Woman murdered in Pokhara, investigation underway

KATHMANDU: A 42-year-old woman, Srijana Paudel Kshetri, was fatally attacked on Wednesday evening at Sabha Griha Chowk in Pokhara. Police said the assailant struck her on the head with a sharp weapon before fleeing toward Shivalaya Chowk. Authorities are close to identifying the suspect.

Srijana, a single mother raising her young daughter, had been living in the Sedi area near Phewa Lake following marital disputes. She had previously been married to a local meat and restaurant businessman, Krishna, who passed away shortly after the birth of their three-year-old daughter.

Police reports indicate that Srijana had stepped out for household shopping when she was attacked while waiting for a vehicle. CCTV footage shows the assailant fleeing on a scooter toward the Lakekside route. Officers say the widespread CCTV coverage in the area may help identify the perpetrator.

Srijana’s family history includes conflicts over property and previous marital disputes. Police suggest the attack may have stemmed from long-standing family tensions, but no definitive motive has yet been confirmed.

DSP Haribahadur Basnet of Kaski District Police stated, “It is difficult to comment before apprehending the suspect. There is no indication of an immediate dispute at the time of the attack.”