NHRC Orders On-Spot Inquiry into Nepalese Student's Death at KIIT University, Report Due by March 10

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed an immediate on-spot inquiry into the tragic death of 20-year-old Nepalese student Prakriti Lamsal at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The commission instructed its officials to submit a comprehensive inquiry report by March 10, 2025.

Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year Computer Science student from Nepal, was allegedly found dead by suicide in her university hostel room on February 16, prompting widespread outrage and demands for justice.

NHRC Orders Detailed Investigation​

Taking swift cognizance of a complaint filed by Ashutosh B, the NHRC emphasized the seriousness of the incident and mandated the Registrar (Law) to conduct a thorough investigation in compliance with the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

According to the NHRC’s official directive:

"Considering the seriousness of the matter, the commission directs the Registrar (Law) to proceed for an inquiry in KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, along with a team consisting of two officers from the investigation division—one not below the rank of SSP—and one officer from the Law Division, and submit its inquiry report to the Commission by March 10, 2025."

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Harassment Allegations Highlighted by Complainant​

In the complaint to the NHRC, Ashutosh alleged that Prakriti had faced persistent harassment from her ex-boyfriend. Despite raising her concerns, the International Relations Office (IRO) of KIIT University allegedly ignored her complaints, ultimately contributing to her decision to end her life.

The petitioner further accused KIIT officials and security guards of physically assaulting, verbally abusing, and threatening Nepalese students who protested, seeking justice for Prakriti.

Arrests and Allegations of Assault at KIIT​

In response to the tragic incident and subsequent protests, Odisha Police arrested an engineering student from KIIT University on charges of abetment to suicide. The accused has been under judicial custody since February 17.

Additionally, ten KIIT employees were arrested for physically assaulting, verbally abusing, and evicting Nepalese students protesting on campus for justice in Prakriti’s case.

Apology and Assurance from KIIT Authorities​

Facing mounting criticism and public outrage, KIIT authorities tendered an official apology. Both KIIT and the Odisha state government have called on Nepalese students to resume their studies, assuring them complete safety and dignity on campus.

Odisha Government Forms High-Level Probe Committee​

To ensure transparency and accountability, the Odisha government constituted a high-level committee to investigate the incident further.

Earlier, the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal had also approached its Indian counterpart, urging for a detailed investigation and necessary action in the matter.