Nepal has entered one of its most eventful and consequential weeks in recent memory. From fiery political showdowns and economic revelations to unprecedented social developments and global tensions, the country finds itself at a critical crossroads. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s unfolding.
🏛️ Political Turmoil: Visa Scandal Halts Parliament, Calls for Minister’s Resignation Escalate
A storm of controversy has erupted over an alleged human trafficking ring operated through “visit visas” at Tribhuvan International Airport. At the center of the storm is Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, with opposition parties—Maoist Center, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP)—demanding his immediate resignation on moral grounds.
The Nepali Congress, however, continues to defend Lekhak, arguing that an individual employee’s misconduct does not warrant a minister’s dismissal. The standoff has paralyzed the House of Representatives, stalling key legislative actions including crucial budget discussions.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Raghujee Pant is pushing for the passage of the new School Education Act. After multiple consultations with the Teachers’ Federation, 27 points have been amended, though disagreements persist over issues like the status of Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers. The act confirms that the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) will remain in place.
👑 Royalist Protests Turn Violent, Former King Fined for Vandalism
Royalist supporters took to the streets demanding the return of the monarchy, but the protests turned violent—resulting in property destruction, a journalist’s death, and arson. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City slapped former King Gyanendra Shah with a Rs. 793,000 fine for damages, including littering and destruction of public property. The Maoist Center has accused the former monarch of orchestrating the violence.
📉 Economic Snapshot: NEPSE Dips, Informal Economy Raises Alarms
The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index declined by 11.06 points, closing at 2,629.89, despite a daily turnover of over Rs. 9 billion. Meanwhile, a report by Ernst & Young placed Nepal’s informal economy at 51% of GDP—making it the third-largest shadow economy globally, after Sierra Leone and Niger. While this represents a 9% reduction over two decades, it remains a serious concern for tax collection and fiscal planning.
On the brighter side, tourism is rebounding strongly post-COVID, with projections suggesting that 2025 could surpass 2019’s record numbers. Events like the Madhesh Tourism Meet aim to enhance regional tourism promotion.
⚡ Power Deals & Infrastructure: Nepal Prepares to Export Electricity to Bangladesh
In a landmark energy move, Nepal is set to export 40 megawatts of electricity to Bangladesh starting June 15, using India’s transmission infrastructure. This regional energy collaboration marks a major diplomatic and economic milestone.
In infrastructure, the main structure of the Gwarko Flyover has been completed. Additionally, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inspected the Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground, with plans to finish construction by mid-July.
📱 Telecom Scandal & Digital Dreams: Progress Stalled by Corruption
A major corruption scandal involving Nepal Telecom’s current and former directors has rocked the state-owned enterprise. Authorities allege Rs. 330.8 million in irregularities related to its billing system. The government is also planning to sell 30% of its shares to the general public.
Meanwhile, the much-hyped Digital Nepal Framework 2.0 faces backlash for being strong on paper but weak in execution, with young entrepreneurs citing a lack of access to funding and systemic bureaucracy.
🌧️ Social Pulse: Disasters, Health Milestones & Viral Stories
Natural disasters continue to disrupt lives:
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18 people were injured by lightning strikes across several districts
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Humla is facing a severe drinking water shortage due to dried-up rivers
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Extreme heat has forced Birgunj schools to shut for six additional days
On June 14, marking International Blood Donor Day, a massive blood donation drive in Chitwan saw 1,717 pints collected, exceeding the original target of 1,500.
In a groundbreaking medical moment, Nepal’s first gender-affirming surgery was successfully performed at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.
Tragedy struck in other areas:
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19 people injured in a microbus accident near Nagdhunga
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4 killed in a jeep crash in Baglung
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A couple electrocuted while fishing in Morang
A viral video of a Nepali youth stranded in Dubai has reached Parliament, prompting demands for government intervention and rescue.
🏅 Sports: Volleyball Glory, New Records & Youth Triumphs
In sports, Nepal saw a week of victories:
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APF Club triumphed in the Prachanda Cup Women’s Volleyball Tournament, with Niruta Thagunna named MVP
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Prajna Maharjan and Anshu Khanal won gold in table tennis
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Chitwan inaugurated its first archery center
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Four new national swimming records were set at the Second Nepal Aquatic Championship
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In U-14 School Games, Aditya Yadav and Gauri Kumari Saud won gold in the 100m race
🌍 Global Spotlight: Israel-Iran Clash and Nepali Deportees from USA
Tensions are rising globally as Iran accuses Israel of attacking two gas fields in Bushehr province. Iran has warned the U.S., U.K., and France not to intervene. Retaliatory actions by Iran have resulted in casualties, including at least three deaths.
Nepal’s government has urged both nations to exercise restraint.
In other news, 45 undocumented Nepali citizens were deported from the United States via a special charter flight this week.
🤝 International Business: Nepal & Cambodia Sign Trade Agreement
In Geneva, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Cambodian Federation of Employers and Business Associations (CAMFEBA) signed a strategic partnership to bolster bilateral trade and investment.
✅ Conclusion: A Pivotal Week That Will Shape Nepal’s Road Ahead
From political turmoil and economic revelations to social resilience and international diplomacy, this week has encapsulated the immense complexity and potential of Nepal’s national journey. The decisions and responses made in the coming days will likely echo far beyond June 2025.
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