If KIIT University is found responsible for the deaths of the two Nepalese students—Prakriti Lamsal (February 2025) and Prisha Sah (May 2025)—on its campus, the institution could face severe legal, financial, diplomatic, and reputational consequences. Here’s a breakdown of the potential repercussions based on the ongoing investigations and reactions from authorities:
1. Legal and Criminal Consequences
- Criminal Charges Against University Officials: If negligence or failure to address harassment complaints is proven, KIIT administrators, security personnel, or staff could face charges under Indian penal laws, including abetment of suicide (Section 306 IPC) or criminal negligence .
- Arrests and Prosecutions: Already, 10 KIIT employees were arrested earlier for assaulting Nepali students during protests, and the accused in Prakriti’s case (Advik Srivastava) is in custody . Further arrests may follow.
- Human Rights Violations: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to Odisha authorities, demanding accountability .
2. Financial and Regulatory Penalties
- Loss of Accreditation: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has formed a fact-finding committee, and if KIIT is found negligent, it risks losing its "Deemed University" status or facing sanctions .
- Compensation Payouts: The families of the deceased may sue for damages, and Odisha’s government could impose hefty fines .
- Scholarship & Funding Cuts: The Indian government may revoke grants or scholarships tied to international student programs .
3. Diplomatic Fallout with Nepal
- Strained India-Nepal Relations: Nepal’s government has activated diplomatic channels, demanding justice. If KIIT is deemed culpable, Nepal may impose stricter regulations on students studying in India, including mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) or blacklisting KIIT .
- Embassy-Led Boycotts:The Nepali Embassy is already coordinating with Indian authorities, and further deaths could lead to official advisories against studying at KIIT .
4. Reputational Damage & Enrollment Decline
- Loss of International Students: With Nepal contributing 28% of India’s foreign students, a boycott could devastate KIIT’s revenue . Many Nepali students have already left, and domestic universities in Nepal are offering transfers .
- Media & Public Backlash: The university’s initial mishandling (e.g., forcibly evicting Nepali students) has drawn widespread condemnation, harming its brand .
5. Institutional Reforms & Oversight
- Mandatory Safety Measures: Odisha’s government may enforce stricter mental health support, anti-harassment cells, and 24/7 embassy helplines for foreign students .
- Increased Government Scrutiny: KIIT could face ongoing audits and external monitoring to prevent future incidents .
Conclusion
If held responsible, KIIT could face a multi-faceted crisis—legal prosecutions, financial losses, diplomatic isolation, and a tarnished global reputation. The Odisha government has vowed "stern action," and Nepal’s continued pressure ensures this case will shape policies on international student welfare in India .
For further details, refer to the latest reports from [The Hindu](https://www.thehindu.com), [Kathmandu Post](https://kathmandupost.com), and [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com).
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