The US has scheduled an emergency visa interview for the father of Nilam Shinde, a 35-year-old woman currently in a coma in a California hospital following a serious road accident on February 14. The interview will take place at 9 AM this Friday, allowing her father to visit his critically injured daughter.
Here are the key highlights of this developing story:
- Nilam Shinde’s father has confirmed his appointment at the US consulate in Mumbai and plans to leave his home in Satara district tonight. He expressed optimism about obtaining the visa, stating, “We got a call from the consulate for an interview… after everyone’s help. We hope we will get a visa.”
- Earlier today, sources revealed that the External Affairs Ministry’s Americas Division had reached out to the US government regarding the visa process. Typically, travel permits for medical emergencies are processed swiftly, raising questions about the delays in this case.
- Ms. Shinde, a student at California State University, sustained severe injuries after being struck from behind by a vehicle on February 14, resulting in multiple fractures and the need for emergency brain surgery.
- Her family applied for a visa 48 hours after the accident, but the application has been pending. Ms. Shinde’s uncle mentioned that the earliest available appointment for a visa is not until next year.
- Following the accident, Ms. Shinde suffered fractures in both arms and legs and required immediate surgery. She has remained in a coma since the procedure, according to reports.
- A statement from California State University, released on February 16, indicated that Ms. Shinde is in critical condition, receiving care in the Intensive Care Unit. The university has also urged for expedited travel permits for her family.
- The hospital has emphasized the necessity of her father’s presence to assist the medical team in making crucial care decisions, as Ms. Shinde is unable to communicate due to her condition.
- Sources confirmed that the US does provide ’emergency’ visas for situations involving seriously ill or deceased family members. This process involves a written request from a doctor to expedite visa interview appointments, although there are limited slots available for such applications.
- The tragic circumstances surrounding Ms. Shinde gained public attention earlier this week when NCP MP Supriya Sule highlighted her family’s plight, urging the External Affairs Ministry to intervene. Sule noted the urgency of the situation, particularly after Ms. Shinde’s mother passed away from brain cancer last year.
- Local law enforcement is currently investigating the accident, with the driver of the vehicle in custody. However, due to Ms. Shinde’s medical status, legal complications may arise regarding the filing of a case without a blood relative present.
