Tue Feb 18 17:42:06 UTC 2025: ## Odisha Government Intervenes After Nepali Students Expelled From KIIT University Following Student Death

**Bhubaneswar, Odisha, February 18, 2025** – The Odisha government has launched an investigation and taken action following the expulsion of numerous Nepali students from the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar. The crisis began after the alleged suicide of a Nepali female student, reportedly due to relationship problems. This led to a mass eviction of Nepali students, sparking outrage and protests, including a candlelight march on Tuesday.

The state government, under Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, has ordered KIIT to locate and counsel the displaced students, facilitating their return to campus. A high-level committee, headed by the Home Secretary, will investigate the suicide, the alleged heavy-handed actions of university authorities, and the targeted expulsion of Nepali students. Over 800 Nepali students remain scattered across Odisha and beyond, with some already heading back to Nepal. While 100 have returned to the campus by Tuesday evening, the government is demanding hourly updates from KIIT authorities.

State Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj questioned the university’s actions, highlighting the lack of consultation with the Higher Education Department and the targeted nature of the expulsion. He confirmed that some KIIT officials have been suspended for their conduct. Reports indicate many students were forced to travel in general train compartments without tickets.

KIIT issued an apology, claiming regret for the actions of certain officials who have since been dismissed, and professing their love for their students. However, a statement claiming the university’s expenditure on student welfare exceeded Nepal’s national budget further inflamed tensions.

The incident has caused a major uproar in the Odisha Assembly, with demands for the arrest of KIIT founder Achyut Samant and disciplinary action against the institute. The father of the deceased student has appealed for justice, emphasizing that no other parents should suffer a similar loss. Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has sent two embassy officials to Odisha to address the situation. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the full extent of KIIT’s responsibility and ensure the safety and well-being of its Nepali students.

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