The investigation into the tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal, a 20-year-old third-year B.Tech student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, continues to unfold with significant developments. On February 16, 2025, Prakriti was found dead in her hostel room, sparking protests and raising questions about student safety and institutional responsibility.
The Odisha police have arrested several individuals linked to the case. Advik Srivastava, a fellow student, was the first to be arrested on February 17, 2025, on charges of harassment and blackmail. Investigations revealed that Advik had allegedly been blackmailing Prakriti with personal photos following the end of their relationship, contributing to her emotional distress.
In a further turn of events, five more individuals associated with KIIT University were taken into custody, including Director General Shibananda Mishra, Director of Administration Pratap Kumar Champati, Hostel Director Sudhir Kumar Rath, and security guards Ramakanta Nayak and Jogendra Behera. They are facing allegations of negligence and failure to respond appropriately to Prakriti’s complaints.
The Odisha Higher Education Department has summoned KIIT’s founder, Achyuta Samanta, for discussions on the university’s handling of the incident. A high-level fact-finding committee has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding Prakriti’s death and the administrative actions that followed.
Diplomatic channels have been actively engaged, with the Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi working closely with Indian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. Representatives from the embassy have met with Prakriti’s family, KIIT officials, and the Nepali student community to offer support and monitor the case’s progress. The Nepalese government has expressed concern, emphasizing the need for justice and the safety of Nepali students in India.
Background of the Case:
Prakriti Lamsal hailed from Siddharthanagar, Bhairahawa, Nepal, and was pursuing her B.Tech degree at KIIT University. Her untimely death on February 16, 2025, shocked her peers and the Nepali community. Initial reports suggest that she was subjected to harassment and blackmail by Advik Srivastava after their relationship ended. Despite reportedly approaching university authorities for help, no substantial action was taken, leading to questions about institutional negligence.
Following her death, KIIT administration issued suspension notices to over 500 Nepali students, instructing them to leave campus. This action triggered widespread protests, with Nepali students alleging mistreatment and insensitivity. The university later reversed the suspension orders amidst growing criticism and media attention.
The incident has sparked debates about student safety, harassment policies, and the accountability of educational institutions in India. It has also prompted diplomatic engagements between Nepal and India, highlighting concerns about the well-being of international students.
Public Outcry and Demands for Justice:
Prakriti’s death has ignited protests not only on the KIIT campus but also in Nepal, with demonstrations demanding justice and accountability. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #JusticeForPrakriti have gained momentum, calling for a transparent investigation and stricter measures against harassment in educational institutions.
The case has also drawn political attention, with leaders from both Nepal and India urging a fair and unbiased investigation. The Odisha State Government has assured full cooperation, while the Nepalese Parliament has discussed the incident, emphasizing the safety of Nepali students abroad.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings:
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with Advik Srivastava facing charges of harassment and blackmail. The other arrested individuals are being investigated for negligence and potential complicity. The fact-finding committee is expected to submit its report soon, which will likely play a crucial role in determining accountability.
As the investigation continues, the international student community watches closely, hoping for justice and improved safety measures. This tragic incident has not only shaken the KIIT campus but also raised broader questions about student welfare and institutional responsibility in educational environments.
Conclusion:
The death of Prakriti Lamsal is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of safety, support systems, and accountability in educational institutions. As the case unfolds, it underscores the need for effective grievance redressal mechanisms to protect students from harassment and mental distress. The investigation’s outcome will be pivotal, not just for Prakriti’s family but also for the international student community seeking justice and a safer academic environment.
This is an ongoing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more details emerge.
( With inputs from Indian news outlets )
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