Mosque vandalism sparks protests in Birgunj

The Muslim community has been protesting in Birgunj since Sunday morning following the vandalism of a mosque in Dhanusha.

A group of unidentified persons vandalized a mosque at a Muslim Tole in Sakhuwa Maran, Dhanukamala Municipality-6, Dhanusha, and burned a copy of the Quran, according to an information circulated on social media.

The demonstrators have burned tires on the streets and shouted slogans in various places including Ghantaghar in Birgunj and Murali among others.

Meanwhile, a minor clash broke out between protesters and police at Idgah Chowk in Chhapakaiya.

Pollice also fired five rounds of tear gas shells to control the situation.

A police man sustained minor injuries in the incident.

The protesters have demanded immediate arrest and action against those who entered and vandalized mosques, the holiest places for Muslims, and burned the religious book, Quran.

 

 

 

Pathibhara sees snow for second time this winter

The Pathibhara area has received snowfall for the second time this winter. 

The area had received snowfall for the first time this season on December 6.

Snowfall occurred in the Pathibhara area on Saturday evening. As a result, cold has increased, said Rajendra Mahat, an employee of the Pathibhara Area Development Committee.

Fiber roof has been installed on the trekking route for the convenience of pilgrims visiting the famous religious shrine. 

This has made it easier for pilgrims to reach Pathibhara Dham even in rain and snowfall.

In the past, Pathibhara, located at an altitude of 3,794 meters above sea level, used to receive snowfall starting mid-November. 

However, the pattern of snowfall has changed due to the impact of climate change.

 

Somnath Ghimire to enter race for New York State Assembly seat

Somnath Ghimire, a longtime Woodside resident and community leader, will formally announce his candidacy for the New York State Assembly in District 30 at a public event on 01/11/2026 at 6:30 pm at Gulshan Terrace.

"At its best, Queens is a place where every family belongs and has a voice," said Ghimire. "I'm stepping forward because District 30 deserves leadership that understands our communities and is committed to delivering real, smart practical solutions that work for everyone."

At the announcement event, Ghimire will outline his vision for a stronger and fairer Queens. His stated priorities include affordable housing, strong public schools, worker protections, and inclusive representation for all residents of Assembly District 30.

"I believe public service means listening, showing up, and fighting for the people we represent," Ghimire added. "Together, we can build a Queens where every family has the opportunity to thrive."

Further details are expected to be released following the announcement event.

Ghimire has lived in Woodside since 1996 and has spent more than two decades serving the Nepali American and South Asian community, advocating for workers, immigrants, and working families throughout Queens. His background includes serving as a 2020 Census Field Supervisor, helping ensure underrepresented communities were fully counted, and participating in human rights missions to 22 countries through the International Institute for Human Rights, Environment and Development (INHURED International).

Fog and mist to persist in Tarai today

Most places in the Tarai region will experience fog and mist today.

Furthermore, partial cloudiness will occur in the hilly and Himalayan regions of Koshi Province, as well as the high hills and mountain regions of Bagmati, Gandaki, and Karnali Provinces. The weather will be mainly fair in the remaining areas.

According to the 8 am bulletin published by the Meteorological Forecasting Division, there is a possibility of light rain and snowfall in one or two places of the high hills and mountain regions of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Karnali Provinces.

Later tonight, fog will continue to persist in many places of the Tarai region.

Partial cloudiness will occur in the hilly and Himalayan regions of Koshi Province, as well as in the areas of Gandaki and Karnali Provinces. The weather will be mainly fair in the remaining areas.

There is also a possibility of light rain and snowfall in one or two places of the high hills and mountain regions of Koshi and Karnali Provinces.

The meteorological analysis by the Division also states that there is an influence of westerly winds across the country.