In a heart-wrenching incident, Neelam Shinde, an Indian student in the United States, was severely injured and is now in a coma after being struck by a speeding vehicle on February 14, 2025. The news of her accident reached her family two days later, on February 16, which led to immense emotional distress.

As her condition remained critical, Neelam’s family struggled to obtain the necessary US visa to be by her side during this difficult time. However, after significant intervention from both the Central and Maharashtra governments, Neelam's family was granted emergency visas by the US Embassy.

Family Expresses Gratitude for Government Assistance

Speaking to the media, Sanjay Kadam, Neelam’s maternal uncle, thanked the Indian government for its swift action in expediting the visa process. He acknowledged that while they initially attempted to secure a visa through agents, the media coverage of the incident prompted government officials to step in and help expedite the process. He also stressed the need for the government to simplify the emergency visa process for families in distress.

“Neelam sustained major injuries, and she is in a coma. The Central and State governments did a good job in helping us. Initially, we tried to book a slot for the US Visa through agents, but when the news reached the government through the media, they stepped in to assist,” Sanjay Kadam said.

Neelam’s Father and Cousin to Fly to the US

Neelam’s father, Tanaji Shinde, also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the authorities for their quick response. “We have got the visa and will be traveling to the US tomorrow. Both the Maharashtra and Central governments responded to our plea. When CM Devendra Fadnavis heard about the incident, he immediately extended help. Several leaders, including Supriya Sule, also supported us,” said Tanaji Shinde.

Neelam’s cousin, Gaurav Kadam, who will be accompanying her father to the US, shared the family's emotional journey. “A speeding car hit her on February 14, and we only received the news on February 16. It was a stressful time, but after intervention from political leaders, including CM Devendra Fadnavis, we were able to get the visa. We are finally traveling tomorrow,” said Gaurav.

Call for Simplification of Emergency Visa Process

The tragedy has sparked an important conversation about the difficulties families face in obtaining emergency visas during critical situations abroad. Neelam’s family has called for simplification in the process to ensure that families can receive quick relief in times of distress.

The Indian government’s prompt intervention ensured that the family could be reunited with Neelam during her medical treatment. However, the situation has highlighted the urgent need for procedural changes to ease the visa process for families dealing with health emergencies.

Conclusion

As Neelam Shinde's family prepares to fly to the US, they remain hopeful for her recovery, thanks to the assistance of both the Indian government and the US Embassy. This incident also sheds light on the need for better support systems for families in crisis, ensuring that emergency visa processes are expedited in cases of health emergencies.

The family’s experience serves as a reminder of the vital role of government intervention in humanitarian crises, providing families with the support they need when facing unforeseen tragedies abroad.

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