In recent weeks, the United States has witnessed a concerning spike in the deaths of Indian or Indian-origin students under suspicious circumstances. This alarming trend suggests that the Joe Biden administration is not taking sufficient measures to address these attacks. Just recently, Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Hyderabad, was found dead in Cleveland after being missing for several weeks. His family had even received a ransom call on March 17. Despite the Indian consulate's claim of cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, the student could not be rescued. Tragically, similar incidents have occurred, including the death of Uma Satya Sai Gadde in Ohio last week and the shooting of Amarnath Ghosh, a trained classical dancer, in St. Louis, Missouri, in March.
The series of unnatural deaths in January and
February prompted John Kirby, a White House communications officer, to
emphasize that there is no excuse for violence based on race, gender, religion,
or any other factor. He assured the Indian diaspora that the Biden
administration was working diligently to prevent such attacks. Similarly, US
Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, expressed a strong commitment from his
government to convince Indians that America is a safe and wonderful place to
study. However, the situation on the ground appears to be worsening.
The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora
Studies, based in the US, has identified the main causes behind these
incidents, which include violent crimes, suspicious accidents, and mental
health issues leading to suicide. The foundation has urged authorities to raise
awareness about the various risks and provide mental health support. There are
speculations that negative propaganda against the Indian community is fueling
hate crimes. Given that Indians comprise approximately 25 percent of foreign
students in the US, it is imperative for America to prioritize their safety and
take strong action against the perpetrators of hate crimes. The current lack of
vigilance could severely damage America's reputation as a preferred destination
for Indian students.
Immediate and decisive measures are needed to
ensure the security and well-being of Indian students in the USA. The Biden
administration must intensify its efforts to address these attacks, collaborate
closely with law enforcement agencies, and establish robust preventive
measures. By taking proactive steps to safeguard Indian students and cracking
down on hate-mongers, the United States can uphold its commitment to
inclusivity, protect its reputation as an educational hub, and foster a safe
and welcoming environment for all students.
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