Three die after self-immolation attempts in Nepal within a week

Nepal has seen three deaths from self-immolation attempts in less than a week, highlighting a disturbing trend. The most recent victim, 42-year-old Bivek Mandal, died Tuesday at the Nepal Cleft and Burn Centre in Kirtipur. He had been airlifted to Kathmandu on Friday after pouring petrol on himself and setting himself alight.

Rastriya Swatantra Party lawmaker Amresh Kumar Singh expressed deep sorrow over Mandal's death, stating that all possible efforts were made to save him. "Despite our tireless efforts, he has passed away," Singh said, pledging lifelong support to Mandal's family.

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Every possible effort was made by me personally, the government and the doctors to save Bibek Mandal. Despite our tireless efforts, he has passed away. I offer my heartfelt tribute to his tragic and untimely demise and extend my deepest condolences to his bereaved family.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Mandal's act. His death followed two other similar incidents in Kathmandu. Ganesh Nepali, a 25-year-old ride-hailing driver, died Friday after setting himself on fire outside the Department of Passports. His family accused municipal police of provoking the incident, leading to a nine-point agreement with the government for an investigation and compensation.

Another victim, 45-year-old Ashwin Raut, also died during treatment at Bir Hospital after setting himself on fire at his home in Buddhanagar. Raut, owner of two industrial companies, suffered burns to about 50 percent of his body. His brother stated Ashwin had recently undergone spinal surgery.

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I also pledge to provide whatever support I can to Bibek’s family throughout my life.