Kathmandu: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has assured that the government will take stern action against those responsible for the tragic death of a 17-year-old girl in Nawarajpur Rural Municipality, Siraha.

Speaking at a National Assembly (NA) session today, Minister Lekhak stated that all individuals involved in the incident will be identified and prosecuted. The victim, Rinku Kumari Sada, allegedly took her own life after being gang-raped by three locals. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and her family.

Providing details, he informed the House that the girl was found hanging in her house on February 12, and an FIR was initially registered against a 19-year-old male for abetting the incident. Later, on February 20, the victim’s mother filed an FIR against eight individuals, alleging gang rape and murder, while also accusing the village council of attempting to settle the case internally.

Regarding the inter-caste marriage of Neha Rauniyar and Satyendra Ram, Minister Lekhak dismissed claims of state intervention, emphasizing that the government upholds citizens’ fundamental rights against untouchability and discrimination as guaranteed by the Constitution. He condemned attempts to misrepresent his position, stressing that such allegations undermine his values and ideologies.

To further address caste-based discrimination, the government has already established a Dalit desk at the Nepal Police Headquarters, with plans to expand it to all 77 districts.

Minister Lekhak also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating usury, stating that complaints registered at district police offices are under active investigation, ensuring justice for victims. He disclosed that 5,200 complaints have already been resolved by the commission formed to handle these cases.

Addressing concerns about trans-border smuggling, he announced a zero-tolerance policy and revealed that an investigative committee has been formed under Kaski’s Chief District Officer to probe the explosion of balloons during the inauguration of Pokhara Visit Year 2025.

Emphasizing the government’s seriousness in addressing violence against women (VAW), Minister Lekhak assured that necessary measures are being taken to ensure justice for victims.