Tue Feb 18 09:22:38 UTC 2025: ## KIIT Student’s Death Sparks Protest, Eviction of Nepali Students

**Bhubaneswar, Odisha, February 17, 2025** – The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha is facing a crisis following the suicide of a Nepali BTech student, Prakriti Lamsal, and subsequent protests and the controversial eviction of dozens of Nepali students from the campus.

Lamsal’s death sparked outrage among Nepali students who allege she was harassed and blackmailed by a male student. Police have arrested a male student, who is suspected of abetting her suicide, and are investigating the claims. The deceased student’s cousin also filed a complaint alleging blackmail.

Following Lamsal’s death, Nepali students staged a protest. However, the university subsequently ordered all Nepali students to leave the campus, leading to accusations of forced eviction. Students reported being forcibly removed from their hostels, with some alleging physical altercations with security personnel. Videos circulating on social media appear to show clashes between students and security guards, though the university has not commented on these claims.

The Nepali students, transported to Cuttack Railway Station in buses, described being left stranded without food or confirmed train tickets. One student, Anil Prasad Yadav, told reporters they were “pushed out” of the hostel. Another, Rajan Gupta, stated that they were protesting for Lamsal and were forcibly evicted.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli confirmed his government is engaging with Indian authorities through diplomatic channels. KIIT, after initially ordering the Nepali students to leave, issued a statement appealing for their return. The university has since reopened and claims to have restored normalcy on campus. However, the incident has raised serious concerns about student safety and the handling of the situation by university authorities. Police have increased their presence on campus to maintain law and order. The investigation into Lamsal’s death continues.

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