Justice Demanded for Nepalese Student’s Tragic Death at KIIT as Investigation Intensifies
Nepalese Student’s Tragic Death at KIIT Sparks Calls for Justice and Accountability
Bhubaneswar/Kathmandu, February 2025 – The untimely death of 20-year-old Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepalese student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), has sent shockwaves across India and Nepal. Her grieving father, Sunil Lamsal, has called for justice, expressing faith in the Indian authorities to take appropriate action.
Prakriti, a third-year computer science student, reportedly died by suicide on February 16. She had previously lodged complaints of harassment against a fellow student, but no strict action was taken beyond counseling sessions. Her tragic passing has now sparked international attention, with Nepalese officials urging a thorough and impartial investigation.
A Father’s Plea for Justice
Speaking from Kathmandu, Sunil Lamsal emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and familial ties between India and Nepal, often referred to as the “roti-beti ka rishta”. “Since the era of Ramayan, both countries have shared strong bonds,” he told TOI. “I cannot stay in Odisha for the entire investigation, but I trust the Indian government will do what is necessary to ensure justice for my daughter.”
Prakriti had moved from Bhairahawa, a Nepalese town just five kilometers from the Indian border, to pursue her dream of becoming an engineer. She was determined to uplift her family, particularly her nine-year-old brother, whom she deeply cared for. “She wanted to secure a bright future for him, to give him the best education possible,” her father recalled with grief.
Unheeded Warnings: Harassment Complaints Ignored
Despite her aspirations, Prakriti faced troubling incidents at KIIT. Twice, she had raised concerns about harassment by a fellow student. However, instead of strict disciplinary action, the university merely arranged counseling sessions for both parties. “Had the institution taken firm action, my daughter might still be alive today,” Lamsal lamented.
Hours before her death, Prakriti had spoken to her mother, giving no indication of distress. Her sudden passing left the family in shock, and the campus community erupted in protests, demanding accountability. More than 500 students were reportedly asked to vacate their hostels in the wake of the tragedy.
Nepal Steps In: Diplomatic and Legal Support
Nepal’s government swiftly intervened, with the Nepalese embassy in India sending officials to investigate and provide assistance. Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli personally reached out to Prakriti’s family, offering condolences and assurance of diplomatic support. “This is a deeply saddening event, and our government is closely monitoring the case,” he stated.
Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba also contacted Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, demanding an impartial inquiry and legal action against those responsible. Nepal’s National Human Rights Commission has urged its Indian counterpart to ensure that justice prevails.
A Nation Watches, A Family Waits
Prakriti’s death has become a matter of concern beyond borders, highlighting the need for stronger protections for international students in India. As investigations continue, her father clings to hope that Indian authorities will uphold justice.
“We are waiting and watching,” he said. “Nepal is too.”
