KIIT suspends staff after Nepali student's tragic death: Emotional blackmail alleged

Odisha: Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has suspended staff members after the death of a Nepali engineering student, with her father alleging harassment and emotional blackmail. The incident has led to protests on campus, and the Odisha government has formed a fact-finding committee to investigate the case.

Tragic incident

The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar has come under intense scrutiny following the tragic death of a third-year Nepali engineering student on February 16. The student, found hanging in her hostel room, has led to an outpouring of grief and protests from the Nepali student community, who are demanding justice and accountability.

In response to the incident, KIIT has taken immediate disciplinary action, suspending two senior hostel officials and a senior administrative officer from the International Relations Office (IRO). Additionally, two security staff members were terminated. The university issued an official apology, emphasizing its commitment to the safety and well-being of its diverse student body.

Disciplinary action

"We deeply regret the incident that occurred on February 16. We have taken swift action, including suspending the involved staff, and a thorough inquiry is underway," the notice shared on social media stated. The university also emphasized that it remains dedicated to inclusivity, respect, and care for its students.

However, the tragedy has raised serious concerns. The father of the deceased, Sunil Lamsal, revealed that he believes his daughter was “harassed and emotionally blackmailed,” which led to her tragic decision. "We have information that she was harassed and emotionally blackmailed, and this led to her suicide," he told ANI. The post-mortem report is awaited, and the police have already apprehended a suspect in connection with the incident.

Student protests

The KIIT administration has assured students that it is working to restore normalcy on campus, with steps taken to facilitate the return of Nepali students. "A 24/7 control room has been set up to assist students," the statement read, encouraging students who left campus in the wake of the incident to return and continue their academic activities.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government has formed a high-level fact-finding committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the student’s death. The committee is expected to make recommendations, with further action pending based on its findings. This development has heightened the urgency to address concerns over student safety and well-being on campus.

As the investigation continues, KIIT's handling of the matter, particularly the emotional and social factors leading to the student's tragic death, remains under close scrutiny. The situation has brought attention to the need for improved support systems for students facing mental health struggles and interpersonal issues.