Nepali girl student's death at KIIT University: NHRC asks Odisha Chief Secretary to submit action taken report

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a detailed response from the Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja regarding the death of a Nepali student of KIIT University, which had triggered widespread controversy earlier this year.

In a notice issued to the Odisha government, the NHRC has asked the Chief Secretary to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks. The Commission’s direction comes in connection with the death of a girl student from Nepal, who died on February 16, leading to public outcry and allegations from various quarters.

According to sources, the NHRC issued the letter on November 11 and directed the Chief Secretary to submit the ATR within 15 days of receiving the letter.

As per the NHRC communication, the state government must clarify the steps taken during the investigation, including the measures adopted to ensure transparency and accountability in handling the case.

The incident had sparked protests and discussions both within Odisha and in Nepal, with demands for a fair probe into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.

Several Nepali students of KIIT were allegedly forced to leave the campus during the protest, even though their examinations were going on. Several students also alleged that they were subjected to physical harassment by the university staff.

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After a widespread protest, the Higher Education Department formed a committee to investigate the matter. However, the investigation report of the committee is yet to be made public.