The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) is currently under scrutiny following the death of Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal on February 16, 2025, and subsequent allegations of mistreatment toward other students.
Higher Education Department Minister Suryabanshi Suraj made a statement on Friday regarding the overall KIIT controversy. Ten individuals have been arrested as part of the ongoing probe, and staff of the KIIT university involved in misconduct have been suspended.
A high-level panel constituted by the Odisha government has quizzed several key figures, including Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT University, alongside 13 other authorities of the varsity. The panel is seeking detailed insights into the circumstances surrounding the case. This committee is tasked with conducting evaluations every 15 days at the KIIT campus to assess and report on developments.
The minister assured that all necessary steps are being undertaken to address the issues and maintain educational standards.
Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year B.Tech student from Nepal, was found deceased in her hostel room at KIIT. Preliminary investigations suggest she was subjected to harassment and blackmail by fellow student Advik Srivastava, who was arrested while attempting to leave the state.
