Ex-Nepali PM Jhalanath Khanal's wife dies in fire set by protesters

Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former Nepalese Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, tragically died on Tuesday after protesters set fire to their residence in Kathmandu’s Dallu area. According to family sources, she was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital but succumbed to her injuries during treatment.

The incident occurred amid a wave of violent demonstrations led by Gen Z activists, triggered by a short-lived government ban on social media platforms including Facebook, X, and YouTube. Although the ban was lifted Monday night, protests escalated into broader outrage over alleged corruption and privilege among Nepal’s political elite.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned Tuesday after his own home was torched. Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, 65, was attacked in the streets, with disturbing footage showing him being chased and beaten by protesters.

Security forces opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in at least 19 deaths. The capital’s airport was shut down, and army helicopters were deployed to evacuate key government officials. Protesters also set fire to the parliament building and several homes of top leaders.

The movement, dubbed the “Gen Z Revolt,” reflects growing frustration among Nepal’s youth over economic hardship and perceived nepotism. Many have voiced anger at the lavish lifestyles of political leaders’ children — often referred to as “Nepo Kids” — while ordinary citizens struggle to find employment.

As Nepal faces one of its most volatile political moments in recent history, the youth-led uprising signals a demand for transparency, accountability, and systemic change.