MEA
Neelam Shinde, a 35-year-old postgraduate student from Maharashtra’s Satara district, is currently in a coma at the University of California Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, California, following a severe hit-and-run accident on February 14, 2025. The incident MEAoccurred while she was out for an evening walk, resulting in multiple severe injuries, including fractures to her head, arms, legs, and chest. Her family was informed about the accident two days later, on February 16, when her roommates contacted them. citeturn0search5
In response to this medical emergency, Neelam’s father, Tanaji Shinde, has applied for an urgent visa to travel to the United States to be with his daughter during this critical time. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Supriya Sule reached out to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for assistance. She posted on social media, urging External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and the Indian Embassy in the U.S. to facilitate the visa process for Tanaji Shinde. citeturn0search1
The MEA promptly took up the matter with U.S. authorities, emphasizing the need for an expedited visa for Neelam’s family. According to sources, the U.S. side is looking into the formalities for the early grant of a visa for the applicant’s family. citeturn0search0
In response to the MEA’s intervention, the U.S. authorities have granted an emergency visa interview to Tanaji Shinde. The interview is scheduled for Friday, February 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM. This development underscores the collaborative efforts between the Indian government and U.S. authorities to address the family’s urgent need to be together during this challenging time. citeturn0search16
Neelam Shinde’s case highlights the critical role of diplomatic channels in facilitating family reunification during medical emergencies. The swift response from both the Indian and U.S. governments exemplifies the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian concerns.
As Neelam continues her recovery, her family’s presence will undoubtedly provide emotional support and comfort. The collaborative efforts of the MEA, U.S. authorities, and concerned individuals like Supriya Sule have been instrumental in ensuring that Neelam’s family can be by her side during this challenging period.
For more details on this development, you can watch the following news report:
videoIndian Student in Coma After Accident in U.S: MEA Urges Quick Visaturn0search2
