US Ambassador to India Expresses Condolences for Indian Students’ Deaths
The US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, has expressed his condolences to the families of Indian students and people of Indian origin who have recently been victims of attacks in the United States. Garcetti stated that the US government is dedicated to ensuring that Indians feel safe and aware of the opportunities for studying in the US.
Our heart always is touched when any tragedy, whether it is a life taken by somebody or any violence – no matter who they are. We are very committed to making sure that Indians know that the United States is a wonderful place to study and to be safe. We have more Indians studying in the US than any country in the world, Garcetti said.
Garcetti emphasized the importance of working together with the Indian government to prevent such incidents and address any concerns. He expressed sympathy for the families affected by the recent tragedies.
In recent incidents, Syed Mazahir Ali, a student from Hyderabad studying in Indiana, was attacked and robbed of his phone by armed men in Chicago. Another Indian-origin student, B Shreyas Reddy, was found dead in Ohio, with no suspicion of foul play. The body of Sameer Kamath, a doctoral student at Purdue University, was discovered in the woods, with reports later revealing he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Neel Acharya, a 19-year-old Purdue student who was reported missing, was also found dead on the university campus. In a separate incident, Vivek Saini, a 25-year-old Indian man studying in Georgia, was fatally attacked by a homeless person inside the store where he worked.
These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of Indian students studying abroad. The Lok Sabha was informed that a total of 403 incidents of death of Indian students abroad have been reported since 2018, with Canada and the UK having the highest number of cases.
Ambassador Garcetti’s statement aims to reassure Indian students and their families that the United States remains a welcoming and secure destination for educational opportunities. The US government, together with the Indian government, is determined to address safety concerns and promote a positive environment for international students.
While tragedies may occur, the commitment to collaboration and support remains strong. Efforts are underway to enhance safety measures and ensure that incidents of violence are minimized. The US Ambassador’s message of sympathy and support underscores the shared goal of protecting and fostering the well-being of Indian students in the United States.
The Indian government, in collaboration with foreign missions, has been actively working to address the concerns of Indian students abroad and take necessary steps to create a secure environment for them. Education is a vital aspect of the flourishing relationship between India and the United States, and both nations are dedicated to maintaining a positive, inclusive, and safe experience for Indian students pursuing their academic dreams overseas.
The incidents involving Indian students serve as a reminder of the importance of promoting cultural diversity, respect, and harmony in educational institutions and communities worldwide. Establishing a welcoming and secure environment can help build stronger global partnerships and contribute to the mutual growth and understanding between countries.
As investigations into these incidents continue, authorities are diligently working to bring justice and provide a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding each case. It is crucial that both short-term and long-term measures are implemented to prevent such tragic incidents and ensure the safety and welfare of all international students in the United States.
The US Ambassador’s heartfelt condolences to the families affected by these tragedies reflect the compassion and dedication essential in tackling these challenges together. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, the hope is that Indian students will continue to pursue their educational aspirations with confidence, knowing that their safety and well-being are a priority for both nations.
The United States remains committed to ensuring a bright and secure future for all international students, including those from India. Through collaboration and shared efforts, steps are being taken to mitigate potential risks and create a nurturing environment where students can thrive and succeed.
