VOIWORLD/Kathmandu
Nepal’s wave of violent anti-government protests has taken a grim turn with the death of Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal. According to reports, Chitrakar died after protesters set fire to the couple’s residence in Dallu, Kathmandu, on Tuesday.
Local outlet Khabarhub reported that demonstrators allegedly trapped Chitrakar inside the house before setting it ablaze. She was later pulled out of the flames in critical condition and rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital. Despite efforts by doctors, she succumbed to her injuries, family sources confirmed. However, there has been no official government confirmation regarding the cause of her death.
Chitrakar’s death adds to the growing list of casualties from the youth-led “Gen Z protests” that have shaken Nepal over the past week. The demonstrations spiraled into violence after security forces opened fire on protesters Monday, killing at least 19 people and leaving over 500 injured.
Widespread Arson and Attacks on Key Institutions
The unrest has seen protesters target major state institutions and political leaders. On Tuesday, demonstrators set fire to the Parliament building and the President’s Office, according to The Himalayan Times.
Vandalism and arson were also reported at Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, the Special Court, several district courts, the Attorney General’s Office, and multiple land revenue offices. Residences of senior leaders came under attack as well.
Hours before Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli tendered his resignation, protesters torched his private home in Balkot. Other properties targeted included those belonging to President Ramchandra Paudel, former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal, former PM Sher Bahadur Deuba, former home minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung.
Meanwhile, The Kathmandu Post reported attacks on the homes of Deputy PM and Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel, Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Biswo Paudel, and other political figures. Protesters reportedly broke windows, hurled stones, and set fire to buildings as anger over corruption and state violence boiled over.
Escalating Crisis
The protests, initially triggered by corruption allegations, intensified after the deadly crackdown on demonstrators. With public anger surging, the violence has spread across Kathmandu and other parts of the country.
In a major security measure, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has been completely shut down. The Nepali Army has been deployed to secure the facility and prevent further escalation.
The death of Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar—spouse of one of Nepal’s senior political leaders—has become yet another flashpoint in the crisis, underscoring the scale of public fury that has engulfed the nation.
