Odisha: KIIT Varsity Suspends 2 Staff Members Over Misconduct Allegations Amid Nepali Student Protests

The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar has taken measures following allegations of misconduct by its staff members during protests over the death of a 20-year-old Nepali student.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, has provoked widespread outrage within the university community and beyond.

KIIT acted after a video went viral showing two staff members misbehaving with Nepali students.

In response, the university has issued an apology and confirmed the suspension of three officials, including two hostel staff and a security officer, who were accused of misconduct during the protests.

"We are extremely appalled by the untoward incident that took place on our campus on the evening of 16th February 2025. We are also regretful of the way some of us behaved with the agitating students. We love our students and have never done any disservice to them. The comments made by two of our officers are extremely irresponsible. Although the comments were made in their personal capacity in the heat of the moment, we do not support their actions," KIIT stated in an official announcement.

The university administration expressed deep regret over the incident, and added that it did not align with its values of inclusivity and respect for all students.

"We have removed them from service. They too have apologised for their behaviour. We too apologise for all that has happened and hereby extend our love and affection to all the students and people of Nepal. We love them as much as we love the people of India and the people of the world. Additionally, we are once again appealing to our Nepali students to resume their regular academic activities immediately," the institute added.