NHRC holds KIIT accountable for Nepalese student’s death

Bhubaneswar: The NHRC has held KIIT deemed to be university accountable for the alleged suicide of a Nepalese student on Feb 16 and has sought an action taken report from Odisha chief secretary on the issue within four weeks.
The commission, in its order on Thursday, noted that the deceased had filed a sexual harassment complaint on March 12, 2024, at KIIT's international relations office (IRO) against a fellow student. But the university authorities reportedly handled the situation inadequately, the commission observed.
"As per the statements of the KIIT's registrar and IRO officials, after receiving the complaint, they further referred it to disciplinary committee officials. The committee did not take necessary steps which are required to be taken, but they disposed of the matter in a very casual manner," the NHRC order stated.
"The conduct of the IRO and university officers/disciplinary committee and college authorities is of gross negligence, which finally resulted in her suicide. It amounts to abetment to commit suicide on the part of the university officials," the order stated while also criticising the university's response to protests by several Nepalese students, who had demanded justice for the victim.
When contacted, a KIIT spokesperson said, "We do not want to comment."
Directing Odisha chief secretary to submit an action taken report within four weeks, the NHRC stated, "The commissioner of police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, is directed to submit updated investigation report. Let the chairman, UGC, New Delhi, consider initiating requisite action against the KIIT University."
Govt said they would comply with the NHRC instructions. "Govt will take steps as per the order of the NHRC. Govt's high-level inquiry is in progress. Those found guilty will not be spared," law minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said.