Dhangadhi — A tragic incident occurred in Krishna Pur, Kanchanpur district, where 28-year-old Kamala Damai died after being bitten by a venomous snake while staying in a traditional menstrual shed, locally known as a “chhau goth.” Kamala, a resident of Krishna Pur Municipality–1, Nigali village, was sleeping alone in the shed near her home during her menstrual period when the snake bit her left cheek on Friday.
Despite having a safe and permanent house, Kamala was forced to stay in the chhau goth due to deep-rooted superstitions. After being bitten, she screamed in pain. By the time her family arrived, she was unconscious. She was rushed to Seti Provincial Hospital in Dhangadhi, where she died on Saturday during treatment.
Kamala’s family had migrated from Achham district. According to locals, the practice of sending women and girls to live in separate sheds during menstruation remains common in the village, which has approximately 120 households, each with a chhau goth.
Arjun Saud, Ward Chairperson of Ward No. 2, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “It is shameful for our society that a life was lost due to sleeping in a shed despite having a safe home.” He added, “Although laws exist against such harmful customs, incidents like these will continue unless societal attitudes change.”
This incident highlights the dangers of outdated beliefs still present in the community and emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and action to eliminate harmful practices and ensure safe living conditions and equal rights.
