Odisha Government Opens 24x7 Helpdesk
Following the tragic death of a student at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the Higher Education Department has taken swift action to ensure the safety and security of students affected by the incident. A dedicated 24x7 helpdesk has been established to address the concerns of students and their families.
The helpdesk, which will be operational round the clock, is staffed by nine personnel and is headed by Kali Prasanna Mohapatra, Director of Higher Education. Rajata Manasingh, Deputy Director, will assist Mohapatra in managing the helpdesk. The helpdesk can be reached through four landline numbers and a WhatsApp number.
The Odisha government has also formed a high-level investigation committee to probe the death of the student and bring the perpetrators to justice. The committee will also investigate the university's response to the alleged harassment faced by the student.
Meanwhile, Nepal's Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has urged the Odisha government to take strict action against those responsible for the student's death. Deuba also emphasized the need to create a safe environment for Nepali students studying in Odisha.
The Odisha government has assured the Nepal government that it is taking the incident seriously and will ensure a thorough investigation and appropriate action. The government is committed to protecting the rights and safety of all students, including international students.
13 Comments
Raphael
“Relying on a helpdesk implies that the government expects us to call in distress, rather than actively keeping students safe.”
Michelangelo
“Instituting a high-level investigation committee is a step in the right direction. Transparency and justice must prevail.”
Leonardo
“It’s reassuring to see the Odisha government taking immediate action with a 24x7 helpdesk after such a tragic incident.”
Donatello
“The government's reaction is merely performative. They should have been ensuring student safety all along.”
Raphael
“This measure doesn’t address systemic harassment and exploitation issues in educational institutions.”
Cerebro
“A round-the-clock helpdesk can really help handle emergencies and provide much-needed guidance to affected families.”
Rolihlahla
“A high-level committee sounds like a cover-up waiting to happen. We deserve transparency, not excuses.”
Martin L King
“This is a clear sign that the government is listening and acting on public concerns. More such measures can rebuild trust in our institutions.”
Rolihlahla
“I question if this helpdesk is even accessible to all students. It might just be a tool for bureaucratic paperwork.”
Martin L King
“This 24x7 helpdesk seems like a half-hearted measure. How will nine people really address all our concerns?”
Rolihlahla
“The swift reaction and planned investigation process instill some confidence that such incidents will be thoroughly addressed.”
Martin L King
“It’s disheartening to see that the response involves just statements and phone numbers. Real action is needed on campus.”
Donatello
“Kudos to the Higher Education Department for prioritizing student safety and establishing a dedicated support system.”