The alleged rape and murder of a three-year-old girl has sparked widespread outrage and protests across Nepal, with activists and politicians calling on the government to strengthen laws on serious crimes against children. The girl was found dead last week, three days after disappearing in Madhesh province, and nine people have since been arrested in connection with the case. The killing has also renewed scrutiny of police conduct, after footage of a teenage suspect being questioned was leaked onto social media, and has reignited debate over how Nepal should punish young offenders.

Following days of demonstrations in the city of Simara, the victim's family met government ministers and secured a written agreement promising a review of laws on serious offences and a memorial for the child. A police officer has reportedly been identified as responsible for leaking the video and faces disciplinary action, with officials pledging "zero tolerance" for such breaches. Human rights activist Gauri Pradhan urged accountability and wider reform but warned against introducing the death penalty. Nepalese police data show more than 25,500 rape and sexual abuse accusations were filed between July 2017 and July 2025, of which over 3,200 involved female victims under the age of 10.