A major controversy has erupted at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha following the death of Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year Nepali student. She was found dead in her hostel room on February 16, 2025. This tragic incident triggered protests, leading to 159 Nepalese students returning to their home country.
The students claimed they were treated inhumanely by university authorities. They alleged being verbally abused, beaten by security guards in the presence of staff, and forced out of their hostels. The situation has now turned into a diplomatic issue, drawing the attention of Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba.
To address the crisis, Deuba spoke with Odisha’s Higher Education Minister, Suryabanshi Suraj, requesting a fair investigation and a safer environment for Nepalese students. In response, the Odisha government has formed a high-level inquiry committee.
KIIT authorities have apologized and taken action against staff members responsible for mistreating students. However, the protests and student unrest highlight the need for stronger safety measures for international students.
The investigation is ongoing, and both governments are working together to ensure justice and a secure learning environment for students. This incident raises serious concerns about the treatment of foreign students in Indian universities.
