Calls For Inquest After Death Of International Student Bikram Lama In Sydney CBD

A call for a coronial inquest has been made following the death of international student Bikram Lama, who died while sleeping rough in Sydney’s CBD.

Lama, a 32-year-old Nepali national, was found dead in bushes near St James Station in Hyde Park in December. It is estimated that large numbers of pedestrians passed through the area daily before his body was discovered by staff.

NSW independent MP Alex Greenwich has written to Attorney-General Michael Daley requesting an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Lama’s death. In his letter, Greenwich said it was unclear “why Mr Lama started to sleep rough or what could have prevented him from becoming homeless”.

“We know that people on temporary visas do not get access to the health and welfare support that can help other people who are homeless get back on their feet,” said Greenwich.

“A State Coronial inquest into Bikram’s death that also considers policy failures, the role of universities in the welfare of foreign students, service gaps, and impediments to access to healthcare and support for non-resident people experiencing homelessness would help us understand how the system let Bikram and other homeless people down and what we can do better.”

Lama had travelled to Australia to study computer science but later became homeless. Reports indicate he was unable to access support services due to his visa status, which left him ineligible for a range of assistance, including housing and healthcare.

The case has drawn attention to the number of people sleeping rough in central Sydney. Data from the City of Sydney showed 346 people were sleeping rough in the CBD last year, representing a 24 per cent increase from the previous year. Approximately 18 per cent of those were not Australian residents.

Advocates and service providers have raised concerns about gaps in support for non-residents experiencing homelessness. People without permanent residency may be unable to access crisis accommodation, welfare payments, or public healthcare.

The NSW Coroner is currently awaiting further evidence from police before determining whether an inquest will proceed.