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2mo ago

Nepalese Student's Death at KIIT Sparks Protests and Diplomatic Concerns

The Odisha government and Nepalese authorities initiate investigations after a student's death and alleged mistreatment of Nepalese students at KIIT University.

Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addresses a press conference in New Delhi (PTI FILE)
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The high-level probe committee, headed by additional chief secretary (home) Satyabrata Sahu, asked Samanta (in picture) and other KIIT staff why notices were issued only to Nepali students to leave the hostel (Facebook photo)

Overview

  • Prakriti Lamsal, a 20-year-old Nepalese engineering student at KIIT, allegedly died by suicide on February 16, leading to unrest on campus and diplomatic tensions between India and Nepal.
  • The Odisha government has formed a high-level committee to investigate the student's death, the alleged harassment she faced, and the reported eviction and mistreatment of Nepalese students by university staff.
  • KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta and senior university officials have been questioned by the inquiry panel, while 11 individuals, including a student and staff members, have been arrested in connection with the incidents.
  • Nepal's Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has called for an impartial investigation and permanent action against staff accused of misconduct, while 159 Nepalese students have returned home, citing safety concerns.
  • The incidents have drawn criticism from political leaders and students' families, with demands for justice, a judicial inquiry, and measures to ensure the safety of international students in India.