A grim discovery on the morning of November 22, 2024, has shaken the residents of Kathmandu’s Kalimati area. The lifeless body of Januka Surkheti, a 45-year-old woman from Udayapur, was found discarded on Sangeetkar Marg. The case, now known as the Kalimati Murder, has captivated public attention, raising questions about safety, justice, and societal neglect of vulnerable individuals.
The Crime: What Happened?
The case came to light when passersby noticed the body of a woman lying on the roadside and alerted the authorities. Initial investigations revealed that the body had been carried and dumped, as confirmed by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanuram Bhattarai of the Valley Crime Investigation Office.
Surveillance footage proved critical in unraveling the mystery. Cameras captured a man, later identified as 22-year-old Kavindra Malla, carrying the woman’s body across the street in the early hours of the morning and abandoning it on the road.
The Suspect: Kavindra Malla’s Troubling Past
Malla, a native of Bajhang and a laborer at the Kalimati vegetable market, was arrested on November 23. Investigators revealed a long history of criminal activity, including theft, robbery, and inappropriate behavior.
His record shows:
- Nine prior arrests for various crimes, including a theft case as recently as October 2024.
- A lifestyle marked by substance abuse and financial struggles, often pushing him to petty crimes like pickpocketing.
- An unstable routine working as a loader, earning 500-700 rupees per shift.
At the time of his arrest, Malla confessed to carrying and discarding the body but denied involvement in any murder or sexual assault.
The Victim: Life and Tragic Death
The deceased, Januka Surkheti, was a homeless woman reportedly living on the streets of Kalimati. Witness accounts and CCTV footage suggest she was intoxicated on the evening of November 21. She was last seen lying on the roadside around 11 PM before being picked up by the accused hours later.
Circumstances around her death remain unclear:
- Clothing found partially undone: This has led to speculation about sexual assault.
- No visible injuries: Initial examinations did not reveal physical trauma, leaving the exact cause of death uncertain.
- Post-mortem pending: Authorities are awaiting the autopsy report to confirm if there was foul play or natural causes.
Police Investigation: What We Know So Far
The Kathmandu District Court has granted police a five-day remand for Malla. Authorities are investigating possible charges of homicide while keeping an open mind about other criminal possibilities.
Key findings so far:
- CCTV evidence: Footage shows Malla picking up and discarding the body around 3:17 AM.
- Behavioral patterns: Malla admitted to heavy drinking that night and claimed to have no clear recollection of his actions.
- Victim’s last hours: Footage and witness accounts place Januka on the streets between 8 PM and 11 PM. She appeared intoxicated and vulnerable.
SSP Bhattarai emphasized technology in identifying the suspect, adding that the investigation remains preliminary.
