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KIIT Student’s Death Sparks Outrage; Odisha Government Forms Probe Panel



Bhubaneswar, February 18, 2025 – The tragic death of a Nepali student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has led to widespread unrest, prompting the Odisha government to form a probe panel to investigate the matter. The deceased, identified as Prakriti Lamsal, was a third-year BTech (Computer Science) student. She was found dead in her hostel room on Sunday afternoon, with preliminary reports suggesting suicide.

Family Receives Body After Autopsy

Following an autopsy at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, the authorities handed over Prakriti’s body to her father, Sunil Lamsal, who had traveled from Nepal along with friends to collect his daughter’s remains. Expressing his grief, Sunil stated that the family planned to take the body back to Nepal for the final rites.

The incident has ignited tensions on campus, with students demanding a thorough investigation. The news of her death triggered strong reactions from students and the general public, leading to protests that soon escalated.

Police Take Action Amid Rising Tensions

To maintain order, Odisha police deployed security personnel at the university. The situation intensified when video footage surfaced online showing security guards assaulting students protesting against the alleged mishandling of the incident. In response, police registered two cases—one concerning Prakriti’s death and another regarding the security personnel’s actions.

Two security guards, identified as Ramakanta Nayak (45) and another individual, were arrested for allegedly using force against students. They now face legal charges under Sections 126 (2) (wrongful restraint), 296 (obscene acts), and 115 (joint criminal liability) of the BNS. Officials stated that the guards were caught on camera physically abusing students who voiced their concerns over the case.

Political and Social Backlash

As news of the incident spread, it sparked a statewide outcry, with student organizations and political leaders raising concerns over campus safety and the administration’s response. The matter was even brought up in the Odisha Assembly, urging authorities to ensure justice for the deceased.

In response to growing pressure, the Odisha government formed a special probe panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding Prakriti’s death, as well as the alleged security violations on campus. Officials assured that the investigation would be conducted transparently and that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of negligence or misconduct.

Students Demand Safer Campus Environment

Students at KIIT have voiced their concerns about mental health support, campus safety, and the behavior of security personnel. Many believe that a more robust support system could prevent such tragedies in the future. Some students have called for stricter regulations and accountability within the institution to ensure the safety and well-being of its students.

As investigations continue, the KIIT administration has yet to release an official statement addressing the allegations. Meanwhile, students and activists remain steadfast in their demand for justice, hoping this tragedy will lead to lasting changes in student welfare policies.

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