KATHMANDU: A human skeleton has been discovered buried in a forest in Ankh Khet Kalimul, Beni Municipality-9, raising suspicions that it belongs to Meena Pariyar, a 19-year-old who went missing in January. Alongside the skeleton, a gold chain, clothes, and slippers were found, prompting immediate notification to police and local officials.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Bharat Shrestha confirmed that the remains and associated items will be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for identification and testing. The search for Meena has involved multiple agencies, and her relatives believe the items found belong to her, suspecting she was murdered and buried in the forest.

Deepak Pariyar, Shushil Pariyar, and Sanam Pariyar discovered the skeleton after noticing clothes and signs of burial. They reported their findings to the police, who are now investigating the case. The search for Meena had involved significant effort, including petitions to high-ranking officials and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB).

Ram Khatri, a local youth previously arrested on charges related to Meena's disappearance, has admitted to a romantic relationship with her but denies involvement in her disappearance. Meena was reportedly pregnant and had planned to escape to India, based on communications found on her mobile phone. The final forensic report is awaited to confirm the identity and further details of the case.