KIIT University row: Students question silence of founder and former BJD MP Achyuta Samanta

The tragic death of a Nepali student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar has ignited protests extending from Odisha to Nepal, as demands for justice mount. Students from across the world are currently demanding justice for Prakriti. However, the protesting students are apprehensive of the alleged silence of the KIIT founder and former BJD MP Achyuta Samanta.

Though the incident has sparked significant concern and anger among the student community with students at the university vociferously protesting for the last three days, Achyuta Samanta is yet to make a public statement on the matter.

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With no official statement from Samanta himself, Nepali students at KIIT are reportedly feeling apprehensive. It remains a concern for them that even three days after the tragic incident, there has been a notable absence of communication from the university's leadership, with only limited action being taken against a few staff members.

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In a bid for justice, the student body organised a candlelight vigil and peaceful march, holding signs and placards. Frustration has also led a faction of the students to damage the ‘I Love KIIT’ installation on campus, indicating the depth of their grievances.

Students continue to urge university authorities to address the issue transparently and ensure accountability for the tragic incident. Throughout the growing controversy, Samanta's silence continues to attract criticism, as many seek clarity and assurance.

However, the Registrar of the University has already issued an apology for the incident and urged Nepali students to return to campus. Besides, the Odisha Chief Minister has urged Nepali students to return to campus and continue their studies while assuring students of bringing normalcy to the KIIT University campus.