Submit your Article

The Supreme Court has sought written explanations from the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, the Office of the Attorney-General, the District Attorney’s Office, Kathmandu (DAO) and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) regarding the exemption of former Prime Ministers Madhav Kumar Nepal and Baburam Bhattarai as well as former chief secretary Lilamani Poudel from the Lalita Niwas land-grab probe. 

A single bench of Justice Binod Sharma, following Tuesday’s hearing, sought explanations within 15 days from the above-mentioned offices as well as the two former PMs and former chief secretary Poudel in the high-profile scam involving the illegal transfer of the government-owned land (Lalita Niwas) located at Baluwatar in the name of influential individuals. 

The court was responding to a petition from senior advocate Balkrishna Neupane, who claimed that the three had been enjoying immunity in the case because of their clout. 

Additionally, the court has directed that this (Neupane’s) writ be attached with another petition concerning the land-grab, in which the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) had given the two former PMs a clean chit, stating that the Cabinet’s policy decisions were beyond the purview of its investigation.  

On Aug 27, DAO had filed cases at the Kathmandu District Court against 310 individuals vis-a-vis the land-grab, taking it as a case involving forgery of government documents, despite recommendations from the CIB to move the court by taking it as a case of organized crime, citing the ‘lack of clinching evidence’.

Among those charged with forgery are former Deputy Prime Minister Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar, former ministers Chandra Deo Joshi, Dambar Bahadur Shrestha and Chhabi Raj Pant along with former Minister of State Sanjay Sah. Former Chief Commissioner at the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, Deep Basnyat, and former government secretaries Dineshhari Adhikari, Narayan Gopal Malego and Yubaraj Bhusal have also been facing charges in the same case.

Furthermore, the police (CIB) probe into the case has identified ‘brokers’ Shobhakant Dhakal and Ram Kumar Subedi as well as Min Bahadur Gurung, the owner of Bhatbhateni Supermarket, as ‘important players’. But the ex-PMs have managed to avoid the investigation process by and large, though police have recorded their statements as government witnesses on the basis of an Aug 6 SC directive. In earlier proceedings in August, the court had mandated an inquiry to bring all individuals directly linked to specific Cabinet decisions made on 11 April 2010, 14 May 2010, 13 Aug 2010, and 4 Oct 2013 under scanner. This included those responsible for both drafting as well as executing cabinet decisions.

The Cabinet under Nepal had sanctioned the transfer of government-owned land to private individuals whereas the Bhattarai Cabinet had approved the registration of a portion of the prime property in the name of ‘Pashupati Tikinchha Guthi’.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) predicts that Nepal’s economy is set to achieve a growth rate of 4.3 percent in fiscal year 2024, signifying a significant improvement compared to the previous fiscal year when the country’s economic growth rate was limited to only 1.9 percent. In a similar vein, the ADB report forecasts a decrease in the annual average inflation to 6.2 percent in 2024 from 7.7 percent in 2023.

While a reduction in inflation would be beneficial, at present, it is close to eight percent. The economic downturn and inflation have impacted individuals from various walks of life, particularly students from outside the Kathmandu Valley pursuing higher education here. Pratik Ghimire from ApEx spoke with these working students to understand the challenges they face due to inflation.

Sushila Tamang, Nuwakot

As a working student in Kathmandu, I face the challenge of an increasing cost of living. My landlord has recently expressed the intention to raise the room rent, which adds to my financial burden. I’ve communicated with my landlord, urging them to consider the impact of inflation on my already tight budget. The rise in prices of groceries and various necessities has made it increasingly difficult for me to make ends meet.

While I empathize with my landlord’s situation and acknowledge the economic crisis affecting many, I believe there must be alternative solutions besides raising the rent. It’s essential for both parties to find a balance that ensures fair treatment and sustenance. I hope my landlord and others facing similar circumstances can explore options that don’t further strain the already challenged finances of individuals like myself. In addition, I call upon the government to address this issue promptly, as it affects numerous working students and individuals trying to navigate the financial complexities of living in Kathmandu. Finding a resolution will contribute to a more sustainable and equitable living situation for all.

Yuvraj Chaudhary, Dhanusha

Recession serves as a valuable life lesson for students, especially since many rely on their parents for financial support. I am among those students. This means that my peers and I face a double impact, affecting both our parents and ourselves. In many families, it’s evident that they are barely managing and making sacrifices to afford their children’s education. In some unfortunate cases, students are forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.

In response to rising prices, I have started embracing more cost-effective and sustainable alternatives. Many other students are also increasingly turning to digital copies (PDFs) of books and opting for laptops or tablets instead of traditional paper notebooks, which have become more expensive. Moreover, I am seeking out affordable food options, shifting away from fast food for breakfast and dinner. One positive aspect of this is that even undergraduates who used to frequent tea stalls for tea and smoking are striving to improve their habits.

Shristi Bista, Kailali

Living and pursuing education in Kathmandu comes with its own set of financial challenges, effectively doubling the financial burden as my family has to manage both expenses back home and here for my education. This situation has taken a significant emotional toll on me, recognizing the strain it places on families already managing tight budgets. Sustaining a livelihood in Kathmandu has become an immense struggle.

It’s been five years since my arrival in Kathmandu, and I immediately started working to support myself. However, over these years, my salary has seen only a minimal increment, barely keeping up with the soaring inflation rate, which has surged around triple. This presents a dire dilemma for a working student like myself, making it increasingly difficult to manage finances adequately.

I constantly worry about being able to fulfill my financial responsibilities towards my family, who have made significant sacrifices to provide me with a good education. The burden of inflation adds an extra layer of stress, making me ponder how much easier life would be without these financial constraints caused by rising prices. Finding a way to navigate this financial tightrope is an ongoing challenge, and I remain hopeful for better days ahead. The inflation has hit me emotionally.

Shasank Sekhar Neupane, Jhapa

I have now lived in Kathmandu for six years. For myself, I am a student who also works a part-time job to support my daily necessities. The inflation that is soaring day by day is the main reason I have recently found it arduous to support myself here in Kathmandu.

I have a lot of issues with room rent, internet costs, and bus fares because of the rising inflation as a student living in Kathmandu. Keeping costs under control while working with a tight budget has gotten more and more challenging. The cost of internet usage has dramatically increased, while the rent for a quality room has risen. It is now much more expensive to use public transport, which makes it more difficult for me to manage my education.

I’ve attempted to lower my costs by adopting various simple measures, avoiding meet-ups, and outdoor foods, and switching to a slower-speed internet, but it still feels difficult. The fact that everything’s costs are increasing daily, and I have so little money to spend on other necessities, is frustrating. This is not unique to me; several of my acquaintances who are also having financial difficulties have made similar comments.

Bungatun Rai, Khotang

I live with SOS Village, and all of my expenses are borne by them. So, I don’t have to face the consequences of inflation directly. But I’ve witnessed numerous fellow students grappling with the impacts of both inflation and the prevailing economic crisis. A close friend of mine used to save a portion of his earnings in cooperatives every month. However, with the crisis in full swing, a significant number of these cooperatives have collapsed. With inflation on the rise and our savings slipping out of our control, how can students like us endure these challenging circumstances?

As students, this economic turmoil poses a serious threat to our financial stability and overall well-being. We find ourselves in a precarious situation, struggling to find viable solutions to survive these trying times. The collapse of cooperatives, which were once considered a reliable avenue for saving and investment, only adds to our financial distress.

Rajnesh Shrestha, Dhading

Due to rising inflation, the lives of students have become increasingly challenging. This surge in prices has affected essential expenses like food, housing, transportation, and daily necessities, making it harder for students to make ends meet. Despite stagnant income levels, expenses keep mounting. For instance, the tuition fees for engineering students have more than doubled from Rs 700,000 to Rs 800,000 five years ago to now over Rs 1.5 million. Additionally, the cost of study materials has also surged, making it difficult for students to afford materials essential for fostering new ideas or innovations.

When students move to Kathmandu from outside, they often need to purchase everything required to establish a livelihood since they don't have their own accommodation. Financially disadvantaged students often need to work part-time, which unfortunately affects their academic pursuits. Shockingly, some students are working for wages lower than the government-mandated minimum wage, even after attaining a graduate level of education. These circumstances force students to seek opportunities abroad for sustenance after investing heavily in their education. Consequently, the population of youth and students in rural areas has declined due to this exodus.

Dibyadristi Lama, Makawanpur

I am a working student. Thankfully, I don’t place any financial burden on my family. However, the impact of inflation has become a noticeable factor, occasionally causing my expenses to surpass my earned income. This situation forces me to reach out to my parents for financial assistance, a circumstance that I view with a tinge of disappointment. I wish to spare my parents from the strain of added financial responsibility, especially given their residence in a rural setting. Nevertheless, there are times when I must set aside my reservations and request aid to manage my expenses adequately.

My situation is relatively better. It’s disheartening to witness the challenges faced by some of my friends. They, too, grapple with the effects of inflation, particularly evident in the doubled bus fares that make it difficult for them to visit their hometown. Consequently, they’re forced to endure the emotional burden of being unable to be present for their family members when they are sick. The economic dynamics at play in our lives have indeed reshaped the way we navigate our personal and familial obligations.

Binod Bista, Doti

As a student, I’ve encountered numerous challenges stemming from inflation, which have significantly influenced my daily routine. From the moment I begin my day to when I retire for the night, the effects of inflation are palpable. Upon waking up, my first encounter with inflation occurs when I purchase vegetables, witnessing a twofold increase in prices for essential kitchen items. Throughout the day, the impact persists as I utilize public transportation, observing the elevated fares for bus rides. Late into the evening, following my night class, I rely on ride-sharing services since public buses are not available at that hour. However, even these alternative transportation options have seen price hikes due to the escalating costs of petroleum products, further adding to the financial strain caused by inflation.

Inflation has taken a toll on my mental well-being as well. In my area, there have been three instances of looting recently. A significant factor driving people toward such criminal acts is the struggle to sustain livelihood in Kathmandu. I worry about the possibility of becoming a victim of such looting incidents myself. It has impacted me psychologically.

Bishnu Maya Shrestha, Tanahu

Many students, driven by the aspiration to pursue education, venture to Kathmandu. However, the fundamental requisites of sustenance, namely lodging and food, become paramount regardless of the academic pursuit. Sadly, a few of my friends from Far West Nepal had to abandon their education in Kathmandu due to the overwhelming financial strain. The escalating inflation forced them to make the painful decision to interrupt their higher studies, illustrating the gravity of the situation.

This crisis demands urgent attention from the government, particularly concerning the welfare of students. Students represent the future of the nation, and any hindrance to their education results in a loss not only for them but also for society and the entire nation. If this pressing issue remains unaddressed, we risk a widespread exodus of intellectual capital, exacerbating the problem of brain drain on a much larger scale. It’s imperative that immediate measures are taken to alleviate the financial burden on students, ensuring a promising future for both them and the nation.

Bibek Pariyar, Sunsari

As a music student, I’ve recently relocated to Kathmandu, and it’s only been a couple of months. To pursue my passion and sustain myself, I perform gigs during the night. However, a recurring issue is that event organizers occasionally offer compensation in the form of food and beverages, a practice I find unsatisfactory. On a public level, inflation seems to play a central role in managing public affairs through financial means.

Another pressing concern is the alarming rise in incidents of theft and burglary. Returning home late at night from gigs feels increasingly unsafe due to this prevalent issue. Sadly, I’m left with no alternative but to face this risk. I suspect that inflation contributes to the surge in criminal activities, possibly aggravating the situation. Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses economic stability, public safety, and fair compensation for individuals like myself, trying to make a living while pursuing their passions.

The murders that occurred on the night of Sept 15 at Shree Dibya Sawmill in Tinkune, Kathmandu, was an act of revenge that stemmed from a disagreement following a motorcycle collision. 

The Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office of Nepal Police stated that their initial findings showed that 23-year-old Sanjay Bhandari from Barabise Municipality-9 in Sindhupalchok was responsible for the murder of four individuals.

According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Somendra Singh Rathor, Bhandari was involved in a motorcycle accident with one of his victims, Bishal Rai, 19, also known as Nabin, at Chabahil. When Bhandari attempted to communicate with Rai regarding compensation, Rai allegedly assaulted  Bhandari.

Rathor told ApEx that the investigators were yet to confirm when Bhandari and Rai had got into the said accident. Bhandari, who is a mute, admitted to the crime in writing.

On Friday, Bhandari, armed with a khukuri, visited Shree Dibya Sawmill where Rai was employed

Bhandari was there to communicate with Rai about the accident, but Rai allegedly abused him. Bhandari then fatally attacked Rai with the khukuri.

As Bhandari descended to the ground floor, he encountered Shubhadra Bhujel, 76. Fearing she might raise an alarm, he fatally attacked her as well. At that moment, Shubhadra's son, Purna Bahadur Bhujel, 56, also known as Kumar, emerged from his room upon hearing his mother’s scream.

“Kumar had his phone to his ear, and Bhandari suspected he was calling the police, prompting him to attack and kill Kumar too,” SSP Rathor told ApEx. “Using the same weapon, Bhandari also took the life of Ambika Bhujel (52), Kumar’s wife.” 

The Bhujel family hailed from Dolakha, and Kumar was an employee at the mill. After committing multiple murders, Bhandari sought refuge at his sister’s residence in Kandaghari, where he spent the night. 

The next day, Bhandari met his school friends in Naxal as if nothing had happened. But on Sunday, he got wind that the authorities were looking into the case, and decided to flee to Sindhupalchok. 

Police apprehended him before he could leave Kathmandu.

In cold blood

• During interrogation, Sanjay Bhandari referred to a bike accident involving Bishal Rai. The exact date and the place of the accident are unclear
• Subsequently, per the statement given to police, Bhandari tried to talk with Rai about the accident, only to be assaulted   
• Sept 15: Bhandari first murdered Bishal Rai and then Purna Bahadur Bhujel, Ambika Bhujel and Shubhadra Bhujel suspecting that they may have witnessed the crime. Then he went to his sister’s place at Kandaghari and slept 
• Sept 16: Met his school friends at Chabahil 
• Sept 17: Police nabbed Bhandari while he was trying to flee to Sindhupalchok

On Aug 15, a Cabinet meeting decided to revise the detailed project report of the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track Project. No explanation was given. In the updated DPR, the project’s length was reduced from 72.5 km to 70.97 km. 

Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala said as the length of the highway has been shortened, the project cost will come down by Rs 2bn.

But notably, the new DPR has increased the number of tunnels and bridges, which contradicts the minister’s claim of reduced project cost. Initially, there were three tunnels at Mahadevtar (3.355 km), Dhedre (1.63 km), and Lane Danda (1.43 km). The revised DPR includes three additional tunnels at Debichaur (1 km), Sisautar (0.39 km), and Chandram Bhir (2.25 km), bringing the total number of tunnels to six. 

Likewise, the fast track originally also featured 87 bridges, but this number has now increased to 89. 

Tunnels and bridges are expensive to build, and infrastructure development experts say they don’t know where Minister Jwala got the idea that the project will save Rs 2bn by reducing the length of the fast track by a mere two kilometers and adding three more tunnels and two extra bridges. 

Aslo read: Fast track: Destroyer of civilization?

“Besides minor alignment changes, modifying project designs midway through construction is considered less than ideal,” says infrastructure expert Surya Raj Acharya, development and infrastructure policy expert. “Project designs should not be altered without a thorough and well-founded study that acknowledges their significance.”

In 2008, the Asian Development Bank had estimated the project cost at Rs 70bn. A South Korean company that prepared the DPR in 2019 raised the cost estimate to Rs 112bn. When the Nepal Army took over the project again raised the estimated project cost toRs 175bn. 

Once again, the Army and the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport have raised the estimated project cost to Rs 211bn. The project cost could further increase if there are more delays.

The new deadline of the project is April 2027. The project has already undergone four deadline revisions in six years. The latest deadline is likely to be extended again, as the Army has only completed 26.14 percent of the work to date. 

Experts say it is impossible to complete the remaining work (around 75 percent) of the project in the next four years, given the amount of challenges ahead, from securing funds to land acquisition to lengthy contract and bidding process.

The financial progress of the project so far stands at 28.11 percent.

Acharya says that the Nepali Army is not the ideal institution to construct this kind of project. 

“If the fast track project continues to be managed in its current manner, it not only risks missing its next deadline but could potentially become another ‘white elephant’ project akin to the Melamchi Drinking Water Project,” he says.

The Nepal Army officials have often cited budget crunch as a major hindrance to the timely progress of the project. 

The previous governments had not provided enough budget for the expressway. This time, however, the army sources say they are hopeful about securing sufficient budget to make significant progress with the project.

The project contract was handed over to the Army during the previous tenure of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. With Dahal once again in power, the Nepal Army officials are hopeful that the fast track project will get the much-needed attention and priority 

Also read: What’s driving up land prices along the fast track?

“Soon after assuming the office, Prime Minister Dahal conducted an inspection of the project site,” says Brigadier General Krishna Prasad Bhandari, spokesperson of Nepali Army. “We are hopeful that we won’t face a budget crunch under this government.” 

Out of the 13 packages that comprise the project, construction work is currently underway in only seven. The remaining six packages have yet to commence. According to the Army, around 95 percent of the project’s tasks are either in the construction phase or in the midst of the bidding process.

However, data shows the design work and contract process for three tunnels and nearly half of the total bridges has not been completed. Even with the ongoing construction of three tunnels, the overall physical progress stands at just 41.57 percent.

Another major challenge lies in the Khokana area, which is an ancient Newa town renowned for its rich culture and heritage. Residents of Khokana are expressing opposition to the expressway project due to concerns that its construction might result in the loss of their cultural heritage. As of now, the Army has not commenced the land acquisition and bidding processes in this area.

The Army says land acquisition process in Khokana has been halted over a compensation row. But the ground reality is different. The halt has more to do with the cultural significance of the area than land issues.  

The project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) had hinted at the challenges of securing land for the 6 km-stretch of the expressway in Lalitpur. As the area is part of the ancient Newa heritage and a site of various cultural and religious ceremonies, the EIA report had given a heads-up to the project developer. 

As anticipated, there was fierce pushback from the residents of Khokana when the time came to open a track for the expressway. 

Out of the total land requirement of 15,416 ropanis for the project, 10,244 ropanis are government-owned, and the remaining are privately owned. Within the 5,172 ropanis of private land, there are still 406 ropanis awaiting acquisition, and these parcels are situated in the Khokana area.

Major General Kamal Bikram Shah, the project head, says the government,  the National Planning Commision, and other stakeholders are doing their best to resolve the Khokana dispute.

“The Army will start working soon after this issue is settled,” he says.

Also read: Fast track: National pride or another white elephant?

The idea of constructing the Kathmandu-Tarai fast track, an alternate highway connecting the Kathmandu valley with the Tarai region, was originally conceived during the Panchayat era. However, the project remained in the planning and incubation stages for an extended period.

In 1992, two years following the restoration of democracy, the National Planning Commission collaborated with the Danish Development Cooperation to conduct a feasibility study for the fast track. Four years later, in 1996, the government invited expressions of interest from companies. Despite these initial steps, there was little to no progress for over a decade.

It wasn’t until 2008 that the fast track project was revitalized, thanks to the Asian Development Bank which prepared a feasibility report and preliminary design. That same year, the government proposed an alternative to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport in Nijgadh, Bara, further bolstering the prospects and importance of the expressway.

Features of the expressway

• Total length: 70.977 km
• Width: 25 meters in the hills, 27 meters in the plains
• Start point: Khokana
• End point: Nijgadh
• Areas: Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Makawanpur, Bara
• Tunnels: 6 (10.055 km)
• Bridges: 89 (12.885)
• Interchange: 3 (Khokana, Budune, Nijgadh)
• Toll Plaza: 3 (Khokana, Budune, Nijgadh)
• Deadline: April 2027

Progress

• Physical progress: 26.14 percent
• Financial progress: 28.11 percent
• Tunnels: 2,667 meters out of 6,415 meters
• Bridges: 2 out of 89
• Trees felled: 28,646 out of 38,664
• Trees planted: 643,695 out of 709,850

Nepal lost the Asia Cup game against India and Pakistan, but there were many positive takeaways. The exposure, experience and attention that Nepali side got in the tournament was our achievement. 

From losing a game against the Kenyan national team last year to playing against cricket giants and putting up a respectable fight, this team has grown a lot.

Former President of Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) Binay Raj Pandey said that Nepal’s performance is something to be proud of. “It was good to see Nepal play against India, after 20 years the dream has come true. All Nepalis are proud of Nepal’s performance against India and Pakistan," he wrote on Facebook.

Nepali cricket commentator Sachin Timalsena said that the foundation was laid when the Nepali team played against India. He took to X and said, “It takes time, this was the beginning. The foundation is laid, now to add to it. Well done Nepal”'

Nepal’s triumph in the ACC Men’s Premier Cup, 2023, where they competed against 10 teams and ultimately defeated UAE in the final, stands out as a memorable achievement. It also helped Nepal gain its spot at the Asia Cup 2023.

Reflecting on this success, Monty Desai, Nepal’s head coach, told journalists: “I can never forget the day when we clinched the finals and secured our spot in the Asia Cup. It was a very dramatic two days of finals. What excited me most about playing in the Asia Cup was the way we won the final. It was the result of hard work, meticulous planning, flawless execution of roles, and the risks we took.”

However, the journey leading up to the Asia Cup was far from straightforward.

From Division 5 to ODI status in eight years

In 2010, Nepal hosted the ICC World Cricket League Division 5 tournament, which they won, earning them a promotion to Division 4. Two years later, in 2012, Nepal triumphed in the ICC World Cricket League Division 4 tournament, securing a promotion to Division 3. Nepal’s cricket journey continued on an upward trajectory, with another victory in the 2014 ICC World Cricket League Division 3, earning them promotion to Division 2. Unfortunately, due to a drop in performance, Nepal faced relegation back to Division 3 but persevered to return to Division 2.

The turning point came in the 13th match of the ICC World Cricket League Division 2 in 2018. Nepal and Canada battled it out. The stakes were high as both teams aimed to secure a spot in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. Initially, Canada appeared to have the advantage, but a pivotal moment occurred when Nepal’s final batting pair displayed incredible resilience, forging a crucial partnership that carried Nepal to victory. At that moment, optimism soared, marking a potential turning point for Nepal. It’s worth noting that the rise of young cricketers played a significant role in Nepal’s success, ultimately leading to their recognition as an ODI nation, a remarkable achievement.

During this period, the International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended the CAN in April 2016 due to concerns about the dual existence of cricket governing bodies in Nepal and government interference in elections. The ban was lifted in Oct 2019. Meanwhile, Nepali cricketers faced dire financial circumstances, with minimal income. The day after the ICC lifted the CAN ban, longtime skipper Paras Khadka, who had led the team for a decade since 2009 and one of the country’s most successful cricketers, resigned from his captaincy role.

Speaking to journalists, Khadka said: “The team had experienced numerous highs and lows during a period of three years without institutional guardianship.As the CAN has new leadership, a fresh start in Nepali cricket is necessary.”

When did cricket start in Nepal?

Nepal’s national cricket team that took part in their inaugural international competition back in 1996.

Cricket found its way to Nepal through the influence of the Rana aristocracy, who received their education from the British Empire in India. In 1946, the Cricket Association of Nepal was established.

By 1961, the association had become a part of the National Sports Council within the Ministry of Sports, and it embarked on a mission to promote cricket throughout every nook and corner of Nepal. It was in 1988 that Nepal achieved affiliate membership status with the ICC, although cricket was primarily confined to the Kathmandu valley during that period.

Nepal made its debut in international cricket in 1996 when they faced Bangladesh in the ACC Trophy. Since then, they have consistently performed well in the Associate cricket circuit. Notably, they achieved victories over Pakistan and Bangladesh in the 2002 Under-19 World Cup and secured the plate championship in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, defeating formidable opponents like New Zealand and South Africa.

A significant milestone for Nepal came in 2014 when they qualified for the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. During the tournament, they even registered wins against Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Nearly a decade later, their entry into the Asia Cup marked another significant achievement.

While many have played pivotal roles in Nepal cricket, two standout figures are Roy Dias and Pubudu Dassanayake. Dias coached the team for nearly nine years, during which Nepal finished as runners-up in the 2002 ACC Trophy and won the ACC Fast Track Countries Tournament in 2006. 

The former skipper Khadka acknowledges the guidance of Coach Dassanayake. “We knew there were significant opportunities ahead of us, but we didn’t know the exact path to take. Coach Dassanayake came and showed us the way.” Under Dassanayake, Nepal progressed from Division 4 to Division 2, marking an era of remarkable growth in their cricketing journey.

Former Nepali skipper Paras Khadka with his teammates, before the match that gave Nepal ODI status.

Passionate fans

Nepal’s dedicated fans have served as an unwavering support system for their cricket team, accompanying them through all the highs and lows of their journey. The image above vividly illustrates the immense passion that every Nepali cricket fan holds for the game, making it a truly captivating sight.

Pictures of Nepali supporters perched in trees while watching the games showcase the extraordinary lengths to which these fans go to support their team.

Cricket commentator and analyst Aakash Chopra wrote on X : “India must adopt Nepal cricket and make it their responsibility to bring them up to speed with international cricket. Send the A team to Nepal. Involve them in India’s domestic structure. The passion for cricket in Nepal is unparalleled… and they have the potential too.”

Former skipper Khadka once said that Nepali batsmen struggled with pacers as they had never gone with cricket giants and faced bowling with 145+ kmph speed. “But with the unbelievable talent and hard work, we started facing them easily,” he said. “If we get a bit of support from other cricket playing nations then we will see many cricketers shining on the world stage. We just need the best platform for our players,” he said.  

Desai’s vision

Coach Desai has been orchestrating the ‘Happy Dressing Room’ initiative with the aim of fostering unity among the Nepali team. As part of this program, he presents medals within the dressing room to commend the outstanding performance of players following the game.

A similar occurrence took place following the match against India. Desai extended an invitation to the Indian players, inviting them into Nepal’s dressing room to honor the Nepali players who had performed exceptionally well in the match against India.

In a video released by the CAN, Sompal Kami from Nepal can be seen receiving a medal from the Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya. Also, Desai requested Indian batsman Virat Kohli to bestow a medal upon Aasif Sheikh, who had scored a half-century against India. The video also captures Indian coach Rahul Dravid presenting a medal to Dipendra Singh Airee. These gestures definitely motivate the team.

Coach Desai also shares a similar perspective with former skipper Khadka and analyst Chopra. Upon his arrival in Nepal, he advocated for Nepal’s participation in India’s domestic cricket tournaments, particularly the Ranji Trophy. He expressed his intent to encourage the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to support Nepal’s cricket growth. 

Desai says “Just as neighboring countries like Scotland and Ireland are allowed to compete in England, Nepal should also be granted a similar opportunity.” “This step could potentially pave the way for Nepal to attain Test-playing nation status within the next four years.”

“Most of our players are in the age range of 20 to 25. I believe we’ve pinpointed a central nucleus of talent that will contribute to the team’s success over the next four years. There may be a need to fine-tune one or two positions as we progress, but overall, I’m confident that this core group is a valuable asset for the national team and the entire nation,” Desai says.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song has come under fire for making ‘undiplomatic remarks’ regarding the Nepal-India ties. 

Speaking at an event in Kathmandu on Saturday, Chen had made contentious comments regarding economic matters between Nepal and India, terming it as ‘not mutually beneficial’. He also claimed that Nepal can achieve economic prosperity from China rather than India.

Sundarmani Dixit, a civil society leader, has called on the government to promptly seek an explanation from Ambassador Chen and request the Chinese government for his recall.

Speaking at a function on Tuesday, Dixit remarked that the comments made by the Chinese ambassador had the potential to negatively impact Nepal’s long standing relationship with India. 

“The foreign minister should promptly seek clarification from the Chinese ambassador,” he said.

Chen had pointed out that in the last fiscal year, Nepal exported electricity worth Rs 10bn to India, while simultaneously importing electricity worth Rs 19bn from India.

 “How can Nepal achieve self-sufficiency in the sector it takes pride in under such circumstances,” the Chinese envoy remarked at the program, which was also attended by Speaker Devraj Ghimire and CPN-UML leader Aanandaraj Pokharel.

Chen went on to highlight that in the first month of the current fiscal year alone, Nepal had imported agricultural products worth Rs 7bn from India. “In this ratio, Nepal imports agricultural products worth Rs 100bn from India in a year,” he said, underscoring Nepal’s heavy reliance on India for agricultural products.

Vijay Kant Karna, a former Nepali ambassador to India, expressed his concern, labeling Chen’s comments as highly undiplomatic and unprecedented.

“This is the first time in Nepal that an ambassador of any country has given such an undiplomatic comment,” he said. “China had previously commented on the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the US and now is making remarks about India.”  

Karna said Nepal was capable of establishing relationships with other countries and it didn't need any suggestions from other countries on how to conduct its foreign affairs.

“The Chinese ambassador should have spoken about China being reluctant to open its border for trade with Nepal and the stalled BRI projects,” said Karna. 

Meanwhile, the International Relations Committee of Parliament has summoned Foreign Minister NP Saud to address various diplomatic matters, including the controversial remarks made by the Chinese ambassador.

Committee chair Raj Kishor Yadav said the meeting’s agenda will also encompass a discussion on establishing a code of conduct for foreign diplomats in Nepal. 

“The meeting will explore strategies to ensure that ambassadors adhere to diplomatic code of conduct,” he said.

Former ambassador Dinesh Bhattarai said the Chinese ambassador should not have gone to that extent in his speech. “It’s not his responsibility to teach us the kind of economic and political system we follow,” he said. 

Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sewa Lamsal said the ministry was unaware of the remarks made by the Chinese ambassador.

The Olive Garden located at Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu had to close down due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, they recently reopened on Aug 20. Intrigued by this, we decided to visit it for some authentic Italian cuisine.

When it comes to Italian food, the usual suspects like pizza, cheese, and pasta come to mind, and we had similar expectations. But to our surprise, there was no pizza on the menu. Nevertheless, the menu had much more than we anticipated.

The restaurant offers two choices of candlelit ‘Table d’hôte’ dinners. This term translates to ‘table of the host’ and refers to a fixed meal offered by the restaurant that can’t be customized much.

Both options are priced at Rs 4,500 net and include a starter, soup, pasta, main course, and dessert. There are both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. Additionally, there’s a pricier option at Rs 11,000 net that includes a bottle of premium wine.

We decided to go with the non-vegetarian option with wine. While we waited for our dishes, the executive chef Gyanesh Dass, who has over two decades of experience in Italian cuisine, along with the other staff members, took the time to explain how they meticulously crafted the menu. They reassured us that the flavors were adapted to suit the Nepali palate. The attentive hospitality was evident from the start, not just for us but for every customer.

For starters, we had Garlic Prawns. These prawns were cooked with garlic, complemented by tomato confit, and served with a salad of fresh herbs. Creamy yet slightly crunchy, they offered a delightful burst of flavors. Next, we tried the Zuppa Di Pesce, a rustic tomato stew brimming with squid, shrimp, and fish. Served with toasted bread, the soup had a robust texture and a subtly sweet and distinct flavor, as the executive chef had promised.

Moving on to the pasta course, we savored the Spaghetti Bolognese. Topped with cheese, this dish featured a chicken mince sauce with a pleasant tang from the tomatoes. It was a heavy course leaving us concerned about how we would manage the upcoming main course. Surprisingly, the main course turned out to be light and uncomplicated. The Chicken Oreganata, a chicken thigh marinated in herbs and grilled, was served with a green pea ragout and honey-glazed carrots. It paired seamlessly with sips of wine.

As we waited for dessert, we found that the entire dining experience, including the background music, cozy seating, and the gentle flicker of candlelight, added an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal. The dessert, Classic Tiramisu, was sweet, but a hint of lemon refreshed our palate after the array of flavors we had experienced.

For those planning to visit, we suggest arriving a little starved to fully appreciate the culinary delights this place has to offer.

Their specials

Spaghetti Bolognese

Fresh Wild Mushroom Risotto

Classic Tiramisu

Location: Lazimpat

Meal for two: Rs 4,500

Opening hours: 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm

Contact: 9851048331/01-4511818

Online payment: Accepted

Parking: Available

The judiciary and legislative are once again at loggerheads over the constituency development fund. A day after the Supreme Court prohibited the utilization of government-allocated funds for constituency development, lawmakers on Thursday criticized the judiciary for overstepping its jurisdiction.

On Wednesday, the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court issued an interim order halting the implementation of the budget assigned for the Constituency Development Funds in the fiscal year 2023/24. The court cited the principles of the separation of powers, the responsibilities of managerial tasks, the roles of legislators, the obligations of the planning commission and associated ministries, the notion of planned development, conflicts of interest, good governance, and accountability behind its order.

Shyam Kumar Ghimire, a lawmaker from the Nepali Congress, voiced his disapproval of the interim order, accusing the Supreme Court of overstepping its authority and infringing upon the affairs of the legislative. During Thursday’s session of the House of Representatives, he contended that the order had impinged upon the constitution’s principle of maintaining a clear separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Surya Thapa, a lawmaker from the opposition CPN-UML, asserted that the exclusive authority to create and allocate budget lies solely with the parliament. He emphasized that the prerogative to make decisions regarding the budget resides exclusively within the parliamentary chambers.

Constitutional expert Bhimarjun Acharya says that the constitution has not solely established the separation of powers, but has also implemented check and balance. “I think the apex court has used the power of check and balance and reviewed it as there were complaints about misuse of constituency development funds.”
He also points out that the court has only issued an interim order. “If the fund is not misused, the court might review its decision again,” he adds.

The government had allocated Rs 50m to each of the 165 constituencies under the ‘Parliamentary Infrastructure Development Program’.