Indian Student in Coma After U.S. Road Accident; Parents Seek Urgent Visa

A young woman from Maharashtra, Neelam Shinde, who had traveled to the United States for higher education, was severely injured in a road accident in California. The car she was traveling in was hit at high speed by another vehicle, resulting in multiple fractures to her arms and legs. Doctors confirmed that she suffered a severe head injury and has slipped into a coma.

The accident occurred on February 14, but Neelam's parents were informed only on February 16. Her father, Tanaji Shinde, stated that they have applied for a visa to travel to the U.S. to be with their daughter. However, the visa has not yet been granted, causing them significant distress. Seeking assistance, they reached out to Member of Parliament Supriya Sule.

Supriya Sule brought the matter to the attention of India’s Ministry of External Affairs through Twitter, urging swift intervention. In response, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was requested to facilitate the visa approval for Neelam Shinde’s parents at the earliest. Supriya Sule assured the family of her support during this crisis.

Neelam Shinde, a native of Satara district, moved to the U.S. four years ago for her studies. This year was supposed to mark the completion of her education. Overwhelmed by the tragic turn of events, Tanaji Shinde expressed his grief, saying that their daughter's dreams have been shattered.