In a shocking revelation, Odisha Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj informed the State Assembly that the Nepali girl student of KIIT University, who was recently found dead, had lodged a sexual harassment complaint with the university authorities 11 months prior to her death.
The Minister made this statement while responding to queries raised by legislators over the mysterious death of the foreign student on the university campus. He stated that the deceased student had approached the university’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) with the allegations of sexual harassment.
“The girl had submitted a written complaint to the university 11 months ago. The university had conducted an inquiry into the matter,” Suraj added, though he did not disclose the outcome of the inquiry or the action taken.
The revelation has sparked demands from opposition parties and student bodies for a high-level investigation into the incident. Many questioned whether the harassment complaint was handled properly and if there was any link between the harassment case and the student’s untimely death.
The foreign student from Nepal was found dead inside her hostel room at KIIT University earlier this month. While police termed it an apparent case of suicide, the latest disclosure has raised suspicions of foul play and possible institutional failure in protecting the student.
Minister Suraj assured the House that the government would examine the case thoroughly and ensure justice is served. “All aspects, including the sexual harassment complaint, will be investigated,” he said.
The tragic case has reignited conversations about campus safety, protection of international students, and accountability of educational institutions in Odisha.
