KIIT revokes eviction order for Nepali students amid protests over student’s death

KATHMANDU: Odisha’s Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has reversed its decision to expel Nepali students, allowing them to stay if they wish.  Earlier, the university ordered them to vacate hostels following the suspicious death of Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year BTech student from Butwal, Nepal.

Lamsal was found dead on Sunday evening after allegedly facing persistent harassment from an Indian classmate. Nepali students accused the administration of ignoring their prior complaints and staged a peaceful protest demanding justice. Instead of addressing their concerns, KIIT ordered them to leave, with reports of security personnel assaulting those who refused.

Over 500 students were taken to railway stations in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, but with the next train to Nepal not available until Thursday, many were left stranded. Later, KIIT urged students to return and resume classes, claiming the police had arrested the accused.

The Nepali Embassy in New Delhi contacted the university to ensure student safety. The Prime Minister’s Secretariat confirmed that two Nepali officials were sent to Odisha for support. Students now have the option to stay in hostels or return home.

KIIT suggested Lamsal’s death was linked to a romantic relationship, a claim rejected by her peers, who insist it was due to harassment and negligence. Security at the university has been tightened, and Lamsal’s room sealed. Her family is en route to India. Over 800 Nepali students are currently enrolled at KIIT.