Ishwot Adhikari, 26, originally from ward 12 of Bhanu Municipality, Tanahun, and residing in Kathmandu, was killed by gunfire during Monday’s protest in the capital.

Ishwot, son of former Nepali Army Major Ishwar Bahadur Adhikari and Anjana Thapa, had left home specifically to attend the demonstration for his father’s sake. His father said, “He wanted me to come with him. When I offered, he said this was a Gen Z movement, for us, and went on his own.”

Ishwot went to the protest with the hope of a corruption-free country and meaningful change. “We are heartbroken. Who wouldn’t be hurt when a young son doesn’t return from a demonstration? The entire nation is grieving. My son became a martyr. I want what the country wants,” his father said.

Ishwot was grandson of Bhim Bahadur Adhikari, former joint secretary at the Ministry of Finance. He had completed his postgraduate studies in English and psychology and was pursuing management. The family said he was preparing to study in the UK and had his passport renewal underway in Kathmandu.

The Adhikari family has long resided in Balaju, Kathmandu, though their ancestral home is in Tanahun.