UGC Issues Show Cause Notice to KIIT Amid Serious Governance Lapses

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a show cause notice to Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneshwar following a probe into serious regulatory failings linked to student suicides. The investigative panel found significant lapses in KIIT's mental health support and administrative protocols.

Initiated after the tragic suicides of two Nepalese students, the panel's findings suggested that neglect and unlawful activities possibly contributed to these incidents. Failure to properly address a sexual harassment complaint and prioritizing the institution's reputation were highlighted as significant failures.

The UGC has given the university seven days to respond to the notice, warning of potential disciplinary actions, including program closures and reputational sanctions. Criminal liabilities have also been suggested for university officials involved in the apparent cover-up.

(With inputs from agencies.)