Tue Feb 18 18:32:21 UTC 2025: ## KIIT Suspends Officials, Apologizes After Nepali Student’s Death Sparks Protests

**Bhubaneswar, India** – The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar has suspended three officials and fired two security guards following protests by Nepali students over the death of a fellow student. The incident, which unfolded after the death of 20-year-old Prakriti Lamsal on Sunday, involved alleged harassment and eviction of Nepali students from the campus.

KIIT issued a public apology on Tuesday, acknowledging insensitive remarks made by some officials during the tense situation. Videos circulating on social media show one official allegedly comparing KIIT’s student expenditure to Nepal’s national budget. The institute stated that these comments were made “in the heat of the moment.”

The protests began after Lamsal, a third-year BTech student, was found dead in her hostel room. Her friends allege she was harassed by her ex-boyfriend, Advik Srivastava, who has been arrested and charged with abetment of suicide. The ensuing protests escalated when KIIT authorities allegedly attempted to forcibly evict Nepali students from the campus, prompting diplomatic intervention from the Nepalese government.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli confirmed the government is addressing the situation through diplomatic channels. Officials from the Nepalese embassy in Delhi are expected to visit KIIT to meet with students.

Prakriti Lamsal’s father, Sunil Lamsal, also accused KIIT of mistreating Nepalese students and demanded justice for his daughter, stating she was harassed and emotionally blackmailed. He further alleges the institute’s actions exacerbated the situation.

In response to the controversy, KIIT has established a 24/7 control room to facilitate the return of Nepali students to the campus. The institute is actively working to persuade the protesting students to return. The suspended officials include two hostel staffers and a senior administrative officer.

Read More