NHRC Orders Immediate Probe Into Nepali Student’s Alleged Suicide at KIIT University

New Delhi : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has ordered an on-spot inquiry into the alleged suicide of Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal at the Bhubaneswar-based KIIT University in Odisha. Taking serious note of the matter, the Commission has directed the Registrar (Law) and two other officers from its Investigation Department to visit the university, gather relevant information, and submit a comprehensive report by the 10th of this month.

Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepali national pursuing her studies at KIIT University, allegedly took her own life on the night of the 16th of last month. Reports suggest that she had been facing harassment within the university, and her repeated complaints to the authorities went unheard, ultimately leading to the tragic incident. Her family and student groups have raised concerns over the alleged negligence of the university administration in addressing her grievances.

The NHRC’s intervention came after various student organizations and activists demanded justice for Prakriti, calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to her suicide. Allegations have surfaced that she was subjected to mental distress, possibly due to academic or personal pressures exacerbated by a lack of institutional support.

In response to the NHRC’s directive, the university administration has maintained that it has always prioritized student welfare and has promised full cooperation with the investigation. Meanwhile, Prakriti’s family and representatives from the Nepali Embassy in India have urged for a transparent and fair probe to ensure that those responsible for any lapses in handling her complaints are held accountable.

The incident has also sparked a debate on student safety and mental health support in universities across India. Experts believe that educational institutions must strengthen their grievance redressal mechanisms and provide robust psychological support systems to prevent such tragedies. The NHRC‘s probe will likely focus on whether the university had adequate measures in place to address student complaints and whether any lapses contributed to Prakriti’s distress.

As the investigation progresses, students and activists continue to seek justice, emphasizing the need for stricter policies to prevent harassment and ensure a safe learning environment for all students, including international ones.