Social media erupted with anger on Saturday after a hit-and-run incident in Lalitpur involved a vehicle carrying Koshi Province’s Finance and Planning Minister, Ram Bahadur Magar. The incident, which has reignited debates over morality and accountability among public officials, saw netizens questioning the very humanity of those in positions of power.
The accident occurred at around 7:15 AM near Harisiddhi Secondary School in Lalitpur Metropolitan City-28. CCTV footage captured 11-year-old Usha Magar Sunuwar attempting to cross the road just ahead of a zebra crossing when the government vehicle (registration Ko 1 Jha 699) struck her. The girl was knocked to the ground, yet the car continued without stopping. A bystander on a motorcycle rushed to help her.
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Lalitpur Police confirmed that Minister Magar was present in the vehicle at the time. Fortunately, the girl did not sustain serious injuries and was discharged from B&B Hospital after receiving treatment.
Public anger intensified after party chair KP Sharma Oli described the incident as a “normal” occurrence, warning against politicising it. Many criticised the remark, arguing that it was inappropriate for the Prime Minister to dismiss the matter rather than holding the responsible leader accountable.
Social media users quickly took to platforms to demand moral responsibility and accountability from both the party and Minister Magar. In response, the party announced it would cover all medical expenses for the injured girl, and Magar visited her at the hospital later in the day. The vehicle had been en route to Godawari for the UML’s Second Statute Convention.
Despite restrictions on unregistered social media platforms, the incident went viral through VPNs and alternative networks. Posts tagged #EnoughIsEnough have proliferated, reflecting public frustration and a growing demand that those in government positions be held accountable for their actions. Amid mounting public criticisms, Minister Magar had also reached the hospital to visit the injured girl.
