KATHMANDU: In Sorung Chhabise, Katari Municipality-10, Udayapur district, a tragic incident has occurred where a mother, Nirmala Thapa, 40, and her 6-year-old son, Aarus Thapa, were found dead in their grocery shop. The bodies were discovered this morning by customers who visited the shop, located near the ward office.

According to Ward President Kshetra Bahadur Khadka, Nirmala's body was found face down on the floor, while her son's body was on the bed. It is reported that the son died from being struck by a weapon. The police were promptly notified, and an investigation is underway.

Inspector Umesh Mahato of the Area Police Office, Katari, confirmed that police are at the scene and have begun their investigation. It has been noted that Ashok Thapa, Nirmala's husband, had left for India with his younger wife two years ago. Nirmala and Aarus had stayed in the shop overnight, which is about 300 meters from their main house.

Local officials, including Gita Kumari Giri from Katari Municipality and other community members, have been involved in the investigation. The deceased had spoken with her brother-in-law until late the previous evening, and there were plans to slaughter a goat the following morning. The incident, occurring just before the Teej festival, has left the local community in mourning.