In a shocking and tragic incident at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) University in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a 20-year-old Nepali student, Prakriti Lamsal, was found dead in her hostel room. Prakriti, a third-year engineering student, is suspected to have taken her own life after facing alleged harassment by a batchmate. The university has confirmed the tragic news, but the circumstances surrounding her death have ignited outrage and protests among the student community, particularly Nepali students studying at the university.
The Incident: What We Know So Far
Prakriti Lamsal, who hailed from Nepal, had been pursuing her B.Tech program at KIIT University. Reports suggest that Prakriti was subjected to harassment by a batchmate, an issue she had reportedly flagged to the university administration. Despite her complaints, there are allegations that the university did not act in a timely manner to address the situation.
It is believed that the harassment Prakriti experienced may have been one of the key factors contributing to her tragic decision. The young woman was found dead in her hostel room, and authorities have sealed the room for investigation. The news of her death quickly spread, sparking protests from fellow Nepali students, who are now demanding justice for Prakriti and accountability from the university.
KIIT University: A Prestigious Institution with a Growing Reputation
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), founded in 1992, is one of India’s leading private universities located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Initially established as an engineering college, KIIT has expanded over the years to offer a diverse range of programs, including management, law, medical sciences, arts, humanities, and more.
KIIT is renowned for its modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees across numerous fields. It is particularly known for its engineering programs, which attract students from all corners of the globe, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and other countries.
KIIT is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and has earned accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) for its engineering courses. The university’s strong ties with global institutions also open doors for students to explore exchange programs and internships worldwide.
Student Life at KIIT University
KIIT boasts a vibrant campus life. Students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, cultural events, and technical festivals. The university organizes popular annual events like the KIIT Fest and Tech Fest, which draw large crowds from across the country.
For students from Nepal, KIIT offers a warm and welcoming environment, with a sizable Nepali student community. Nepali students often form tight-knit groups, participating in cultural activities, festivals, and social events. KIIT also provides a range of facilities for students, including hostels, sports complexes, libraries, and state-of-the-art computer labs. However, despite these positive aspects, this tragic incident has raised serious questions about the university’s response to student grievances.
Nepali Students at KIIT: Challenges and Opportunities
KIIT has become a popular destination for students from Nepal seeking quality education in India. The university’s academic rigor, combined with modern infrastructure, makes it an attractive option for aspiring engineers, managers, and other professionals. Nepali students are a significant presence on campus, contributing to the multicultural diversity of the university.
However, like Prakriti’s case, some Nepali students have faced difficulties during their time at KIIT, particularly regarding harassment, cultural adjustments, and the university’s handling of such matters. The unfortunate death of Prakriti has brought these concerns to the forefront, sparking discussions about the mental health and emotional well-being of international students, especially those from smaller communities.
The Protests: Calls for Justice
Following Prakriti’s death, a wave of protests erupted, especially among the Nepali student community. They have demanded justice for Prakriti, highlighting what they perceive as the university’s failure to address her complaints about harassment. Students are calling for a review of KIIT’s grievance redressal system, better counseling services, and more robust mechanisms to prevent harassment.
The incident has also raised questions about the support systems available to students dealing with emotional distress, especially for those far away from their home countries. Prakriti’s family, too, has been vocal in their quest for answers and accountability.
KIT administration and its registrar leave 500 Nepali students to railway station
KIIT initially ordered over 500 Nepali students to vacate the campus and return home. The university arranged buses to transport these students to various railway stations. However, following discussions with the Embassy of Nepal, KIIT rescinded its earlier directive. The university announced that Nepali students could choose to remain on campus or return home, based on their preference. The incident has prompted diplomatic engagement, with the Prime Minister of Nepal, K.P. Sharma Oli, stating that arrangements have been made to ensure that students can either stay on campus or return home, depending on their choice. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing investigations and discussions between the university administration, students, and diplomatic representatives.
Investigation and University’s Response
KIIT University has been under scrutiny since the incident, with local police launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Prakriti’s death. Authorities have arrested the accused student involved in the harassment, and investigations are ongoing to uncover all the details. The university has expressed condolences to the family of the deceased student and has assured cooperation with the investigation.
However, the protests among Nepali students continue, as they believe the university’s response was insufficient in addressing Prakriti’s concerns. In the wake of the incident, the university has asked all Nepali students to vacate the campus, which has further escalated tensions between the administration and the student body.
The Need for Change: Addressing Harassment and Mental Health Support
The tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of having robust systems in place to protect students from harassment and to provide mental health support. Universities, especially those with large international student populations, must take proactive measures to ensure that students feel safe, heard, and supported.
In light of this incident, KIIT University, along with other institutions, should consider reviewing their student grievance and harassment policies. It is crucial to offer a more responsive system for students to report concerns, coupled with strong anti-harassment protocols. Additionally, there should be more emphasis on counseling services, workshops, and mental health awareness campaigns to help students cope with the pressures of academic life and personal challenges.
Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Change
The death of Prakriti Lamsal, a bright young Nepali student at KIIT University, has left an indelible mark on the community. It is a tragic event that calls for a reassessment of how universities handle student welfare, particularly the mental health and safety of international students.
As the investigation continues, we hope that justice will be served, and this incident will bring about meaningful changes in university policies. It is time for institutions to prioritize student well-being, ensuring that no student feels isolated or vulnerable during their academic journey.