A ward chairman from Puthauttarganga Rural Municipality in Rukum (East) has been charged of beating a local woman.

Jaya Kumar Budha, the ward chairman of Puthauttarganga-11, allegedly beat and injured Jayapuri Budha Magar on Sunday. According to locals, the two had a dispute over the construction of a toilet on a public building.

Laxman, Magar’s brother, said she sustained injuries on her head when the ward chairman thrashed her with his helmet. Magar received treatment at a local medical unit.

According to Laxman, Budha attacked Magar because she did not consult with him over an issue regarding the construction.

Magar lodged a complaint at the District Administration Office, District Police Office and woman’s rights network two days ago, demanding justice. “The administration and the police have not taken any initiatives for discussion so far,” said Laxman.

Budha, however, refused any wrongdoing. He claimed that Jayapuri fell and injured herself while he attempted to run away after being attacked by the village mob.