The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued a strict three-day ultimatum to the Odisha government, demanding a detailed action-taken report concerning the brutal murder of a tribal student and the subsequent alleged cover-up attempt by authorities at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) in Bhubaneswar. This directive comes after eight individuals linked to the institute's administration were arrested on Wednesday.
Commission Takes Suo Motu Cognisance, Issues Notices
NCST member Jatothu Hussain stated that the commission, deeply shocked by the nature of the crime, took suo motu cognisance of the incident. Notices have been dispatched to several top state officials, including the home secretary, school and mass education secretary, ST & SC development secretary, the Director General of Police (DGP), the police commissioner, and the Khurda district collector.
"They have been asked to submit an action taken report within three days," Hussain confirmed. He emphasized the commission's commitment to safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Tribes and announced that an NCST team will soon visit KISS for a field investigation. "Stringent action will follow against those found guilty," he assured.
Political Outcry and Demands for Accountability
The horrific incident has triggered grave concern and strong reactions from political leaders at both state and central levels. Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram voiced his shock, noting that similar cases have been reported from the institute in the past. "It is high time the KISS authorities take caution and responsibility. The state govt is investigating, and we expect strict action," Oram said, adding that his ministry is closely monitoring developments.
Adding to the pressure, Ananta Nayak, the BJP MP from Keonjhar—which is also the home district of the deceased student—demanded immediate accountability. Nayak declared his intention to personally meet Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also hails from Keonjhar, to urge him to initiate stringent action against the KISS authorities involved in the alleged cover-up.
State Government's Assurance and Ongoing Probe
In response to the mounting scrutiny, the Odisha government has pledged firm action. School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond stated that the incident is already under active investigation. "Several arrests have been made, and all those responsible will be brought to justice," Gond asserted, referencing the arrest of the eight individuals connected to the institute.
The case underscores serious concerns about the safety of tribal students in residential institutions and the accountability of administrative bodies. The nation now awaits the Odisha government's report to the NCST and the subsequent actions promised by both state and central authorities.
