Nepal student suicide case: 5 arrested after protests at Bhubaneswar university
Nepal student suicide case: 5 arrested after protests at Bhubaneswar university
Digital Desk: Five officials, including three directors and two security guards, were arrested on Tuesday in connection with a student protest at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) over the reported suicide of a Nepali student.
More than 500 Nepali students protested on campus following the incident. The situation deteriorated when university officials attempted to forcibly expel some students from campus, prompting diplomatic intervention.
The arrest follows the release of a police report today detailing an incident in which security guards and university administrators allegedly used force to remove protesting students from campus.
According to authorities, witnesses alleged that the guards verbally and physically assaulted the students, causing injuries.
The arrested individuals include two security guards, Ramakanta Nayak, and Jogendra Behera, as well as three university officials. They are currently facing charges under the applicable portions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Meanwhile, the varsity's Vice-Chancellor has issued an apology.
"KIIT has long welcomed students from all around the world, cultivating an inclusive, respectful, and caring environment. The apology letter states, We deeply regret the recent incident and reaffirm our commitment to the safety, dignity, and well-being of all our students, including our dear Nepali students."
Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year BTech student, was discovered dead in her hostel room on Sunday evening. Her acquaintances alleged that her ex-boyfriend, Advik Srivastava, harassed her, leading her to commit herself. Prakriti's father also accused her ex-boyfriend of "harassing and emotionally blackmailing" his daughter.
The police opened an investigation after receiving a complaint from Prakriti's brother. Advik Srivastava was arrested and accused of abetting suicide under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
More than 500 Nepali students protested on campus following the incident. Tensions rose when the college moved to remove several students, resulting in diplomatic intervention.
On Tuesday, KIIT offered an apology. The college stated that it is "actively persuading" pupils to return to campus. "A dedicated control room is operational 24x7 at KIIT Campus 6 to facilitate the return of Nepali students," according to an announcement.
