KIIT University staff apologizes for mistreatment of Nepali students

KATHMANDU: A staff member of India’s Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) University has issued an apology following protests by Nepali students demanding a fair investigation into the death of a fellow Nepali student.

The apology came through a video message after students staged a peaceful demonstration against the university.

The protests erupted after Nepali student Lamsal was found dead in her hostel room on Sunday.

During the protests, university staff allegedly mistreated the students. In her apology, the staff member acknowledged her mistake, stating:

“This video is to apologize for my remarks on the night of Feb 16. My statements were personal and did not reflect the views of KIIT University. I sincerely regret that my words hurt Nepali students and the Nepali community.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Vice-Chancellor Saranjit Singh expressed deep regret for the events that transpired after the student’s passing. He apologised for the university’s response to the protesting students and reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being of all its students, irrespective of nationality. “We deeply value our students and have never caused them harm,” Singh stated.

Singh also condemned the inappropriate remarks made by two university officials, who had expressed derogatory views about Nepal. He described their comments as “extremely irresponsible” and confirmed that both individuals had apologised and been dismissed from their positions. “Although their comments were made in a personal capacity, we do not condone their actions,” he added.

Following Lamsal’s death, Nepali students organised protests calling for an impartial investigation. However, their demonstrations were met with force from campus authorities and security staff.

Her father, Sunil Lamsal, has accused the university of mishandling the situation and treating Nepali students poorly. “I sent my daughter away from home for education, trusting the institution. Now, I rely on the Odisha government and police for justice. My daughter is gone, but I hope no other Nepali student faces the same fate,” he told local media.

Nepali MPs Demand Action on KIIT Student’s Death

Nepali lawmakers have urged the government to take swift action over the suspicious death of KIIT student Prakriti Lamsal.

They called for a thorough investigation and stronger safety assurances for Nepali students in India.