The death of an 18-year-old Nepalese student at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha has raised serious questions, with police investigating all possible angles. Found dead in her hostel room on Thursday evening, the student is suspected to have died by suicide, though the reasons remain unclear. Her sudden death has prompted a detailed probe and diplomatic communication between India and Nepal.
The student, originally from Birgunj in Nepal, was pursuing a degree in computer science. According to police, she had spoken with her father just hours before she was found unresponsive, and there were no signs of distress during their conversation. She had planned to return home on May 18 after her exams. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and her mobile phone, laptop, and online chats will be examined for possible clues.
“We are examining her electronic devices and communications thoroughly. Nothing has been ruled out,” a senior police officer said. The Odisha government has extended full support to the family, and the Ministry of External Affairs has expressed condolences while confirming cooperation with Nepalese authorities.
Previous Incident Casts Shadow on Campus
This tragedy comes less than three months after another Nepalese student at KIIT died by suicide following alleged blackmail and racial harassment. The earlier case triggered widespread outrage when over 1,000 Nepali students were asked to vacate the campus and authorities were accused of mishandling the situation. Police had arrested the accused student, and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) later blamed the university for failing to protect the victim.
In the aftermath of that incident, the NHRC noted institutional negligence and violation of the student’s right to dignity. It held the university responsible for enabling a hostile environment. The current case has revived those concerns, prompting the NHRC to issue fresh notices to the Odisha Chief Secretary and police chief, demanding an investigation report by May 9.
Nepal Seeks Answers, India Promises Accountability
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba confirmed that her government is in talks with Indian authorities to ensure accountability. She described the student’s death as deeply saddening and emphasized the need for a transparent inquiry. Meanwhile, India’s higher education regulator has initiated a review of student safety policies and mental health services across institutions, with a report due in 10 days.
