The tragic death of a 20-year-old Nepalese student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha has sparked diplomatic concerns, with the Nepal government urging stringent action against the institute’s staff. The incident has led to widespread protests and allegations of mistreatment against Nepalese students, prompting intervention at the highest levels of government.
Nepal Foreign Minister Urges Permanent Removal of Staff
Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, recently spoke with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, emphasizing the need for a fair investigation into the student’s death. She urged the removal of staff members who allegedly misbehaved with Nepalese students. In an official statement on X (formerly Twitter), she reiterated her stance that such individuals should not only be suspended temporarily but removed permanently to ensure a safe educational environment.
Odisha Government’s Response
The Odisha government has assured its commitment to justice and student welfare. CM Majhi affirmed that Nepalese students in Odisha are respected and valued. The Chief Minister also stated that a high-level investigation committee has been formed to ensure accountability and action against those responsible. Furthermore, he reassured Dr. Deuba that necessary steps are being taken to maintain a secure academic environment.
Embassy Involvement and Investigations
Diplomatic staff from the Nepal Embassy in New Delhi have been actively monitoring the situation. Nepalese Embassy officials Sanjeev Das Sharma and Naveen Raj Adhikari met with CM Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan, where they were briefed on the developments, including the arrest of 10 individuals in connection with the attack on Nepalese students. The officials expressed satisfaction with the Odisha government’s response and pledged to continue working closely with authorities.
Allegations of Racial Discrimination
The incident has also triggered political reactions. Congress leader Bijay Patnaik alleged racial discrimination, pointing out that only Nepalese students were evicted from the campus during the unrest. He demanded immediate intervention from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the central government, suggesting a review of KIIT’s ‘Deemed to be University’ status.
Protests and Political Reactions
Student and youth activists from Congress held demonstrations outside KIIT, demanding the arrest of the institute’s founder, Achyuta Samanta. The protests led to clashes with security personnel as activists attempted to enter the campus. The Congress party has called for the establishment of a special cell for foreign students to prevent such incidents in the future.
Next Steps and Government Assurance
Odisha’s Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj has reiterated the government’s dedication to delivering justice. The high-level investigation committee has already recorded statements from eight senior KIIT functionaries, including its founder. The findings of the committee are expected to shape future actions and policy changes regarding the safety of international students.
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Conclusion
The unfortunate incident at KIIT has raised serious concerns about the safety and treatment of international students in India. With the Nepal government pressing for accountability and the Odisha government promising justice, all eyes are on the investigation’s outcome. Ensuring a secure academic environment remains paramount in maintaining India’s reputation as a global educational hub.
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