The family of Neelam Shinde, an Indian student from Maharashtra who is in a coma following a severe hit-and-run accident in California, has been granted emergency US visas. This development comes after urgent appeals and diplomatic efforts to expedite the visa process.
Neelam Shinde, a postgraduate student at California State University, sustained critical injuries on February 14th when she was struck by a vehicle in Sacramento. The incident left her in a coma, requiring emergency brain surgery and other critical medical interventions. Â
The Incident and Its Aftermath
According to reports, Neelam Shinde was hit by a vehicle on Fair Oaks Boulevard, and the driver fled the scene. The Sacramento Police Department has confirmed the arrest of a 58-year-old suspect, Lawrence Gallows, in connection with the incident.
Neelam suffered severe injuries, including head trauma, and fractures to her arms and legs. She was immediately taken to UC Davis Medical Center, where she has been receiving intensive care.
Family’s Urgent Plea and Diplomatic Efforts
The news of Neelam’s condition prompted her family in Satara, Maharashtra, to seek urgent visas to travel to the United States. However, they initially faced delays in securing visa appointments.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the family reached out to various political figures and authorities for assistance. Notably, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) leader Supriya Sule took up the matter, raising it with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The Indian consulate in San Francisco also played a crucial role, providing support and maintaining communication with the hospital, family, and friends.
Visa Approval and Family’s Travel
Following the intervention of the MEA and the efforts of the US embassy, the Shinde family’s visa applications were expedited. Reports indicate that the family had their visa interviews at the US Consulate in Mumbai, and were granted the visas.
Neelam’s father expressed his gratitude to the Indian government, the Maharashtra government, and the media for their support in facilitating the visa process. He also expressed that the family would be traveling to the United States very soon.
Neelam Shinde’s Background
Neelam Shinde is described as a dedicated student with a strong academic background. She has a history of academic achievement, including work experience at NASA, and other tech companies. She had been pursuing her masters degree at California State University.
Ongoing Support and Situation
The Indian consulate in San Francisco has assured that they will continue to provide all possible assistance to Neelam and her family. The focus now is on Neelam’s recovery and providing her family with the necessary support during this difficult time.
This situation has highlighted the importance of swift action in emergency situations, particularly when international travel is involved. It has also demonstrated the collaborative efforts of various government agencies and individuals in providing assistance to those in need.