Kathmandu/IBNS: Former Nepal Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal's wife Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar died of her injuries after she was burnt alive at her house which was set on fire as the Gen-Z protests against social media ban and corruption turned violent on Tuesday, media reports said.

The incident took place at Khanal's house in the Dallu area of Kathmandu, the capital city.

Chitrakar was rushed to the Kirtipur Burn Hospital where he died while being treated, family sources said as reported by NDTV.

Nepal President Ram Chandra Poudel and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday after two days of violent anti-corruption protests led by Gen Z demonstrators left 19 people dead and over 400 injured.

The announcement came after protesters vandalised several vital offices including the Parliament building, residences of leaders and protests spread across other cities, continuing demonstrations that began after Monday’s crackdown on the Gen Z protests, according to The Kathmandu Post.

Videos circulating on social media showed protesters roaming inside the President’s residence, smashing property, and chanting slogans. Police tried to push back crowds but appeared to be avoiding heavy force after Monday’s casualties triggered nationwide outrage.

A curfew has been imposed in parts of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur districts. The Kathmandu District Administration Office announced restrictions inside the Ring Road from 8:30 am until further notice, covering major intersections including Koteshwar, Chabahil, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Balaju and Kalanki. Authorities in Lalitpur and Bhaktapur issued similar prohibitory orders, banning gatherings, rallies, and processions under Section 6(3) of the Local Administration Act, 1971.

Photo: ChatGPT recreation

Despite restrictions, protesters defied curfew orders on Tuesday, gathering near the Federal Parliament building in New Baneshwar. “Yesterday’s incident exposed the government’s failure. I came here to stand with the youths,” one participant told local media.

The unrest marks one of the most serious political challenges to Oli’s administration in recent years. Analysts warn the Oli government could be pushed to the brink if protests continue to escalate and security forces fail to contain the anger on the streets.