University response
What led to the protests at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Odisha, India?
The protests erupted following the suicide of a female Nepali student who was found dead in her women's hostel room on February 15th. Students, primarily of Nepalese origin, took to the streets claiming that the university authorities failed to act against an alleged harasser despite previous complaints being filed. The situation escalated when police arrested a student in connection with the suicide, along with two university security guards. The protesters accused the university of negligence in addressing harassment complaints, which they believe ultimately led to the tragic death of their fellow student.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)What sparked the massive protests at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology?
The protests erupted following the death of a female Nepalese student who was found dead in her room at the women's hostel. On February 15, students, primarily of Nepalese origin, organized demonstrations alleging inaction by university authorities against a reported harasser. The protesters claimed that the university failed to take appropriate action on previous harassment complaints against a male student, which they believe contributed to the tragic incident. This situation has escalated into significant demonstrations both locally and in Kathmandu.
Watch clip answer (00:23m)How did the university respond to the suicide of the Nepali student?
The university, through its Vice Chancellor, issued a letter expressing deep regret about the incident involving the Nepali student's suicide. In their statement, the administration reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all students, specifically mentioning their Nepali students. Beyond official statements, concrete action was taken as authorities arrested a student based on prima facie evidence of harassment related to the incident. This response came amid protests and allegations of inadequate university handling of harassment issues that reportedly led to the tragic suicide.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)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)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)