KATHMANDU, Feb 21: India has reiterated its commitment to the safety of foreign students including Nepalis, emphasizing that their well-being remains a top priority.
Addressing a press conference organized at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi on Friday, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaisawal highlighted the significance of Nepali students in strengthening ties between India and Nepal. He assured that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure their safety and welfare.
This comes in the wake of the death of Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal, who was found dead in the KIIT University hostel. She allegedly committed suicide following constant mental tourtute and physical asssaults by a fellow student. The university administration allegedly did not respond to the repeated complaint filed by Lamsal, which forced her to take the extreme measure.
Amid protests by Nepali students demanding a fair investigation into the incident, they were reportedly assaulted and forcefully evicted from the university, leaving many stranded at local train stations. Several of the protesting students—most of whom have since returned to Nepal—expressed concerns about their safety and well-being, alleging that both teaching and non-teaching staff were involved in the assaults.
Expressing condolences over the incident involving Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal in Odisha, Jaiswal affirmed that strict legal action would be taken against those responsible. “The Indian government accords high priority to the safety, security and well being of all international students in the country. The MEA has been in constant touch with the Odisha government and the KIIT management since the incident came into light. We have also maintained close contact with Nepalese authorities,” he said.
Jaisawal also said that they are in constant communication with the local government, police, and Nepali authorities. He added that the several arrests including the main accused have already been made. “The Indian government will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of Nepali students,” he added.