Post tragedy, KIIT University calls for peace, stability
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, March 03 2025:
Aftermath of the tragic death of a Nepali female student on February 16, KIIT University, Odisha has emphasised the need for truth, peace, and stability, while expressing deep sorrow over the incident and urging for an end to misinformation and unrest.
In a, release the University informed as the student died by suicide in the girls' hostel, KIIT immediately handed over the matter to the police for investigation.
Preliminary reports suggested she was in a relationship with a fellow student and took the extreme step due to personal issues.
The university and police acted swiftly, detaining the boy at the airport.
He is now in custody, it said, assuring full cooperation with the authorities.
Following the incident, Nepali students at KIIT, distressed by the loss, staged a protest on the main road.
The situation escalated due to widespread social media rumours, intensifying tensions.
Despite 10 hours of counselling and discussions, some protestors continued blocking the public road, disrupting order.
KIIT acknowledged that cases of emotional distress leading to suicides are a growing concern in educational institutions across India and globally.
The university stated that managing student unrest is challenging, particularly when emotions run high.
To prevent further escalation, KIIT, in coordination with Bhubaneswar police, took swift action, including identifying and removing staff members who had committed excesses against Nepali students.
This included senior officials.
To maintain peace and ensure a fair investigation, Nepali students were initially advised to return home with their local guardians.
-However, following advice from government authorities, KIIT withdrew the temporary suspension of their academic classes and hostels.
Students who had left the campus were encouraged to return and resume their studies, it informed.
The KIIT founder personally addressed the concerns of Nepalese students in the presence of official of the Nepal Embassy.
The family of the deceased student, Prakriti Lamsal, publicly acknowledged the government's efforts and the university's cooperation.
The ministry of external affairs has also engaged in diplomatic discussions to restore order and ensure justice.
The press release stated that over 400 Nepali students have already returned to campus, satisfied with KIIT's actions and safety measures.
However, the university has raised concerns over an ongoing negative campaign against KIIT, KISS, and its founder.
It accused certain media outlets and individuals of spreading false narratives to defame the institution.
KIIT and KISS are globally recognised for their academic excellence and social contributions.
The university highlighted its role in hosting the Youth20 event during the G20 Summit, holding special consultative status with the UN ECOSOC, and receiving over 100 national and international awards.
KIIT stated that the continued attacks not only harm the university's reputation but also affect Odisha's global standing and future collaborations.
The university urged an end to misinformation and appealed for collective support in restoring normalcy.
It reaffirmed commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasising that its founder, who has dedicated his life to education and social welfare, has been unfairly targeted.
KIIT called for justice and peace, urging all stakeholders to focus on healing and progress.
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