KIIT University row: Appropriate steps will be taken in accordance with law, says Odisha Minister

Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan vowed on Friday that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing related to alleged issues at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar will face appropriate action. He said this reacting to NHRC fixing responsibility with the varsity.

Also Read: NHRC holds KIIT University responsible for Nepali girl student’s death; seeks action report in 4 weeks

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has pinned responsibility on KIIT University regarding the unfortunate demise of a Nepali girl student in her hostel room. Responding to this development, the Minister asserted that the government will implement all necessary legal actions in connection with the suspicious death followed by student unrest.

Allegedly, KIIT authorities wrongly handled both situations bringing disgrace to the State.

Harichandan confirmed, “All measures demanded by the legal framework will be executed. We will address any culpability as guided by law.” The Minister also highlighted that the State government would adhere to directives issued by the human rights body.

There will be no loopholes of law: Minister

“As the death incident relates to a student from outside the country, which is also a very sensitive one, appropriate steps will be taken against the varsity based on the findings and as per the directives of NHRC. We have said from the beginning, no loopholes of law will be there if any incident has occurred at all,” the Law Minister expressed to the media.

“If anyone is found guilty, whoever he/she may be, will certainly be brought to justice and this Government will not spare anyone and will proceed accordingly,” Harichandan said.

Worth mentioning, the NHRC has held KIIT University responsible for the death of a Nepali girl student, citing negligence by the university authorities. The NHRC has also directed Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja to submit an action taken report within four weeks.

Must Read: Nepali student death: NHRC recommends UGC to initiate action against KIIT University

An NHRC team previously probed the incident that left Odisha red-faced, between March 6 and 8. Their findings indicate that the university's International Relations Officer (IRO), disciplinary committee and a few others failed to ensure the safety of students.

OTV had tried to get a response from the KIIT authorities regarding the NHRC’s directive. However, it was not possible to establish any communication with them.