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A Nepalese student’s death at KIIT led to protests and the suspension of three officials.
The UGC has outlined key safety guidelines for institutions for safety and security of students. (Image/Reuters)
In a tragic incident, a B Tech student allegedly died by suicide on Sunday in her hostel at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT). The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police have arrested 21-year-old Advik Srivastava from Lucknow in connection with the incident.
In response to the death, a large group of Nepali students gathered on the KIIT campus on Sunday night, staging a protest to demand justice for the student. In light of the protests, the university issued an apology and announced the suspension of three officials, including two hostel staff members and a security officer, for their alleged misconduct during the demonstration.
As tensions escalated, the Indian Embassy in Nepal intervened, urging Nepali students to return to campus and resume their academic activities. The Embassy also assured a thorough investigation into the death of Prakriti Lamsal, the student who tragically passed away in her hostel on Sunday.
Rights Of Foreign Students In India
Foreign students have the right to study in India, provided they meet the necessary visa requirements. Foreign students wishing to pursue education in India must obtain a Student Visa, which can be issued either directly from Indian Missions abroad or after applying for a provisional student visa upon arrival. However, it is important to note that students cannot convert a tourist visa into a student visa while in India.
Once a foreign student arrives in India, they must register with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if their Student Visa is for more than 180 days. Additionally, foreign students can change courses or institutions with proper approval from the FRRO/FRO, provided there are no issues regarding their conduct.
The duration of the Student Visa is typically up to five years or the length of the course, whichever comes first. Students are also allowed to extend their visa if required, provided they submit the necessary documents to the FRRO. Importantly, students must follow the rules regarding course change, visa extension, and more to ensure they stay compliant with Indian immigration regulations.
UGC’s Guideline For Safety And Security Of Students
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has outlined key safety guidelines for institutions, including physical infrastructure measures to prevent unauthorized access to campus and hostels.
Institutions should have secure boundary walls and entry points manned by security personnel equipped with CCTV cameras, identity verification systems, and metal detectors for bag checks. It is also essential for at least one woman security personnel to be stationed at entry points to facilitate the safety of female students.
Furthermore, biometric attendance systems are recommended for tracking students’ movements both in educational institutions and hostels. This digital mechanism can help mitigate the risk of proxy attendance and monitor students’ whereabouts more effectively.
HEIs are also urged to create a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students. This includes enforcing zero tolerance for discrimination based on caste, religion, nationality, gender, or sexual orientation. Additionally, institutions should establish counselling systems to support students dealing with anxiety, stress, or academic pressures. These systems should involve regular interactions between students, teachers, and parents.
Sexual Harassment Prevention And Support Systems
With rising concerns about sexual harassment and violence against women, the UGC has directed HEIs put in place strong support and prevention mechanisms. Institutions should organize seminars and awareness programs about sexual violence and healthy relationships. Collaboration with student groups to raise awareness and encourage students to speak out when they observe risky situations is essential.
Additionally, universities are required to provide on-campus medical facilities, an ambulance in case of emergencies, and establish a system for online complaint registration. Periodic police briefings and workshops on personal safety, along with defensive measures, should also be part of the safety programs for students.
