Seven years have passed since the tragic rape and murder of 13-year-old Nirmala Pant in Bhimdatta Municipality-2, Ultakhama, yet the real culprit remains unidentified. The case, which shocked the entire nation, continues to be a mystery despite multiple investigations and widespread protests demanding justice.
The Incident That Shook Nepal
On July 25, 2018 (Saun 10, 2075 BS), Nirmala went to her friend’s house to do homework but never returned home. The next day, her body was discovered in a sugarcane field near her residence. The heinous crime triggered nationwide outrage, leading to massive protests demanding the arrest and punishment of the perpetrator.
Investigations and Committees Formed
Following public pressure, the government formed a high-level investigation committee, while the National Human Rights Commission and the police established separate committees to probe the case. This incident consumed the most resources and manpower in Nepal Police history for a single case, yet the investigation has yielded no conclusive results.
What the Police Say Today
According to District Police Office spokesperson Sagar Bohara, the case remains a top priority.
“So far, DNA tests of 124 individuals have been conducted, and 655 people have been interrogated,” Bohara stated. “Ten investigation teams from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have worked on this case, and the investigation is still ongoing.”
Controversial Arrest and Protests
A month after the incident, on August 20, 2018 (Bhadra 4, 2075 BS), the police presented Dilip Singh Bista, a resident of Bhimdatta-19, Bagphata, as the prime suspect. However, it was later revealed that Bista was mentally ill and had likely been framed. This revelation sparked even more intense protests across the country.
Eventually, Bista was released by the Office of the Government Attorney, further fueling public anger and mistrust in the investigation process.
Seven Years Later – Still No Justice
Despite years of investigation, the formation of multiple committees, and massive public pressure, the perpetrator of this brutal crime has not been identified. Nirmala Pant’s family and human rights activists continue to demand justice, while questions remain about the handling of the case and the accountability of law enforcement agencies.
