Hyderabad, October 4: In yet another tragic incident highlighting the rising concern over the safety of Indians abroad, a Indian student shot dead in US has sent shockwaves through the community. The victim, 26 year old Chandrashekar Pole from Hyderabad, who had recently completed his higher studies in Dallas, was gunned down by unidentified assailants at a gas station in Denton, Texas, where he was working part time.
According to initial reports, the incident took place on Friday night when miscreants opened fire at the gas station. Chandrashekar, who hailed from LB Nagar in Hyderabad, succumbed to gunshot wounds at the scene. His sudden death has left his family and well wishers devastated.
Background of the Victim
Chandrashekar Pole had a promising career ahead of him. After completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in Hyderabad, he moved to the United States in 2023 to pursue higher education. He had successfully finished his master’s degree six months ago and was actively seeking employment opportunities in his field.
His brother Damodar, speaking to reporters, said that Chandrashekar had taken up a part time job at the gas station to support himself while searching for a professional placement. Unfortunately, it was during one of these night shifts that the tragic shooting occurred.
Reactions from Family and Leaders
The incident has drawn immediate responses from leaders in Telangana. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed his deep condolences to the bereaved family. “The death of Pole Chandrashekar, a student from LB Nagar, in a shooting incident by miscreants in America has caused deep shock and grief. I pray to God that his soul may find peace and express my profound condolences to his family members,” Reddy posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Former Telangana minister and BRS MLA T Harish Rao personally met the family members and extended support. Rao also urged the state government to ensure that Chandrashekar’s mortal remains are repatriated without delay. He noted that the young student had gone abroad with aspirations of building a better future, only to meet an untimely end.
Telangana Government Assures Assistance
The Telangana government has assured all possible support to bring back the mortal remains of the deceased. Officials are coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in the United States. The Consulate General of India in Houston is also reportedly in touch with local authorities in Texas to expedite formalities.
Such assistance includes covering logistics and ensuring the family can perform the last rites in Hyderabad. This assurance comes as a relief to the grieving parents and relatives, who have been struggling to cope with the sudden loss.
Pattern of Rising Incidents Involving Indians in US
The Indian student shot dead in US is not an isolated incident. In recent months, there have been several unfortunate cases of Indian nationals being killed in the United States under different circumstances.
Just last month, another Indian from Telangana, Mohammed Nizamuddin, 32, was shot dead by police in Santa Clara, California. According to reports, police officers fired multiple rounds after responding to a 911 call, where Nizamuddin was allegedly seen holding a knife. His family, however, only learned about the death two weeks later, further deepening their grief.
Read More: Indian Techie Shot Dead By US Police, Family Alleges Racial Harassment
Similarly, the Indian community was also shaken when Motel Manager Chandra Mouli Nagamallaiah, youth from Karnataka, was brutally beheaded in the United States only a few days ago. These back to back incidents have raised alarm among families with students or professionals living abroad.
Read More: Is America not safe?: Indian American beheaded in Dallas Motel by co-worker
Concerns Over Safety of Indian Students Abroad
India has one of the largest student populations overseas, with the United States being a top destination for higher studies. Families often invest significant resources to send their children abroad, believing in the promise of better education and career opportunities. However, incidents like the Hyderabad student shot dead in US case have reignited concerns about safety.
While many Indian students work part-time jobs to support themselves, working in late-night shifts at gas stations and convenience stores is often considered risky. Several community organizations have now begun urging students to prioritize safety and remain vigilant while working in such environments.
A Community in Mourning
Back in Hyderabad, Chandrashekar’s family, friends, and neighbors have been gathering to console one another. Many described him as a dedicated and ambitious young man who always dreamt of serving society through his profession. His death is not just a personal tragedy but also a loss to the wider community that believed in his potential
Final Thoughts
The case of the Hyderabad student shot dead in US underscores the increasing challenges faced by Indian students and professionals abroad. While authorities in both countries are working to provide justice and ensure the repatriation of the victim’s body, the emotional toll on the family and the larger Indian diaspora remains immeasurable.
As the investigation continues in Texas, the family of Chandrashekar Pole waits to perform his last rites in his hometown, hoping that no other family has to endure a similar heartbreak.
