Achham woman dies after seven-year battle for justice

Dhangadhi: A woman from Achham who had spent seven years seeking justice through legal and administrative channels has died, leaving behind a story of prolonged struggle, despair and alleged institutional failure. Janaki Dhamala, 38, of Kalekanda, Panchadeval Binayak Municipality-9, Achham, died by suicide after posting a message on social media describing the pain of not receiving justice and the mental torture she endured, according to her family.

Family members said Janaki had been deeply depressed after repeatedly approaching the police, ward office, local judicial committee, district court and high court without timely relief. In her social media status, she wrote about being rejected by her family, socially boycotted, and exhausted by a lengthy legal process. She also expressed the emotional pain of being separated from her children, which she said had left her feeling increasingly isolated.

Janaki’s husband, Chandra Dhakal, had been living in India for employment. After learning that he had remarried seven years ago, Janaki went to the district headquarters, Mangalsen, in search of justice. Her efforts continued for years as her case moved through various institutions. About three years ago, a polygamy-related case was registered at the Achham District Court. However, the court ruled against Janaki, citing insufficient evidence. Relatives said the verdict further weakened her mental state.

The High Court later overturned the district court’s decision, ruling that polygamy had occurred and sentencing the husband and his second wife. After paying the amount equivalent to the sentence, the husband was released without serving a jail term. According to the family, Janaki’s situation became more insecure following the verdict. She was forced several times to stay at a safe house in Mangalsen, where she learned sewing and received counseling.

After the court ruling, Chandra Dhakal filed for divorce. Janaki, who had married for love, did not want to separate and was seeking family support. However, being barred from meeting her children deeply affected her. Relatives said this separation caused her the greatest emotional pain.

Chandra Dhakal and Janaki had married for love and have three children. Janaki’s uncle, Satyaraj Timilsena, chairman of Kamalbazar Municipality Ward No. 5, said that Janaki began experiencing severe mental stress after her husband married another woman in India. “Janaki wrote on Facebook that her husband remarried and that other family members ignored her and caused her mental stress,” he said. “It appears she made this decision because she could not bear the physical and mental pressure from her husband and family.”

Janaki’s body has been kept at the district hospital. The family has stated that they will not proceed with the funeral until those they believe are responsible are brought forward.