Former Nepalese Prime Minister’s wife dies after protesters set home ablaze

‎Rabi Laxmi Chitrakar, spouse of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, lost her life after demonstrators set fire to their home in Kathmandu’s Dallu district on Tuesday.
‎
‎Eyewitnesses reported that protesters locked Chitrakar inside the house before igniting the flames. She was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital in critical condition but tragically passed away during treatment.
‎
‎Her death coincides with the second day of intense, youth-driven unrest across Nepal, which began despite the recent lifting of a social media ban earlier this week. Protesters demand the resignation of government officials, accusing them of corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation.
‎
‎Since the turmoil started on Monday, at least 22 people have died and over 300 others sustained injuries. Amnesty International has condemned Nepalese police for allegedly firing live rounds at civilians.
‎
‎Online footage reveals petrol bombs being thrown at residences of prominent leaders, including former Prime Ministers K.P. Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, chairman of the Maoist Centre. Key government buildings such as Singha Durbar, the central administrative complex, and Sheetal Niwas, the presidential residence, were also attacked.
‎
‎In light of the escalating disorder, 73-year-old Prime Minister Oli resigned on Tuesday, citing the need to pursue “further steps towards a political solution and resolution of the problems”.
‎
‎The protests, largely propelled by young people, have expanded beyond Kathmandu to other cities. Several ministers responsible for water, agriculture, and home affairs also stepped down in protest against the government’s crisis management.
‎
‎Authorities continue efforts to regain control as both national and international voices urge for restraint and dialogue to restore peace.
‎