In a tragic turn of events, Neelam Shinde, a 35-year-old Indian student from Maharashtra, was severely injured in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento, California. The incident occurred on February 14, 2025, when Neelam was reportedly on her routine evening walk near her residence. The unidentified driver fled the scene, leaving her critically wounded.
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Neelam was immediately rushed to a local hospital, where she remains in a coma with severe head trauma and multiple fractures. Her condition remains critical yet stable, according to hospital sources.
As her health battle continues, Neelam’s family in Satara, Maharashtra, is struggling to get emergency visas to reach her in the US. The situation has sparked emotional distress for her loved ones, as they desperately seek government intervention for a faster visa process.
Neelam Shinde Family’s Struggle for Emergency Visa
- Visa Rejections: Neelam’s father, who applied for an emergency visa to the US, was reportedly denied access twice by the US embassy in Mumbai.
- Government Intervention: Following public outcry and appeals from politicians, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has now stepped in to request urgent visa approvals.
- Father’s Statement: Neelam’s father shared his frustration, saying, “We were told to leave the visa office without any proper explanation. My daughter is battling for her life, and we are unable to see her. What kind of system is this?”
- US Response: Amid growing pressure, US authorities have agreed to re-evaluate the visa application and expedite the process.
What Happened? The Details of the Hit-and-Run
Neelam’s Routine Walk Turns Tragic
Neelam, a graduate student in California, was walking near her apartment when a speeding SUV hit her from behind.
- Eyewitness Reports: Locals reported seeing a black SUV moving recklessly before striking Neelam.
- Lack of Immediate Help: The driver did not stop to check on her, leaving her unconscious on the road.
- Security Camera Footage: Footage from a nearby CCTV camera captured the vehicle’s movements, helping police identify the suspect.
Investigation Status: The Sacramento Police Department is actively investigating the case but has yet to arrest the culprit.
Who is Neelam Shinde?
Neelam, originally from Satara, Maharashtra, moved to the US in 2023 for higher studies.
- Age: 35 years old
- Educational Background: Pursuing a master’s degree in data science
- Current University: Studying at a prestigious university in California
- Family Background: Belongs to a middle-class family in Maharashtra
Her dream of building a bright future in the US has now been tragically interrupted.
Social Media Outcry and Public Support
The incident has sparked a wave of outrage on social media, with #JusticeForNeelam trending across platforms.
- Students’ Voices: Indian student communities in the US have started online petitions urging authorities to speed up the investigation.
- Political Reactions: Indian politicians have appealed to the US embassy for compassionate consideration of the visa request.
- Public Support: Thousands of messages supporting Neelam’s family have flooded Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Neelam’s situation has once again highlighted the challenges faced by international students in foreign countries, especially regarding safety and legal support.
Legal Challenges and the Hit-and-Run Crisis in the US
Hit-and-run cases in the US have been a growing concern, particularly in cities like Sacramento and Los Angeles.
- Increase in Cases: According to recent data, hit-and-run accidents in California have risen by 30% over the last five years.
- Legal Consequences: In the US, leaving the scene of an accident can lead to severe legal penalties, including imprisonment.
- Challenges in Investigation: Many cases remain unsolved due to lack of witnesses and delayed police response.
Authorities have assured that Neelam’s case is being treated with high priority, and efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the suspect.
Government and Diplomatic Efforts for the Family
Indian Government’s Response
Following the visa denial, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stepped in to:
- Contact US Officials: The Indian embassy in Washington, DC, has formally requested urgent visa approval for Neelam’s family.
- Provide Medical Assistance: Efforts are being made to ensure Neelam receives the best possible medical care.
- Legal Action Support: Legal experts are offering help to speed up the investigation and arrest the suspect.
US Embassy’s Latest Update
After initial visa rejections, the US embassy in Mumbai has now scheduled an emergency interview for Neelam’s father. If approved, he may be able to fly to the US within 48 hours.
This update has provided some relief to the family, though they remain anxious about their daughter’s condition.
What Happens Next?
With the case gaining national and international attention, the following developments are expected:
- Faster Visa Processing: The Indian government continues to push for immediate visa approval.
- Stronger Investigation: Sacramento police are actively working on identifying and arresting the driver.
- Medical Updates: Doctors will soon provide a new health update on Neelam’s condition.
The coming days are crucial as Neelam continues her fight for survival.
Moving Forward: Justice and Support Needed for Neelam Shinde
The Neelam Shinde hit-and-run case is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by international students abroad. As Neelam lies in a coma, her family’s desperate plea for help has led to diplomatic action and global support.
With pressure mounting on US authorities, the hope remains that the culprit will be caught, and Neelam’s family will reach her in time. For now, India and the world wait for updates on Neelam’s condition and the progress of the investigation.
By – Nikita
