Nepal’s former First Lady has passed away following an incident where demonstrators set fire to her residence. Outrage erupted in Nepal after the government’s recent decision to block 26 social media platforms, including popular sites like Facebook and YouTube. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the former first lady and spouse of ex-Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, lost her life in the blaze at her home.
Family members reported that Mrs. Chitrakar was swiftly transported to Kirtipur Burn Hospital for urgent medical care but succumbed to her injuries. Authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire.
In a recent development, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned from his position after calling for a cross-party meeting to address the ongoing protests across the nation. Demonstrators have continued their activities, with thousands still on the streets, blocking roads, storming government structures, and engaging in violent acts, including targeting political figures. The president has accepted Oli’s resignation and appointed him to lead an interim government until a new administration is established.
Despite the Prime Minister’s resignation, the protests show no signs of abating. Clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in at least 19 fatalities and numerous injuries in recent days. The government has employed various tactics, including water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets, to control the unrest.
The initial trigger for the protests was the social media ban, which has since been revoked. However, the demonstrations now reflect broader dissatisfaction with the country’s leadership. Demonstrators have even breached Nepal’s parliament building in Kathmandu, with visuals showing smoke rising from the structure as protesters chant and wave flags.
In a concerning incident, a 22-year-old university student was brought to Kathmandu’s Bir Hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound from a live copper bullet during the protests, allegedly fired by the police. President Ram Chandra Poudel has urged protesters to engage in dialogue for a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation.
The army has also called for calm and political discussions. Videos circulating on social media depicted protesters assaulting Nepali Congress party leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and his spouse, the current foreign minister, in an apparent act of violence. The Nepali Congress party, a key coalition member, has faced significant unrest.
Protesters at the scene expressed their demands for justice and a change in leadership amidst the ongoing turmoil. The situation remains tense as calls for change persist in Nepal.