On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, a significant number of Nepalese students raised concerns over returning to the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) campus in Bhubaneswar, following the tragic events that unfolded after the alleged suicide of a 20-year-old student from Nepal. The incident has sparked unease among the Nepalese student community, leading to fears regarding their safety and emotional well-being.
The student, whose identity has not been officially revealed, was found dead under suspicious circumstances earlier this week, leading to an outpouring of grief and anxiety within the Nepalese student body. Many of the deceased student’s peers have expressed deep concerns, both about the tragic event itself and the emotional aftermath that has affected their sense of security on the campus.
Several Nepalese students, speaking privately, shared their worries regarding the situation, saying that they now fear returning to the campus. “This tragic event has shaken us all, and many of us are struggling to cope with the shock,” said one student. “We are anxious about what will happen next, and there’s an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the Nepalese community here.”
In the wake of the incident, the university administration has taken steps to address the concerns of the students. Officials have met with Nepalese student representatives, assuring them of a thorough investigation into the incident and promising support services to help students deal with the emotional strain. However, for many, these assurances have done little to ease the apprehension.
“We understand the emotional distress this event has caused, and we are committed to supporting our international students, including those from Nepal, during this difficult time,” said a university spokesperson. “The safety and well-being of all our students remain our top priority.”
Local authorities have also launched an investigation into the alleged suicide, though no official conclusions have been drawn as of now. As the investigation continues, questions regarding the circumstances surrounding the student’s death remain unanswered, heightening the sense of unease.
The Nepalese Embassy in India has expressed concern over the incident and is in communication with both the local authorities and the university to ensure the safety of its citizens studying abroad. The Embassy has also urged students to reach out for support, emphasizing that they are not alone during this difficult period.
The tragic incident has not only affected the Nepalese student community but has also raised questions about the emotional and psychological support systems in place for international students studying in India. Many students are calling for more robust measures to ensure their mental well-being and to foster a more secure environment.
As the situation continues to unfold, students from Nepal and other international backgrounds are closely watching the developments, hoping for clarity and reassurance from both the university and authorities. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by international students, who are often far from home and navigating an unfamiliar environment while dealing with personal and academic pressures.
