 12, 2023, a total of 469 foreign nationals have been deported for overstaying and other offenses, with 103 of them being Chinese citizens—the highest among all nationalities. The Immigration Department follows established rules and procedures to deport those who violate visa terms.
The department issues business visas to foreign investors in Nepal for trade and commercial purposes; however, these visas cannot be used for employment, labor, or unrelated activities. Former Director General Umesh Mainali observed, “Weak internal administration has contributed to the rise in overstayers in Nepal.” He further emphasized, “In today’s digital age, it is possible to trace where an individual has gone and which hotel they stayed at.”
According to the Immigration Rules of 1994 (2051 BS) and Procedures of 2008 (2065 BS), tourists are not permitted to stay beyond 150 days. Persons found staying longer or working contrary to the visa’s purpose will be deported. The Immigration Act provides that foreigners who violate laws may be barred from re-entering Nepal for a period ranging from one to ten years.
Kathmandu: Xtreme Energy Drink has launched the ‘Xtreme Music Series’ with the aim of promoting the emotions, creativity, and originality of the new generation in Nepali music. Officially starting on October 10, this series seeks to offer audiences a unique experience through original music and innovative visuals.
Managed by Arbitrary Records and produced by NFTP (North From This Planet), this series is based on the concept of Xtreme Energy Drink. Every two weeks, a new original song will be released as part of the series. Songs and music videos can be viewed and listened to on the Xtreme Music Series YouTube channel.
The first season features nine artists: Yabesh, ST Man, Vek, Byoma, Blues, Bijen, Phoktonics, Dong, and Krizen. Each artist will bring their distinct musical style and creative identity to make the series even more exciting.
This initiative aims to encourage new musical experimentation, creative collaboration, and independent expression, diverging from traditional styles. Through this series, Xtreme Energy Drink hopes to showcase talent in the Nepali music scene and contribute to the promotion of local musical culture.
As part of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, Nepal will compete against Oman today in their second One Day International (ODI) match at Al Amerat, Oman. The match is scheduled to start at 11:15 AM Nepali time. Nepal had previously defeated Canada in the opening game, where Rohit Paudel scored a century. However, following Oman’s victory over Canada on Friday, Nepal’s chances of finishing in the top four have ended, meaning they will now have to participate in the playoffs. (October 14, Kathmandu)
The second match of the League 2 series underway in Oman will be played at the Ministry Turf 1 ground in Al Amerat, beginning at 11:15 AM Nepali time. Nepal had secured a win in their first game against Canada, highlighted by Rohit Paudel’s century. Prior to this, Oman had defeated Canada on Friday. Despite Oman’s win eliminating Nepal from the top four positions, the Nepali team is now focused on maintaining its ODI status.
In the League 2 points table, Nepal currently holds sixth place with 26 points from 33 matches, while Canada is seventh with 25 points from 34 matches. Oman leads with 33 points from 29 matches. Since Nepal failed to reach the top four, the team will compete in the final round of the World Cup ODI qualifiers through the playoffs, where Namibia, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates will also participate. Nepal is expected to finish either fifth or sixth in League 2. While the ICC has not explicitly clarified the rules regarding ODI status, it is anticipated that finishing as low as sixth place will still ensure Nepal retains its ODI recognition.
Youth activists in India returned to Delhi last weekend demanding the resignation of the country’s highest election official. At the forefront is 29-year-old PhD student Neha Bora, a prominent representative of this movement. Neha Bora is a theatre artist and has served as the president of the central left-wing student organization “All India Students Association” (AISA) for the past two years.
However, her activism extends beyond the campus, as she is currently active on a broader scale. Recently, some viral video footage showed a group of female police officers dragging her on the street; she resisted the police restriction by raising her fist and shouting slogans before being arrested. Images of her smiling even as female officers controlled her have also circulated widely.
Despite the widespread attention, Neha herself has downplayed the significance of these viral discussions and incidents in an interview with BBC Bangla. “I am aware that the event happened in front of cameras, so it appears differently,” she said, “but I have seen that all AISA student activists have acted as I did. It is only because the camera was focused on me that people have a different perspective.”
The spotlight on Neha comes amid intense protests taking place across India’s streets, seen as the most significant challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 12-year tenure.
As the US midterm elections approach, President Donald Trump faces a range of international challenges including the Russian diesel agreement, uncertainty over a Ukraine ceasefire, and escalating tensions in the Middle East. Four Republican senators along with Democratic lawmakers have called on Trump to immediately reverse his decision to resume imports of Russian fuel. Although Trump announced an energy ceasefire, Russia continues attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and diesel prices remain above six dollars per gallon. Kathmandu, October 14 – With just weeks to go before the US midterms, Trump confronts increasing difficulties in managing global developments. The Russian diesel deal has sparked dissent within his own party, the uncertain energy truce with Ukraine raises concerns, and unrest in the Middle East threatens to drive up global oil prices. These form a challenging diplomatic landscape for the president.
In an effort to reduce fuel costs and ease voter dissatisfaction, Trump’s plans have been complicated by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and mounting Middle Eastern instability. The midterm elections will determine which party controls Congress, with early voting already underway in some competitive regions. Trump has pursued a strategy aimed at lowering fuel prices by reestablishing ties with Russia, yet the expected smooth outcomes have not materialized on the international stage. The Russian diesel agreement, uncertainty over an energy ceasefire in Ukraine, and escalating violence in the Middle East collectively increase the risk of greater volatility in global energy markets.
Dissent against the Russian diesel deal has grown within Trump’s own Republican ranks. Last Friday afternoon, Trump announced a new agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin under which the US would import large volumes of Russian diesel fuel in the coming months. High fuel costs remain a significant source of voter frustration in America, especially affecting the agriculture sector reliant on diesel. In Midwestern states, diesel is heavily used for operating agricultural machinery and transporting produce to markets. Four Republican senators and several Democratic members of Congress have jointly penned a letter urging Trump to halt Russian fuel imports immediately. Polls indicate that US voters increasingly blame the Iran conflict as a primary factor driving fuel prices higher. Support for Trump is also weakening as voters express concerns about his handling of the wars and the economy.
The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) presented special recognition awards, including certificates of appreciation, to four officials from the Nepal Olympic Committee and one sports journalist from Nepal during the 20th Asian Games.
Among those honored were Ramkrishna Shrestha, Secretary of the Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC); member Lakpa Chiring Lama; Executive Secretary Sujanlal Shrestha; IT and Communications Officer Ayush Joshi; and sports journalist Prajit Shakya of the Gorakhapatra Daily. Each received medals of honor along with certificates from the OCA.
These individuals were recognized for their unparalleled contributions to promoting and propagating the values of sportsmanship, unity, and participation associated with Asia’s largest multi-sport event. The 20th Asian Games were held from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi Nagoya, Japan, drawing approximately 17,000 athletes and officials from 45 countries.
Nepal participated with 135 athletes competing across 21 sports. During the Games, Nepal secured two bronze medals: Tenzing Sherpa in karate and the women’s kabaddi team.
Durga FC secured the championship of the RTP Dashain Cup football tournament held at Apex Nature Park in North Carolina, USA. In the final match played on Sunday night, Durga FC defeated Machhapuchhre FC by a 4–1 goal margin. The victorious Durga FC received the trophy along with goats and medals.
Goals for Durga FC were scored by Bhuvan Singh Karki, Saman Dhaubadel, Raj Khadka, and Avinas Rajbhandari, while Ravin Regmi scored the lone goal for Machhapuchhre FC. The trophy and medals were presented to Durga FC by Apex municipal council members Arno Jegerman and Shane Reese.
According to organizing member Tankha Seling, the competition was held to promote unity, brotherhood, and social harmony within the Nepali community. The tournament, which began this year on September 18, has been conducted continuously for the past 10 years on the eve of Dashain. Vikas Sapkota stated that despite being based in the United States, this event continues to uphold Nepali festivals, culture, and traditions, helping to strengthen bonds within the community.
Durga FC captain Sunil KC remarked that the competition plays a crucial role in expanding connectivity, cooperation, and relationships among the Nepali diaspora while also reinforcing Nepali identity, culture, and community loyalty.
Katari Municipality secured championships in both the men’s and women’s categories at the second Shikhar Dhakal Memorial U-17 T-20 National Rugby Tournament. The finals were held on Monday at Khangsang in Fikkal Rural Municipality, Sindhuli, where Katari defeated the women’s team 1–0 and the men’s team 2–1. With this victory, Katari received the championship trophy along with a cash prize of 30,000 rupees each.
The runners-up Fikkal earned a cash prize of 20,000 rupees each in both categories. In the women’s contest, Budhanilkantha Municipality clinched third place by defeating Tokha Municipality 1–0, while in the men’s category, Golbazar Municipality secured third place by beating Budhanilkantha 3–0 in extra time. Both third-place teams received trophies and 10,000 rupees each.
Sanamika Magar from Katari was declared the best player in the women’s category, and Shishir Dhakal from Fikkal received the same honor on the men’s side. At the closing ceremony, Nepal Rugby Association President Dipak Devkota, Fikkal Rural Municipality Chairperson Parvati Sunuwar, Association General Secretary Govinda Ghimire, among others, presented trophies, medals, and certificates to the winning and runner-up teams. Chairperson Sunuwar thanked all participating teams and expressed confidence in continuing the tournament in the coming years.
A resettlement plan has been developed for residents affected by the floods.
The catastrophic floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers have swept away thousands of homes and submerged gravel beds. This disaster, which occurred in the month of Bhadra, displaced many individuals. Most of them are currently living in temporary camps or with relatives in other locations.
The displaced people are now seeking ways to rebuild their lives. While some have expressed a desire to return to their former homes, others have indicated that it is impossible to live there. Government officials and experts have warned that the risk of flooding along the riverbanks remains high in the future, advising against resettling communities in those areas. What plans has the government devised in this context? Listen to the conversation between Niranjan Rajbanshi and Prakash Aryal, Deputy Director General of the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction under the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, for ‘BBC Hatmalo’.
Jantar Mantar has been removed from the list of designated protest and dharna sites in Delhi. Based on recommendations from a committee appointed by the Central Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued a notice on Monday. Ramleela Maidan, Burari Maidan, and CBD Ground in East Delhi have now been designated as alternative venues to Jantar Mantar for protests and dharnas. October 13, Kathmandu.
Jantar Mantar is no longer authorized as a venue for protests and dharnas in Delhi, following a decision based on the recommendation of a committee formed by the Central Ministry of Home Affairs. Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued the official notice on Monday. The notice states that Ramleela Maidan, Burari Maidan, and East Delhi’s CBD ground have been designated as alternative locations for holding protests and dharnas. “The committee appointed by the Ministry of Home Affairs was tasked with reviewing alternatives to the current designated protest sites while respecting citizens’ right to protest and hold dharnas,” the notice explains. It also mentions that separate standard operating procedures (SOPs) will be issued for managing protests and dharnas at these three locations.
‘The government should provide safe locations’: Discussions continue over housing options for people displaced by floods. The devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers have destroyed or buried many homes under debris. Thousands of people were displaced following this disaster in the month of Bhadra.
The displaced population is deeply concerned and anxious about their rehabilitation. Some wish to return to their original homes, while others have expressed reluctance to resettle in the same area. Government officials and experts recommend prohibiting settlements along riverbanks given the ongoing flood risk. What do the local residents of Betrawati have to say about this issue?
The opposition parties in India have demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the mass removal of names from the voter rolls. On Monday, the Indian National Congress and the ‘India’ alliance organized a protest march titled ‘Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy’ to the Supreme Court in New Delhi. Chief Justice Surya Kant declined to meet Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, but Gandhi stated the march would continue unabated. October 12, Kathmandu.
The Election Commission’s removal of a large number of voters’ names from the electoral rolls has heightened political tensions. Opposition parties have accused the commission of large-scale manipulation and alleged ‘vote theft,’ demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. In this context, the Indian National Congress and leaders of the ‘India’ alliance staged a large protest march on Monday from central New Delhi to the Supreme Court.
Under the Congress event titled ‘Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy,’ opposition leaders and activists gathered in large numbers on Monday afternoon at 1:30 PM at the Connaught Place-Barakhamba Road junction in Delhi. Top opposition figures including Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge participated in the march from Connaught Place–Barakhamba Road area toward Mandi House, Feroz Shah Road, and finally the Supreme Court.
The Kukroch Janata Party also expressed full support for the opposition march. Posting on the social media platform ‘X,’ Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stated that this march represents not just a single party, gender, caste, community, or state, but is the collective voice of Indian citizens. Gandhi called on young people, all opposition parties, civil society groups, and all democracy defenders who support India’s constitution to join this fight to save democracy.
The atmosphere grew tense after police intervened forcefully and began making arrests during the protest against Chief Election Commissioner at the Supreme Court. Large numbers of security personnel were deployed in the Barakhamba Road and Mandi House areas, with tight security around the Supreme Court. The opposition alliance leaders aimed to submit a memorandum to Chief Justice Surya Kant regarding allegations of ‘vote theft’ and irregularities in the voter list. However, Chief Justice Surya Kant refused to meet Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge on the grounds that the matter is currently under consideration in the Supreme Court. Despite this refusal, Gandhi made it clear that the march to submit the memorandum to the Chief Justice, along with a delegation representing civil society and youth, will continue through the Supreme Court premises.
Thai Queen Flies Fighter Jet Solo
Published
The Thai Royal Palace has announced that Queen Suthida of Thailand has flown a fighter jet alone.
Last week, during her solo flight in the southern province of Surat Thani, King Maha Vajiralongkorn observed her flight from the ground.
According to the Royal Palace, Queen Suthida is an experienced pilot who began flying in 2010 and has accumulated a total of 1,188 hours flying various types of aircraft since then.
During royal tours, she has also served as co-pilot on aircraft transporting the King to other countries. King Maha Vajiralongkorn himself is also a licensed pilot.
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