JHAPA — In an alarming turn of events, police in Jhapa district have arrested three individuals from different municipalities in connection with separate cases of rape — including crimes committed against a mentally challenged young woman and an elderly mother-in-law.

The arrests, made from Haldibari, Kachankawal, and Jhapa Rural Municipality, underscore the persistent and often unspoken epidemic of sexual violence that continues to afflict Nepal's most vulnerable populations. Authorities say all three cases are being investigated with urgency and seriousness.

A 73-Year-Old Accused of Repeatedly Raping Mentally Challenged Woman

Among the most harrowing of the cases is that of Medni Prasad Chapagain, a 73-year-old resident of Haldibari Ward 2. He stands accused of raping a 26-year-old mentally challenged woman multiple times over several months, leading to a pregnancy now confirmed to be 20 weeks along.

According to police reports, the abuse allegedly began in the Nepali month of Magh. Local health authorities were alerted after a routine health check-up revealed the pregnancy, prompting an immediate inquiry that culminated in Chapagain's arrest. A formal complaint has been lodged by the woman's family, who are demanding swift justice for the victim.

Home Invasion Assault in Kachankawal

In a separate incident, Hardev Yadav, also known by the alias Dikumar, has been taken into custody from Pallabari, Kachankawal Ward 6. The 23-year-old allegedly entered the home of a 28-year-old woman and raped her within her own residence.

The survivor, according to preliminary statements, was home alone at the time. Neighbors reported suspicious activity, prompting police intervention. Authorities are now investigating the timeline of the attack and whether the suspect had a prior connection to the victim.

Rape Within the Family: Man Arrested for Assaulting Elderly Mother-in-Law

In yet another shocking case, a man from Jhapa Rural Municipality has been arrested on charges of raping his 65-year-old mother-in-law. Police are withholding the suspect's name to protect the identity of the survivor, but sources confirm that the alleged assault took place within the family household.

The woman is currently under medical care and trauma counselling. Investigators are exploring the possibility of prior abuse and whether coercion or threats were involved.