Indian Student Nilam Shinde in Coma After Hit-and-Run Accident in California

B MANOGNA REDDY's profile image
3 min read
Neelam Shinde

Image credits: India Today

The family of Nilam Shinde, a student from Maharashtra's Satara district, is racing against time to obtain an emergency visa to reunite with their daughter in California, where she lies in a coma after a hit-and-run accident. The accident, which occurred on February 14, has left Shinde with severe injuries, including fractures in both arms and legs, and a head injury that required emergency brain surgery. The driver of the car, 58-year-old Lawrence Gallow, was arrested five days later and charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in permanent injury.

Shinde's family had applied for a visa 48 hours after the accident, but the initial interview slot they received was for next year. However, after an intervention by the Ministry of External Affairs, following a request from NCP leader Supriya Sule, the family was able to secure an expedited US visa appointment interview slot. Shinde's father, Tanaji Shinde, and brother have a visa appointment scheduled in Mumbai, and the family is hopeful that they will be able to travel to the US soon to be with their daughter. The Indian government has been providing assistance to the family, and the Consulate General of India in San Francisco has been in constant touch with the hospital and the family to provide support.

The accident has highlighted the challenges faced by families of international students in emergency situations, and the need for efficient and compassionate visa processes. Shinde's family has been seeking help from the government and other authorities to expedite the visa process, and their efforts have been supported by local leaders and the community. The family's situation has also sparked a wider discussion about the importance of emergency preparedness and support systems for international students and their families.

Here are some key points about the incident and the subsequent developments: * The accident occurred on February 14, and the driver was arrested on February 19 * Shinde suffered severe injuries, including fractures in both arms and legs, and a head injury that required emergency brain surgery * The family applied for a visa 48 hours after the accident, but the initial interview slot was for next year * The Ministry of External Affairs intervened to secure an expedited US visa appointment interview slot for the family * Shinde's father and brother have a visa appointment scheduled in Mumbai, and the family is hopeful that they will be able to travel to the US soon * The Indian government and the Consulate General of India in San Francisco have been providing assistance to the family.

The situation is a reminder of the importance of community support and advocacy in emergency situations, and the need for efficient and compassionate systems to support families in need. As Shinde's family continues to navigate the challenges of obtaining an emergency visa, they are grateful for the support and assistance they have received so far, and they remain hopeful that they will be able to reunite with their daughter soon.

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