Domestic violence is on the rise. Nepal sees 528 spousal deaths in six years
Summary
Nepal has witnessed 528 spousal deaths over six years, with increasing domestic violence attributed to relationship instability, societal changes, and weak legal enforcement. Women’s rights activists highlight patriarchal structures as a major contributor to ongoing violence and victim-blaming culture.
Key Points
- 528 women have been killed by their spouses in Nepal between fiscal years 2020–21 and 2025–26.
- Koshi province recorded the highest number of spousal killings with 132 cases, followed by Lumbini and Madhesh.
- Experts cite factors such as extramarital affairs, psychological stress, changing family structures, and societal empathy decline leading to domestic violence.
- Women’s rights activists emphasize patriarchal societal norms, weak legal enforcement, and victim-blaming as barriers to addressing domestic violence effectively.
