Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad expresses deep anguish and sorrow over the suicide of yet another Nepali student, Prisha Shah, in the international hostel of KIIT (Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology). This is the second suicide in two months, following the tragic death of student Prakriti in February. These incidents raise serious concerns about student safety, mental health, and administrative accountability within the university. This is not merely an “accident” rather a glaring reflection of institutional failure.
The continued silence and inaction of the Odisha State Government on such incidents is utterly condemnable. This apathy not only reflects irresponsibility but also suggests a possible attempt to shield the university administration and suppress the gravity of such incidents. These repeated deaths of international students are generating immense outrage and distrust, not just within India, but across the global student community. ABVP strongly demands that the Odisha Government treat these incidents with utmost seriousness and immediately suspend the responsible university authorities. ABVP further demands an independent and impartial judicial inquiry into all such suicide cases at KIIT University to uncover the underlying causes and ensure transparency. Additionally, mandatory reforms must be implemented across all universities and colleges to prioritize student safety, mental health, and welfare with immediate effect.
ABVP’s National General Secretary Dr. Virendra Singh Solanki, stated, “ABVP stands in full solidarity with the family of the deceased student and with the Nepali student community. Why is the Odisha Government still silent even after the tragic deaths of two international students? Why has the university administration failed to ensure any accountability? This is not mere negligence, but a case of institutionalized criminal insensitivity. If the government fails to act swiftly and ensure accountability in such highly sensitive matters, it will erode the trust of international students in educational institutions like KIIT. ABVP demands that the Odisha Government immediately initiate a fair investigation, take the strictest action against the guilty, and ensure that all higher educational institutions prioritize the safety and mental well-being of students through concrete and systemic measures.”