KATHMANDU, 159 Nepali students studying at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha, India, have returned home through Raxaul, following growing concerns over the suspicious death of fellow student Prakriti Lamsal.

The students arrived in Nepal on Wednesday and Thursday evening, citing a tense environment at the university.

According to Suman Kumar Karki, Assistant Chief District Officer of Parsa, the students chose to return due to the unsettling circumstances surrounding Lamsal’s death. The incident has sparked outrage and fear among Nepali students studying at KIIT, leading to mass departures. Adding to the tension, youth in Birgunj organized a candlelight vigil on Thursday evening, demanding justice for Rinku Sada, who allegedly died after being raped in Siraha.

Protesters called for a judicial inquiry, suspecting foul play in the unnatural deaths of both Lamsal and Sada. The deaths have triggered widespread concern and demands for accountability, with activists urging authorities to investigate the incidents thoroughly and ensure justice for the victims.