New Delhi—The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged US authorities to expedite a visa for the family of Neelam Shinde, an Indian student from Maharashtra’s Satara district, who remains in a coma following a severe road accident in California. The accident, which occurred on February 14, left Shinde with critical injuries to her head, hand, and chest. Her family has been desperately seeking an emergency visa to be by her side, as her condition remains grave. Indian officials have formally requested an urgent review of the visa process to ensure her father, Tanaji Shinde, can travel to the US without delay.

The case gained national attention after Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar) leader Supriya Sule took to social media to highlight the family’s plight. Addressing Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and the Indian Embassy in Washington, she called for immediate intervention, emphasizing the emotional and medical urgency of the situation. The MEA has since confirmed that discussions are underway with American officials to accelerate the visa process. However, US authorities have yet to provide a definitive timeline for its issuance, leaving the family in distress as they await news.

Shinde’s accident and subsequent hospitalization have sparked widespread concern within the Indian community, both in the US and India. Many have voiced their support on social media, urging swift action from both governments. While US officials have acknowledged the request and are reportedly reviewing the formalities, the uncertainty surrounding the visa approval continues to weigh heavily on the family. With time being a crucial factor in medical emergencies, the case has underscored the need for streamlined visa protocols for Indian families dealing with such crises abroad.