Flood victims in Nepal unable to obtain death certificates and relief

The August 26 flash floods in Nepal left thousands missing, and without recovered bodies families cannot obtain death certificates. Under Section 40 of the 2017 Civil Code, a person is only presumed dead after being missing for 12 years, creating a legal barrier to relief, compensation, pension and insurance claims. Local officials in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha have written to the home ministry and met with Prime Minister Balendra Shah, urging a cabinet decision or law amendment.

While some families have performed symbolic funeral rites, they lack financial support because officials refuse assistance without a death certificate. The government has acknowledged the issue and said a decision will be reached within days, but no concrete action has been announced.