Bhubaneswar: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday issued a statement over the death of Nepali student Prisha Shah at KIIT University in Odisha’s Bhubaneswar.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic demise of a Nepali student of KIIT University, Bhubaneswar. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time. Ministry of External Affairs has been in constant touch with the Odisha State Government since we became aware of the tragic incident. The State Government of Odisha has extended full support to the family of the deceased, and a thorough enquiry is currently being conducted by the Odisha Police…” the MEA said.
“Government of India takes the safety, security and well-being of all international students very seriously. We remain in close contact with the Nepali authorities, the Odisha State Government, as well as KIIT management to ensure real-time communication and coordination in this matter,” it added.
Earlier in the day, Nepal Embassy in India had demanded an impartial and independent probe in the matter.
Taking to X, Nepal Ambassador Dr Shankar Sharma shared a press statement on the tragic death of Nepali student Prisha Sah at KIIT. “We are closely coordinating with Ministry of External Affair, Odisha government, police and the university for a thorough investigation,” he wrote.
Also Read: Nepal Initiates Diplomatic Probe Into Student’s Death In Bhubaneswar, Check KIIT’s Statement
Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba also informed that steps have been initiated through diplomatic channels to probe the death of the 18-year-old Nepali student.
A first-year Computer Science BTech student, Shah was found in a hanging position in her hostel room inside KIIT University campus on Thursday evening, suggesting that she committed suicide. She was immediately rushed to the nearby private medical college where the doctors declared her “brought dead”. Her body was later shifted to AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, for the postmortem, which will be held after the arrival of her family members from Birgunj area in Nepal.
The incident came barely two-and-a-half months after Prakriti Lamsal, another Nepalese student of the same institute, died by suicide on February 16 after allegedly being harassed by a fellow student.
Police, however, have ruled out any foul play in the latest case, and said the student is suspected to have died by suicide.
Meanwhile, KIIT, in a post on X, has urged everyone to refrain from spreading or believing unverified claims. “The matter is currently under police investigation, and KIIT is extending full support to the authorities. In sensitive situations, misinformation can lead to unnecessary distress. Please rely only on official updates from authorised sources,” it added.
NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo also expressed concern over the incident in a post on X. “Yesterday, another Nepali girl student of Odisha’s KIIT University committed suicide. In a similar incident last month, the NHRC investigated and issued its recommendations, pointing to procedural lapses in ensuring the safety of students. However, the University approached the Orissa High Court and the court stayed the recommendations of the Commission. We are taking cognizance of the recent incident,” he added.
