Nepal-India Relations
What led to the arrest of a student in connection with a Nepali student's suicide?
Police arrested a third-year mechanical engineering student from Keto University based on prima facie evidence of harassment that authorities believe prompted the Nepali female student to take her own life. Following an investigation, law enforcement confirmed finding evidence of harassment, leading to the student's arrest and subsequent placement in judicial custody. In addition to the student's arrest, police have also detained two university security guards for allegedly manhandling students during the protests that erupted following the suicide. The case has sparked demonstrations both on campus and in Kathmandu over the administration's handling of harassment allegations.
Watch clip answer (00:53m)What led to the protests following the Nepalese student's death at Kalinga Institute in India?
The protests erupted after a female Nepalese student was found dead in her hostel room, allegedly by suicide following harassment by a male student. Students, primarily of Nepalese origin, demonstrated against the university authorities' inaction in addressing the harassment complaints before her death. The incident triggered massive protests both at the Kalinga Institute campus in Odisha and in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital. Police have since arrested the male student accused of harassment and two security guards. The case gained significant attention, prompting intervention from both Indian and Nepalese governments to ensure the safety of Nepalese students at the university.
Watch clip answer (00:50m)What sparked the protests at the university and in Kathmandu?
The protests were triggered by the tragic death of a Nepali female student who was allegedly being harassed by a male student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, India. On February 15, primarily Nepalese students demonstrated against what they claimed was inaction by university authorities against the alleged harasser. An FIR was filed based on the complaint from the deceased girl's cousin, stating she had been subjected to harassment. The incident not only led to campus protests but also sparked massive demonstrations in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, as students demanded accountability and better safety measures from the institution.
Watch clip answer (00:28m)How has Nepal's government responded to ensure the safety of Nepali students following the alleged suicide incident?
Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has taken concrete steps to support affected Nepali students following the incident. The Nepal Embassy in New Delhi dispatched two officers to counsel students, providing immediate psychological support during this crisis. Additionally, the government has made arrangements to ensure students have options for their safety, allowing them to either remain in their hostel accommodations or return to Nepal if they prefer. These measures demonstrate Nepal's proactive approach to protecting its citizens studying abroad while respecting their choices during this difficult situation.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)What happened at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha that sparked protests?
At the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, India, a Nepali student allegedly died by suicide, which triggered massive protests on campus. In response to this tragic incident, police have arrested a student connected to the case, along with two security guards according to the broader context. The death has not only caused unrest at the institute but also led to demonstrations in Kathmandu, Nepal, highlighting concerns about student harassment. This incident has raised important questions about student safety and has strained Nepal-India student relations, with growing calls for justice and better protections for international students.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)How did the university respond to the tragic incident involving a Nepali student?
The university responded by issuing a formal letter from the Vice Chancellor expressing deep regret about the incident. In their statement, the administration emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of all students, with specific mention of Nepali students. This response came amid protests following the suicide of a Nepali student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, where allegations of harassment had surfaced. The university's public acknowledgment demonstrates their recognition of the severity of the situation and the need to address concerns within the Nepali student community.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)