In response to the recent spate of deaths of Indian students in the United States, the Indian government assured its nationals studying there of full cooperation and assistance.
Following the tragic killing of Amarnath Ghosh, a Kolkata-based dancer pursuing his PhD in Missouri last month, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated on Mar. 8 that consulates in the US have actively reached out to students, offering guidance and urging them to promptly contact the embassy or consulates in case of any trouble.
Jaiswal addressed concerns about the ongoing investigation into Ghosh's case, revealing that the Chicago police are handling the matter. The consulates are closely coordinating with the authorities, and Jaiswal emphasized that once the investigation concludes, more details about the circumstances leading to Ghosh's death will be known.
The Consulate General of India in Chicago, in a statement on Mar. 2, confirmed its commitment to supporting Ghosh's family and revealed its active engagement with the St Louis police in Missouri regarding the case.
Deep condolences to family & friends of deceased Amarnath Ghosh in StLouis, Missouri. We are following up forensic, investigation with police & providing support. @IndianEmbassyUS @MEAIndia
— India in Chicago (@IndiainChicago) March 1, 2024
The recent incident involving Ghosh adds to a disturbing trend, with more than five Indian and Indian-origin students losing their lives in the US since the beginning of the year. This series of tragic events has raised concerns about the overall security and safety of students in the country.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the White House reiterated its commitment to preventing violence based on race, gender, or any other factor. John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, emphasized the unacceptability of such violence in the US and assured that efforts are underway to thwart and disrupt attacks on Indians and Indian-origin students.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the welfare of Indian students abroad is a top priority for the government. According to a November 2023 Open Doors report, Indian students constitute over 25 percent of the one million-plus foreign students in the US. The report also noted a significant 35 percent increase in the number of Indian students studying in the US, reaching a record high of 2,68,923 in the academic year 2022-23.
As the Indian government actively engages with the US authorities to address the safety concerns of its students, the international community watches closely, hoping for swift and effective measures to ensure the well-being of Indian students pursuing education in the United States.
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