Bhubaneswar, March 6: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated an investigation into the death of a Nepalese student at KIIT University and the alleged use of force against protesting students. A senior team of NHRC officials is set to visit Bhubaneswar to examine the case.
NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo, in a post on X, stated, “A team of very senior officials of @India_NHRC will reach Bhubaneswar today to investigate the incident of death of a Nepali student and alleged brutality against agitating students in a private university.”
The probe follows a complaint filed by the Kalinga Rights Forum, alleging that the student’s death, reported as a suspected suicide on February 16, was not properly addressed by the university administration. Furthermore, Nepalese students protesting the incident claimed they were subjected to assault and mistreatment.
Kanoongo stated, “We received a complaint that a Nepalese student allegedly died by suicide. However, we are yet to determine if it was indeed a suicide. The complainant also alleged that Nepalese students who protested were beaten up. A team has been formed to investigate, and a report will be submitted before March 10.”
The incident has drawn international attention, with Nepal’s NHRC formally requesting its Indian counterpart to ensure a thorough investigation. Joint spokesperson Shyam Babu Kafle confirmed that a letter had been sent to NHRC India, urging a prompt probe into the student’s death and the treatment of Nepalese students at KIIT University.
As the NHRC team begins its inquiry, all eyes are on the university administration and authorities to provide clarity and justice in this deeply concerning case.
