The self-immolation death of a young ride-share driver in Kathmandu has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed scrutiny of Nepal’s worsening mental health crisis, with more than 35,000 suicides recorded over the past five years.
Ganesh Nepali, 25, originally from Soru Rural Municipality-1 in Mugu district and living in Bhaktapur, died Friday while undergoing treatment at Bir Hospital’s burn unit. He had sustained burns to more than 55% of his body after setting himself on fire Thursday in Tripureshwor, outside the Department of Passports.
Police said the incident followed a dispute after Kathmandu Metropolitan City officers placed a wheel lock on his parked motorcycle and initiated a fine of 1,000 Nepali rupees (about $7.50). During the confrontation, Nepali poured petrol on himself and attempted self-immolation.
Though rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries a day later.
The incident has drawn widespread attention not only as an individual tragedy but also as a reflection of systemic failures, including harsh administrative practices, economic hardship, and a growing mental health crisis.
Rising suicide rates
Nepal has seen a steady rise in suicide cases in recent years, with experts describing the trend as a “silent epidemic.”
According to Nepal Police data, 6,830 suicides were recorded in the fiscal year 2021–22, rising to 6,908 in 2022–23. The number continued to increase, reaching 7,055 in 2023–24 and 7,120 in 2024–25.
In a country of 29.6 million people, more than 7,250 cases have already been reported in the current fiscal year. Altogether, more than 35,000 people have died by suicide in Nepal over the past five years, underscoring a steadily worsening trend.
Mental health professionals say such incidents are rarely triggered by a single event.
“Suicide is usually the result of accumulated psychological stress over time, not just an immediate trigger,” said psychiatrist Dr. Srijana Maharjan. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can lead individuals to feel hopeless, especially when untreated.
In Nepali’s case, she said, even a relatively small fine could become overwhelming for someone already struggling financially. “For someone without money even for daily meals, 1,000 rupees can feel like a mountain,” she said.
Psychologists also point to unemployment, debt, social humiliation, and punitive treatment of informal workers such as street vendors and ride-share drivers as contributing factors. Limited access to counseling and support systems further increases vulnerability.
“When individuals feel isolated and believe all options are closed, they may see suicide as the only way out,” Maharjan said.
Political backlash
Nepali’s death triggered sharp reactions in Parliament, with lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties criticizing the government’s response and broader governance.
Nepali Congress leader Gagan Thapa said the incident reflects deeper systemic issues.
“This is not just the death of one citizen; it is a mirror of our system,” Thapa said. “What kind of society are we building where people find it easier to die than to live? Could the state do nothing for a young man who could not afford to pay 1,000 rupees?”
Lawmaker Gyanendra Bahadur Shahi questioned whether government policies are pushing vulnerable citizens to desperation.
“Are we creating a situation where every poor citizen must carry petrol?” he said, criticizing municipal fines as excessive.
Rastriya Swatantra Party lawmaker Bhumika Limbu Subba accused authorities of treating poor citizens inhumanely and urged the Home Ministry to take action.
Lawmakers from the CPN-UML also called for an independent investigation and compensation for the victim’s family, condemning what they described as government indifference.
Calls for reform
Mental health experts and advocates say the tragedy underscores an urgent need for systemic reform in Nepal’s approach to mental health and social protection.
They stress the importance of expanding access to affordable and accessible mental health care, strengthening crisis helplines and rapid response systems, and training frontline officials to handle vulnerable individuals with greater sensitivity.
Experts also highlight the need to address broader structural challenges such as unemployment and economic insecurity, while promoting community-based mental health awareness programs to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.
Stakeholders say the government must move beyond forming investigation committees and providing compensation, and instead prioritize long-term policy reforms focused on dignity, prevention, and citizen well-being.
“This is a failure of the state,” said one advocate. “No one should be driven to death over a minor fine.”
(If you or someone you know is experiencing severe stress, deep emotional distress, or thoughts of self-harm, help is available and you do not have to face it alone. In Nepal, individuals can access support through the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1166 or the Mental Health Helpline at 9813471640, both available 24 hours a day. In the United States and Canada, support is available by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In the United Kingdom, individuals can contact Samaritans at 116 123, while in Australia, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14. Nepalis living in other countries are encouraged to contact local emergency services or national mental health helplines in their respective countries. These services are free, confidential, and available around the clock, offering immediate support to those in need.)
Dipendra Dhungana
View More PostsDipendra Dhungana is a journalist based in Kathmandu with over a decade of experience in photojournalism. His work has been featured in numerous national and international outlets, showcasing the stories and resilience of the Nepali people. He is also a contributing journalist for NepYork.
