KATHMANDU: The body of Prakriti Lamsal, who was found dead at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, is set to be brought to Nepal today.
The repatriation is being carried out in coordination with the Nepali Embassy in India, local authorities, security personnel, and the university administration. Family sources have confirmed that the body will arrive in Nepal by Wednesday evening.
Prakriti’s father, Sunil Lamsal, traveled to Bhubaneswar early Tuesday morning to facilitate the process. The 2o-year-old student from Butwal was discovered dead in her hostel room last Sunday, sparking widespread outrage and protests among Nepali students. Alleging foul play and demanding justice, the students began demonstrations on Sunday evening, accusing the university administration of negligence.
However, instead of addressing their concerns, the university allegedly responded with force. Protesters reported instances of mistreatment, and hundreds of Nepali students were forcibly expelled from their hostels.
In the aftermath, nearly a thousand students have fled to different cities in India, while some have already returned to Nepal. The university’s handling of the situation has drawn sharp criticism from both Nepal and India, forcing its administration to issue a formal apology.
Indian police have taken nine individuals into custody in connection with the case, five of whom were later released on bail for Rs 20,000 each.
Among those still in custody is Advik Srivastava, a fellow student accused of harassing and blackmailing Prakriti. Authorities have initiated an investigation into allegations that Srivastava had repeatedly harassed and threatened her.
Reports indicate that Prakriti had previously lodged a complaint against him, presenting evidence of persistent mental and emotional distress. However, university officials failed to take appropriate action, raising concerns about institutional negligence in ensuring student safety.
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