Woman dies from snake bite in Chhau goth, Kanchanpur

A 28-year-old woman named Kamala Aauji died after being bitten by a snake while sleeping in a chhau goth (a shed used during menstruation) in Kanchanpur district.

According to police, the incident happened in Nigali, Krishnaur Municipality-1, while Kamala was staying in the chhau goth during her menstrual period. She was bitten on the left cheek by a snake while she was asleep.

Due to her worsening condition, Kamala was rushed to Seti Provincial Hospital, but she died during treatment, said District Police Office spokesperson DSP Sagar Bohara.

Although her death has been confirmed, DSP Bohara mentioned that official confirmation about her being in a chhau goth at the time of the snake bite is still pending.

However, Krishnaur Municipality Mayor Hemraj Ojha confirmed that she was indeed staying in a chhau goth. He also said the municipality has been actively working to destroy such sheds and end the harmful tradition of chhaupadi, which forces menstruating women to sleep in unsafe and isolated places.

Despite awareness campaigns and legal actions, the harmful practice of chhaupadi continues in parts of western Nepal. Tragic incidents like snake bites, assaults, or even deaths have been reported in the past due to this cultural practice.