KIIT University Nepali Student Death: A Tragic Incident and Its Aftermath

The unfortunate demise of Prakriti Lamsal, a 20-year-old Nepali student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha, has sparked widespread protests, legal actions, and diplomatic concerns between India and Nepal. This incident, which took place on February 16, has raised serious questions about institutional responsibility, student safety, and the treatment of international students in India.

The Events Leading to the Tragedy

Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year BTech Computer Science student, was found dead in her hostel room in what appears to be a case of suicide. Reports indicate she had been subjected to harassment by a fellow student, Advik Srivastava, a 21-year-old mechanical engineering student. Her father, Sunil Lamsal, has stated that his daughter was emotionally distressed and manipulated, which may have contributed to her tragic death.

Authorities arrested Srivastava on charges of abetting suicide, and he remains in judicial custody. An audio recording allegedly containing derogatory remarks made by Srivastava against Lamsal and her mother surfaced online, intensifying public outrage. However, the authenticity of the recording is yet to be verified.

Student Protests and Forced Evictions

Following Lamsal’s death, Nepali students at KIIT organized demonstrations demanding justice and a transparent investigation. Instead of engaging constructively, university authorities allegedly responded with force to disperse the demonstrators. Videos circulated online show university personnel, including security staff, physically handling students, escalating tensions further.

In a shocking move, KIIT University ordered all Nepali students to vacate their hostels immediately on February 17. This decision left hundreds stranded, with many forcibly transported to Cuttack railway station without prior arrangements. The incident drew significant criticism from both Indian and Nepali officials, prompting intervention by the Nepalese government.

Legal Actions and Institutional Response

Following the public outcry, Odisha police arrested five university officials for their role in the forced eviction of Nepali students:

• Sibananda Mishra (59), Director General, HR
• Pratap Kumar Chamupaty (51), Director (Administration)
• Sudhir Kumar Rath (59), Director of Hostels
• Security guards Ramakanta Nayak (45) and Jogendra Behera (25)

Despite their arrest, all five were later granted bail, prompting further dissatisfaction among students and activists. Two separate legal cases have been initiated—one filed by the victim’s cousin and another by police based on videos showing students being mistreated.

To ensure a transparent investigation, the Odisha government has set up a high-level fact-finding committee, led by Additional Chief Secretary of Home Satyabrata Sahu, with officials from the higher education and women and child development departments.

Diplomatic and Political Repercussions

The incident has escalated into a diplomatic concern, with Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli warning that Nepal may reconsider sending its students to India unless the case is handled justly. The Indian Embassy in Nepal has assured that it is closely monitoring developments and will ensure appropriate legal actions are taken based on the investigation’s findings.

In Nepal’s Parliament, lawmakers have urged their government to advocate for a fair investigation. Among those demanding justice for Lamsal and better protection for Nepali students studying in India are politicians such as Shishir Khanal, Bina Lama, Sita Mijar, Sher Bahadur Kunwar, and Shanti Bika.

In Odisha, the controversy has taken on a political dimension. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief whip Pratap Deb criticized the BJP-led state government for failing to maintain law and order. In response, BJP legislator Tankadhar Tripathy accused the BJD of shielding KIIT’s founder, Achyuta Samanta, a former MP from their party.

University’s Response and Corrective Measures

KIIT University initially termed the incident as “unfortunate” and justified its actions by claiming that the protesters disrupted peace and blocked roads, necessitating intervention. However, after facing significant backlash, KIIT issued an apology and took corrective measures, including:

• Suspension of three university employees
• Termination of two security personnel involved in the eviction
• Suspension of a senior official accused of ignoring Lamsal’s prior complaints

Despite these actions, the university continues to face criticism over its handling of international student grievances.

Unfair treatment of Nepali Students and Widespread Concerns

Beyond Prakriti Lamsal’s tragic demise, concerns have been raised about the treatment of Nepali students at KIIT. Allegations of racial discrimination, lack of institutional support, and derogatory remarks made by university staff have come to light. One official reportedly claimed that KIIT’s student welfare budget exceeds Nepal’s GDP, a statement that has fueled resentment among Nepali students.

Reports indicate that nearly 800 Nepali students have left KIIT following the incident, with only around 100 remaining on campus. Many express fears regarding their safety, education, and the university’s accountability.

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Prakriti Lamsal at KIIT University has sparked critical discussions on harassment, institutional responsibility, and the treatment of international students in India. With diplomatic pressure mounting, legal proceedings underway, and political debates intensifying, the outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications. The findings of the high-level investigative committee will determine whether justice is served and if this tragedy leads to meaningful reforms to protect international students in India.