Jharsuguda: The tragic suicide of Prakriti Lamsal, a 20-year-old B Tech third-year student from Nepal studying at KIIT in Bhubaneswar, has sparked outrage and demands for justice. Prakriti ended her life in the hostel on February 16, 2025, following continuous harassment, abetment, and blackmail by Advik Srivastava.
Despite filing a complaint with the international relations officers at KIIT, no action was taken. It is alleged that the staff of KIIT mistreated and misbehaved with Nepali students, and the authorities remained silent, taking no steps against the accused.
The incident has shocked the community, leading to widespread anger and sorrow. Residents of OMP Jharsuguda expressed their deep disappointment and shame, emphasizing that this incident contradicts the ideologies of Atithi Devo Bhava and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. They questioned how such an incident could happen in India, a country known for its cultural hospitality and respect for guests.
They pointed out that when similar incidents occur with Indian students abroad, there is widespread protest and anger, yet when it happens to a foreign student in India, a passive attitude is adopted.
The people of OMP Jharsuguda have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister of Odisha through the Collector of Jharsuguda, demanding strict action against the culprits and accountability from the university administration. They emphasized the need for justice and measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The Odisha State Government has been urged to take immediate action to ensure justice for Prakriti and restore faith in the safety and well-being of international students in the state.
