Children in Madhesh are falling victim to abduction, sexual violence and killings
Summary
Children in Madhesh Province are facing rising risks of abduction, sexual violence and murder, with recent cases in Dhanusha, Saptari and Bara exposing serious gaps in child safety. Officials and rights activists are calling for stronger family vigilance, local protection mechanisms and tougher legal action.
Key Points
- A 15-month-old boy was abducted in Dhanusha and later rescued near the Nepal-India border after police launched a large search operation.
- A two-year-old girl in Saptari and a three-year-old girl in Bara were killed in separate cases that triggered outrage, protests and criticism of police response.
- The government reached a three-point agreement with the child victim’s parents, including a review of legal provisions on serious crimes.
- Rights activists and provincial officials say stronger parental awareness, local child-protection systems and coordinated government action are needed to curb violence against children.