Following the tragic death of a third-year Nepali student at Bhubaneswar’s KIIT University, the institution’s sudden decision to remove all Nepali students from the campus has sparked outrage. On Monday, the university ordered all Nepali students to leave immediately, creating confusion and distress among them.
Many students were reportedly taken to Cuttack railway station in university buses and instructed to return home. While some managed to board trains under difficult conditions, others were left stranded in Bhubaneswar without clear instructions on what to do next.
Speaking to OTV, a Nepali student at KIIT University shared his frustration, saying, “It is impossible for all Nepali students to arrange travel on such short notice. The decision left us helpless and under extreme mental stress.”
He also criticized KIIT’s founder, Achyuta Samanta, for mishandling the situation. “He calls us his children, but would a parent force their kids onto the streets?” the student questioned.
Allegations have surfaced that Nepali students were evicted from their hostels without any alternative arrangements. They have denied causing any disturbance on campus, rejecting claims that their presence posed a law and order issue.
In response to the backlash, KIIT University has now invited its international students back. On Tuesday, it released a statement expressing deep regret over the situation. The university announced that two security personnel had been dismissed, while two senior hostel officials and a senior administrative officer from the International Relations Office were suspended.
The university’s apology read, “We are deeply sorry for the unfortunate incident on February 16, 2025. We also regret how some of our staff treated the protesting students. The statements made by two of our officers were highly irresponsible, and they have been removed from their positions. They, too, have apologized.”
KIIT University further emphasized its respect for Nepali students, saying, “We love our students and have never acted against their interests. We apologize for what happened and assure our Nepali students that they are as valued as any other students. We urge them to resume their academic activities immediately.”
