Kathmandu- The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has issued a warning regarding the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for educational institutions and university in Odisha, India. This follows the tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepali student at KIIT University in Odisha. The Ministry has cautioned that NOC issuance may be suspended in the near future.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the Ministry warned that it would halt the issuance of Foreign Study Permits (NOCs) for students wishing to study at universities and educational institutions in Odisha if the issues arising from the incident are not resolved in a fair and legal manner.
The release emphasized that it is globally recognized that students have the right to study at any accredited university, provided they comply with the university’s fee structure and regulations. However, the Ministry condemned the university administration’s treatment of students while they are enrolled.
Additionally, the Ministry, through diplomatic channels via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is continuously working to ensure that students can pursue their education without interruption. The Ministry also announced the establishment of a help desk to provide emergency assistance to students and parents affected by the incident.
Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepali student, mysteriously passed away while studying at KIIT University. Following her death, Nepali students at the university reported being treated poorly and were forcibly evicted from their hostels. Despite the university’s apology, hundreds of Nepali students have been compelled to return home, just before their exams.