KATHMANDU: The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, has announced the establishment of a scholarship fund in memory of Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal, who was found dead in her hostel room on Sunday.
The scholarship fund was established following a meeting between the KIIT leadership and Prakriti’s father, Sunil Lamsal, and her uncle.
KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta made the announcement, expressing condolences and pledging support for Nepali students studying at the institution.
Prakriti’s body was brought to Nepal on Wednesday night and cremated at Swargadwari Ghat. Her tragic death sparked protests by both Nepali and Indian students, demanding a fair investigation and justice.
Following the incident, Nepali students who had staged protests were reportedly mistreated and faced repression. This led to a temporary exodus of Nepali students from the college. However, after diplomatic interventions and assurances of safety, students have started returning to the hostel.
As of Wednesday evening, only 100 out of the 1,180 Nepali students remained in the hostel, but the number is gradually increasing as students return from various cities in India and Nepal.
KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta also spoke with Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, assuring her of the safety and well-being of Nepali students at the institution. Additionally, the college administration held a virtual meeting with the relatives of Nepali students to address their concerns.
The scholarship fund aims to honor Prakriti’s memory and support the education of other deserving Nepali students at KIIT.
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