EX-Nepal PM’s wife killed as protesters set politicians’ homes ablaze

Rabi Laxmi Chitrakar, the wife of former Nepalese Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, has died after protesters set their home ablaze in Kathmandu.

The attack occurred in the Dallu area of the capital on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, as demonstrators trapped Chitrakar inside before setting the house on fire.

The former prime minister’s wife was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to her injuries.

Her death comes as youth-led protests sweep across Nepal for a second day, despite the government’s decision to lift a controversial ban on social media.

Protesters are demanding the resignation of key government officials over corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation.

Nepal prime minister resigns after 19 die in protests

Authorities said at least 22 people have been killed and more than 300 injured since the unrest began on Monday. Amnesty International has accused Nepalese security forces of using live ammunition against demonstrators.

Videos circulating online show petrol bombs being hurled at the homes of top political figures, including former prime ministers K.P. Sharma Oli and Sher Bahadur Deuba, as well as Maoist Centre leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Major government projects – including Singh Durbar, the central administrative complex, and Sheetal Niwas, the presidential residence – were also targeted.

In the wake of the escalating violence, Oli, 73, announced his resignation in a letter to the president on Tuesday, saying the move was intended to “take further steps towards a political solution and resolution of the problems.”

Several ministers, including those responsible for water supply, agriculture, and home affairs, have also resigned in protest over the government’s handling of the crisis.

The Star