Kathmandu— Members of Nepal’s National Assembly voiced outrage and demanded accountability following the death of three-year-old Garima Chaudhary, who was murdered after being raped in Jitpur Simara. During a session of the upper house of Federal Parliament on Monday, lawmakers called for increased protection for children and women, urging both the government and security forces to prioritize such cases and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

Calls for Action on Violence Against Women and Children

Several National Assembly members emphasized the need to control violence against women and children and guarantee their safety. Puja Chaudhary specifically requested that the government take steps to prevent further incidents and prosecute those involved in Garima’s rape and murder. Renu Chand criticized what she perceived as a lack of seriousness from security bodies regarding the initial disappearance of the child, demanding stern action against the perpetrators.

Other Issues Raised During Parliamentary Session

Beyond the case of Garima Chaudhary, lawmakers raised a variety of concerns during the zero hour session. Manrupa Sharma requested government assistance in repatriating the body of Narayan Sarki, a Nepali worker who died in Dubai, and providing compensation to his family. Rukmini Koirala suggested initiatives to ensure fair prices for agricultural products, enhance women’s security, and create employment opportunities for young people.

Disaster Relief and Protest Concerns

Krishna Bahadur Rokaya highlighted the damage caused by recent floods and landslides in Rolpa and Bajura districts, urging the government to provide relief to affected families. Ghana Shyam Rijal drew attention to a protest led by Dipa Nepali, advocating for dialogue to resolve underlying issues. Padam Bahadur Pariyar called for full implementation of an agreement related to the death of Ganesh Nepali, who died after attempting self-immolation at the Department of Passport, and requested that he be declared a martyr.

Budgetary Concerns and Landslide Victims

Bishnu Kumari Sapkota reiterated demands for relief for families displaced by landslides in Thabang, Rolpa, alongside calls for justice in Garima Chaudhary’s case. Bishnu Bahadur Bishwokarma expressed dissatisfaction with the number of staff assigned to ministers' personal secretariats and proposed a reduction.

The National Assembly is expected to continue addressing these issues in upcoming sessions, with lawmakers urging swift action from both the government and relevant authorities.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.