Why Has the Chaupadi Practice Not Been Eradicated in Far-Western Nepal?
Dhangadhi – In the Far-Western Province of Nepal, the dangerous tradition of Chaupadi continues to put women’s lives at risk. During menstruation, women are forced to stay in unsafe, isolated huts (Chaupadi Goth) outside their homes. Despite over two decades of protests against this harmful practice, it has not been completely eliminated.
Deaths and Ongoing Debate
There have been several cases where women and young girls have died due to unsafe conditions in these huts, sparking debates about the practice. Recently, 28-year-old Kamala Damai of Krishnapur Municipality-1, Kanchanpur, died after being bitten by a snake while staying in a Chaupadi Goth. This tragic incident has once again brought the issue into serious discussion.
Local Government Takes Action
Following Kamala’s death, Krishnapur Municipality launched a campaign to demolish Chaupadi Goths. Mayor Hemraj Oja admitted that while the municipality was aware of some huts in the area, local communities had long treated the practice as part of their culture and tradition, making enforcement difficult.
Past Efforts and New Initiatives
In the past, there have been efforts to demolish these huts and raise awareness. Krishnapur Municipality has also begun the process of declaring Ward No. 1 a child-friendly local governance ward, with the elimination of Chaupadi as one of the key indicators. Over the past six months, local healers (Dhami-Jhakri) have been educated to change their beliefs, stating that menstruation is natural and not a curse. Additionally, awareness programs have been conducted in 22 communities, and 250 children have been taught about safe menstrual practices.
Why Does the Practice Persist?
Despite these efforts, deep-rooted social fears and superstitions keep the practice alive. Kamala’s family had lived in India for a long time, where they did not follow Chaupadi. However, after returning to Nepal, social pressure forced her to stay in a hut, leading to her tragic death. Mayor Oja emphasized that the dangers of Chaupadi go beyond snakebites—these huts are small, unsafe, and often lack proper doors, making women vulnerable to other forms of violence.
Provincial and Local Government Efforts
The Far-Western Provincial Government has also taken steps to eliminate Chaupadi. In 2076 BS, they introduced a policy to eradicate the practice, forming committees at provincial, district, and local levels. However, the challenge remains in changing people’s mindsets. Social Development Minister Meghraj Khadka stated that simply demolishing huts is not enough—awareness must be strengthened to change deep-seated beliefs.
Challenges in Remote Areas
Achham is one of the most affected districts, where Chaupadi remains widespread despite years of activism. In some rural areas, even pregnant women are forced into these huts. Local representatives like Manish Saud from Mellekh Rural Municipality admit that fear of social backlash prevents many from abandoning the practice.
Some Success Stories
In some areas, progress has been made. Chaurpati Rural Municipality claims that Ward No. 7 is now Chaupadi-free, and other wards are also improving. The municipality has warned that families enforcing Chaupadi will be denied government services. Their goal is to declare the entire municipality Chaupadi-free within this fiscal year.
Education as a Key Solution
Many believe education is the ultimate solution. Women like Maya Rokaya and Rupa Thapa argue that only through education and empowerment can such practices end. They stress that girls must be educated to resist such traditions.
Families Affected by Tragedy Change Their Ways
Families who have lost loved ones in Chaupadi huts have stopped the practice. Six years ago, a teenage girl in Kailali died from a snakebite in a hut, prompting her family to demolish it. However, others who have not faced such tragedies continue to enforce the tradition due to social pressure.
Resistance from Traditional Beliefs
In some communities, people refuse to abandon Chaupadi, claiming it is tied to their ancestral customs. Some locals, like Champ Budha, argue that instead of ending the practice, the huts should be made safer. Others, like Dhauli Damai, plan to build cleaner, more secure spaces for menstruating women but are unwilling to completely stop the practice.
A Long Road Ahead
Despite over a decade of efforts, Chaupadi persists in Far-Western Nepal. While some improvements have been made, complete eradication requires stronger enforcement, continuous awareness, and a shift in societal attitudes. Until then, women and girls remain at risk.