US Govt Urged: A leading Indian diaspora organization, the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), has urged various US government agencies, universities, and student associations to collaborate in addressing the recent increase in fatalities of students with Indian heritage in the United States.
FIIDS analysed recent incidents and identified causes including suspicious shootings, environmental dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning, mental health issues leading to suicides, and accidents across different states, raising concerns within the Indo-American community.
US Govt Urged…
Recommendations include enhancing safety education, improving search and rescue procedures, implementing stricter rules against fraternity hazing, raising awareness about risks and safety, and providing mental health support.
Eleven Indian students have died in the US this year, including Mohammad Abdul Arfath in Cleveland, Uma Satya Sal Gadde in Ohio, and the shooting of Amarnath Ghosh in St Louis.
Dr. Lakshmi Thalanki from Boston, tracking these incidents, described the surge in deaths as alarming and suspicious.
FIIDS has submitted its recommendations to relevant authorities and plans to conduct a survey to gauge Indian-American students’ safety concerns.
While rumours of hate crimes circulated within the community, FIIDS emphasized the need for thorough investigation before drawing conclusions.
According to the Open Doors Report (ODR), Indian-origin students constitute quarter of total foreign students, contributing $9B annually in fees and expenses.
FIIDS aims to ensure the safety and well-being of this significant demographic through collaborative efforts with stakeholders.