The ABVP Response to the Tragic Death of Nepali Student in Odisha: A Coordinated Effort for Student Protection and Support

KKN Gurugram Desk | In the wake of the tragic suicide of 20-year-old Nepali student Prakriti Lamsal at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) University in Odisha, tensions quickly escalated, leading to both local and international attention. What started as a heartbreaking event soon spiraled into a larger issue, with various student bodies, government officials, and diplomatic channels getting involved. A central figure in the response to this crisis was the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which took proactive steps to protect Nepali students and demand justice.

ABVP’s Immediate Response: A Clear Strategy

As the situation unfolded, ABVP’s strategy was clear and decisive. According to sources within the organization, the main objective was to ensure the safety and well-being of Nepali students in Odisha while positioning themselves as a force for justice and protection. The ABVP had a three-fold plan of action:

1. Provide Immediate Support to Nepali Students: The first step was to offer direct assistance to the Nepali student community in Odisha. Many students were understandably shaken by the incident, and some faced difficulties in staying at their respective campuses. ABVP’s efforts focused on providing safe spaces and offering help to those in distress.

2. Demand Action Against Perpetrators: ABVP made it clear that they would not remain silent in the face of any wrongdoing. The organization began calling for swift legal action against the individuals or institutions responsible for the circumstances surrounding Lamsal’s tragic death.

3. Initiate Protests Across the State: The third aspect of their response was to organize protests to raise awareness about the issue. Protests spread across Odisha, with ABVP members calling for justice and highlighting the challenges faced by Nepali students studying in the state.

By Monday afternoon, ABVP had already executed these three objectives. The organization’s leadership coordinated a series of actions that not only ensured a visible presence but also communicated their commitment to supporting the student community.

The Role of the Nepal Embassy and ABVP Coordination

As the crisis intensified, the Nepal Embassy in India took quick action. They dispatched two officers to Odisha to counsel Nepali students affected by the incident. However, before the embassy’s intervention, ABVP had already set things in motion on the ground. The organization’s Odisha unit was actively involved in communicating with the students, providing both emotional and logistical support.

ABVP’s involvement was not only about organizing protests but also ensuring that Nepali students knew they had access to help. The organization issued multiple contact numbers for students who needed immediate assistance. This direct approach helped build a sense of security among the students who were feeling vulnerable at that time.

Addressing the Safety Concerns of Nepali Students

Sources within ABVP indicated that one of their key objectives was to provide a sense of security to Nepali students in Odisha. Following the incident, several Nepali students expressed fears about their safety, leading to a need for reassurance. ABVP’s regional organizing secretary, Budhadeb Bag, personally reached out to students who had been ordered to vacate their hostels due to the tensions caused by the incident. This eviction order, which was later reversed, had initially added to the anxiety and uncertainty among students.

ABVP’s quick intervention played a crucial role in calming fears and ensuring that students felt safe in their environment. The organization’s efforts went beyond just offering emotional support; they also provided practical assistance, such as facilitating the students’ return to their hostels and helping them navigate the complex situation.

The Broader Political Context

ABVP’s actions were not just about addressing the immediate concerns of Nepali students but also about positioning themselves within a broader political context. Sources close to the organization revealed that the central leadership had given ABVP clear instructions to “be seen on the right side of the fence.” This statement reflects the understanding that in such sensitive situations, ABVP’s role was not only to provide aid but also to ensure that they were seen as defenders of student welfare in a larger political and societal context.

The ABVP’s response to this crisis must be seen in light of the larger political framework in which it operates. The RSS, of which ABVP is a constituent, has long been a significant player in shaping public discourse on issues related to nationalism, student welfare, and cultural identity. By taking a visible stance on the issue, ABVP was also reaffirming its commitment to protecting students and promoting justice, both in the immediate context of the incident and in the broader national narrative.

The Outcry and Protests Across Odisha

The protests organized by ABVP spread quickly across various parts of Odisha. Students, activists, and community members joined in the demonstrations, calling for justice for Prakriti Lamsal and other students who might have faced discrimination or harassment. These protests were not just about the specific incident at KIIT University but also highlighted the challenges faced by foreign students, particularly Nepali students, studying in India.

ABVP’s protests were strategically aimed at drawing attention to the issue and forcing the authorities to take notice. While the organization’s immediate focus was on securing justice for Lamsal, they also used the platform to raise awareness about the broader issues affecting foreign students, including safety concerns, institutional support, and student rights.

The Impact of ABVP’s Involvement

ABVP’s swift actions had a significant impact on the situation. Their involvement ensured that the voices of Nepali students were heard and that their safety concerns were addressed promptly. The organization’s proactive stance also highlighted the importance of student organizations in responding to crises and supporting vulnerable communities.

Furthermore, ABVP’s engagement helped prevent the situation from escalating further. By organizing protests and mobilizing students across Odisha, the organization was able to keep the focus on the need for justice and avoid any potential backlash that could have harmed the reputation of the larger student body or the state’s educational institutions.

The tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal at KIIT University in Odisha was a heartbreaking event that prompted an immediate and organized response from various quarters. Among the key players in the response was the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), which took swift action to protect Nepali students, demand justice, and initiate protests across the state.

ABVP’s strategy was clear and effective. By focusing on providing immediate support, demanding accountability, and organizing visible protests, the organization played a crucial role in managing the crisis. Their involvement not only provided much-needed assistance to Nepali students but also demonstrated the role of student organizations in advocating for justice and student welfare.