New Delhi [India]: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep sorrow on Friday over the tragic death of a 20-year-old Nepali student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) University in Odisha. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal extended condolences and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all international students in India.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of the Nepali student at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology and convey our heartfelt condolences. The Government of India accords high priority to the safety, security, and well-being of all international students in the country. The MEA has been in constant touch with the Odisha government and KIIT authorities since the matter and this situation came to light,” Jaiswal stated during a media briefing in Delhi.
Government Response and Legal Actions
Jaiswal emphasized that the Indian government has been in close communication with Nepalese authorities and has taken coordinated steps with the Odisha government and KIIT administration.
“We have also maintained close contact with the Nepalese authorities. We have taken several steps with the Odisha government along with the KIIT institutions. The Odisha government has made several arrests of the accused. Cases have been filed. The government of Odisha has also made a high-level fact-finding committee with which appropriate legal and administrative action will be taken going forward,” he added.
Furthermore, the Odisha government is facilitating the safe return of Nepali students and ensuring their security and participation in academic activities. The Odisha police, in collaboration with local authorities in Bhubaneswar, have set up a 24/7 helpline for Nepali students.
Commitment to Nepali Students’ Safety
“Nepali students studying in India form an important facet of the enduring People-to-People ties, links that we share with Nepal. The Government of India will take all necessary actions and steps to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all Nepali students in India,” Jaiswal reiterated.
Background of the Incident
The third-year B.Tech student was found dead in her hostel room on February 16, prompting protests from Nepali students who alleged that a fellow student had harassed her and that the college had failed to act despite multiple complaints.
Following an investigation, the police arrested the accused, identified as Advik Srivastava, on February 17. He was sent to judicial custody the same day, according to a statement by the Police Commissionerate of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack.