Ravi Laxmi Chitrakar, wife of former Nepal prime minister Jhalanath Khanal, has been flown to India for advanced medical treatment after sustaining serious burn injuries during violent protests in Kathmandu. The incident highlights the dangers posed by escalating unrest in Nepal and has drawn attention to the challenges faced by victims of protest-related violence.
BACKGROUND: INCIDENT DURING ‘GEN Z’ PROTESTS
The injuries occurred on September 9, when a mob set fire to Khanal’s residence in the Dallu area of Kathmandu amid the ‘Gen Z’ protests. The demonstrations, which turned violent, resulted in severe damage to property and injuries to several individuals, including Chitrakar. Authorities have been investigating the causes and repercussions of the unrest in the capital.
EXTENT OF INJURIES AND INITIAL TREATMENT IN NEPAL
Chitrakar was initially admitted to the Burn Hospital in Kirtipur, where she underwent emergency care for her injuries. Reports confirm that she suffered burns to approximately 15 percent of her body during the incident. Medical staff at the hospital provided immediate intervention to stabilize her condition before further decisions about her treatment were made.
COMPLICATIONS FROM BURNS AND IMPACT ON HEALTH
Her injuries included extensive damage to her left hand and respiratory complications resulting from smoke inhalation. According to her family, “Her left hand was totally damaged and she developed chest infection as her lungs were affected by smoke, her family said.” These complications prompted medical professionals to seek specialised care outside of Nepal.
On the advice of doctors overseeing her recovery, Chitrakar was transported to New Delhi for further treatment. The decision was based on the severity of her injuries and the need for advanced medical intervention that was not readily available in the country. The family and medical team coordinated her transfer to ensure she received the necessary care as quickly as possible.
The Burn Hospital in Kirtipur played a crucial role in stabilising Chitrakar after the incident. Doctors there managed her initial treatment, addressing the immediate dangers posed by her burns and respiratory issues. The support of her family and the recommendations of her medical team were instrumental in arranging her transfer abroad for continued treatment.
PROFILE OF JHALANATH KHANAL
Jhalanath Khanal, Chitrakar’s husband, served as the prime minister of Nepal from February to August 2011. Khanal is a prominent political leader who has played a significant role in Nepal’s recent history. His family’s experience during the protests has drawn public attention to the risks faced by high-profile figures and their relatives during episodes of civil unrest.
BROADER IMPLICATIONS OF PROTEST-RELATED VIOLENCE
The incident at Khanal’s residence is one of several violent episodes linked to the recent wave of protests in Nepal. It has raised concerns among citizens and authorities regarding the safety of individuals during demonstrations and the need for adequate emergency response services. The transfer of Chitrakar to India underscores limitations in local healthcare infrastructure when dealing with complex injuries arising from such events.
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