Wed Feb 19 09:58:43 UTC 2025: ## KIIT University Apologizes After Nepali Student’s Suicide Sparks International Incident
**Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India** – Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) University is facing intense scrutiny following the suicide of a 20-year-old Nepali female student and the subsequent mishandling of protests by Nepali students. The incident has escalated into an international controversy, prompting apologies, arrests, and the formation of a high-level investigation committee.
The female student, a third-year BTech student, allegedly died by suicide on Sunday, February 16th, after alleged harassment by a male classmate, who has been arrested and charged with abetment of suicide.
However, the situation deteriorated sharply when university authorities responded to the subsequent protests by Nepali students with what many perceive as excessive force. Videos circulated on social media appeared to show security personnel using force against the protesting students, and university officials allegedly made insensitive remarks comparing the university’s resources to Nepal’s GDP. Three university employees and two security personnel were subsequently suspended or removed from their positions. The university’s director general and director of administration were also arrested but later released on bail.
The Odisha state government has responded swiftly, forming a high-level committee to investigate the allegations of misconduct against students. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been formed to probe the university’s actions and the reasons behind a controversial order that effectively closed the university to Nepali students. The Indian Embassy in Nepal has also confirmed its involvement, stating that it is working with the Odisha government to ensure the well-being of Nepali students in India.
The incident sparked outrage in Nepal, prompting intervention from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu released a statement expressing sadness over the student’s death and highlighting KIIT’s appeal for Nepali students to return to campus.
KIIT University issued a public apology on Tuesday, expressing regret for the behaviour of its staff and assuring that appropriate action would be taken. The university has appealed to the approximately 900 Nepali students studying there to resume their studies. However, many Nepali students remain apprehensive due to the ongoing investigation. The controversy continues to dominate Odisha’s legislative assembly, with political parties engaging in heated debate over the incident and its implications for India-Nepal relations.
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