Tragic Death of Nepali Student at KIIT University: Actions Taken by India and Nepal

Tragic Death of Nepali Student at KIIT University: 

Actions Taken by India and Nepal

A heartbreaking incident unfolded at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, as 20-year-old Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepali student, was found dead in her hostel room on February 16, 2025. She was a third-year B.Tech Computer Science student from Butwal, Nepal. Reports suggest that she was a victim of persistent harassment by a fellow student, Advik Srivastava from Lucknow, who has since been arrested on charges of abetment to suicide.

Protests and Immediate Aftermath:

The incident triggered massive protests among KIIT’s Nepali student community, demanding justice for Prakriti. Over 500 Nepali students participated in demonstrations, calling for stricter action against harassment on campus. In a controversial move, the KIIT administration initially asked all Nepali students to vacate their hostels, a decision that was met with criticism and allegations of forced eviction.

Actions Taken by Indian Authorities:

1. Police Investigation & Arrest: The Odisha police acted swiftly, arresting Advik Srivastava and launching an investigation into Prakriti’s death. The case has been classified as a suspected suicide due to harassment.
2. University’s Response: Following backlash, KIIT revoked its eviction order and invited Nepali students to return. The university also set up a 24/7 control room and helpline to support affected students.
3. Government Intervention: The Odisha state government has assured a fair investigation, promising justice for Prakriti and better safety measures for international students.

Nepal Government’s Response

1. Diplomatic Engagement: Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli personally intervened, instructing the Nepalese embassy in New Delhi to assist affected students. Embassy officials were dispatched to Bhubaneswar to ensure their safety and counsel them.
2. Student Welfare Assurance: The Nepalese government demanded justice for Prakriti and urged Indian authorities to ensure a fair investigation. PM Oli reassured that students would have the option to either return home safely or continue their studies.
3. Helpline for Nepali Students: Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up emergency contact lines for students and their families, providing guidance and support.

Key Takeaways

This tragic incident has raised serious concerns about student safety and harassment in educational institutions. The swift actions by both Indian and Nepalese authorities highlight the importance of cross-border cooperation in ensuring justice and student welfare. Universities across India must take proactive steps to address harassment and create a safer environment for international students.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on delivering justice for Prakriti Lamsal and ensuring that such tragedies do not repeat in the future.

#KIIT #Students #Prakriti #NepalIndia