Wed Feb 19 09:08:12 UTC 2025: ## KIIT University Officials Arrested Following Nepali Student’s Suicide and Protest
**Bhubaneswar, Odisha –** Five individuals, including three KIIT University officials and two security guards, have been arrested following the suicide of a 20-year-old Nepali engineering student on Saturday and subsequent protests. The arrests stem from allegations of misconduct and physical assault against Nepali students participating in demonstrations. The accused face charges including causing hurt, wrongful restraint, and obscene acts.
The arrests follow a viral video showing university staff allegedly making insensitive remarks to protesting students, and other videos depicting security personnel allegedly manhandling them. One student from Lucknow has already been arrested in connection with the suicide, accused of blackmailing the deceased student.
The Odisha government has launched a fact-finding committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the suicide, the alleged heavy-handed actions by university authorities, and the reasons behind notices issued to Nepali students to vacate the campus. Higher Education Minister Suryavanshi Suraj stated that legal and administrative actions will be taken based on the committee’s findings.
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely and has noted the Odisha government’s actions. KIIT University has also taken internal disciplinary action against the arrested officials and security personnel. The Odisha Police has assured a thorough and impartial investigation. The incident continues to generate significant public outcry.
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