Former Nepali Minister Rajendra Kharel Passes Away at 80
Former minister and veteran Nepali Congress leader Rajendra Kharel passed away in Kathmandu last night at the age of 80. The prominent politician succumbed to respiratory complications while undergoing intensive medical care, marking the end of a distinguished decades-long career in Nepalese public service.
Key Highlights
- Former State Minister Rajendra Kharel passed away at 80 due to worsening asthma complications.
- He served as an elected lawmaker from Kavre and held multiple key ministerial portfolios.
- The late leader maintained close political ties with historic figures like BP Koirala.
- Final rites are scheduled at Pashupati Aryaghat following a public tribute at the party headquarters.
The senior democracy fighter died at approximately 9:45 PM on Sunday while receiving treatment at Frontline Hospital in Baneshwor, Kathmandu. His health had deteriorated recently due to intensifying issues with asthma.
His son, Mahesh Kharel, who serves as the mayor of Panachkhal Municipality, officially confirmed the demise. The senior Kharel was historically aligned with legendary giants of Nepali politics, including BP Koirala, Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, and Ganesh Man Singh. He secured his parliamentary seat from Kavre during the historic general elections of 2056 BS. Throughout his tenure in parliament, he held vital portfolios, serving as the Minister of State for Education and leading the Ministry for Women, Children, and Social Welfare.
According to updates provided by Mahesh Kharel, who is also the president of Nepali Congress Kavre Constituency No. 2, the mortal remains will rest at the party’s Central Office in Sanepa, Lalitpur. Well-wishers can pay their final respects from 9 AM to 11 AM. Following the memorial service, the final cremation rites will take place at Pashupati Aryaghat at 1 PM.
Political Legacy and Historical Impact
Rajendra Kharel belonged to the generation of Nepali Congress leaders who fought extensively for the restoration of democracy in Nepal. His close association with foundational leaders like BP Koirala shaped his political ideology, making him a crucial pillar for the party in the Kavre district. His election in 2056 BS marked a significant period in Nepal’s legislative transition, and his subsequent administrative leadership in the education and social welfare ministries left a lasting imprint on national governance and social development policies.
FAQs
Who was Rajendra Kharel?
Rajendra Kharel was a veteran politician and senior leader of the Nepali Congress party. He served as a Member of Parliament from Kavre and held positions as the State Minister for Education and Minister for Women, Children, and Social Welfare.
What caused the death of Rajendra Kharel?
He passed away at the age of 80 due to escalating health complications related to asthma. He was undergoing medical treatment at Frontline Hospital in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, at the time of his death.
When and where will the final rites of Rajendra Kharel take place?
His final rites are scheduled to be performed at Pashupati Aryaghat at 1 PM on Monday. Prior to the cremation, his body will be kept at the Nepali Congress Central Office in Sanepa from 9 AM to 11 AM for public tributes.
