Emergency US Visa for Neelam Shinde’s Family
By : Arvind Jadhav
Neelam Shinde’s Tragic Accident
Mumbai : Neelam Shinde’s family receives emergency visa with coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and the United States. Ten days ago, Neelam Shinde, a Satara student, was injured in an accident while walking on the road in California, USA. A speeding car hit her from behind. The accident was so damaging that she sustained crucial chest injuries and went into a coma. She has been in the intensive care unit at UC Davis Medical Center in California for more than ten days. She had terrible injuries to her hands, legs, and brain in the accident.
Emergency Visa Denial and Appeal
Two days later, one of Neelam’s roommates informed her family of the accident. On that day, Neelam Shinde’s family demanded an emergency visa from the US Embassy. However, they were denied an emergency visa due to technical difficulties. Following that, Neelam’s family spoke to political representatives and requested an emergency visa. They explained the urgency of the situation and provided all necessary documentation. Despite the initial denial, the family remained hopeful that they would be able to obtain the visa and be with Neelam during this critical time.
Political Intervention and Visa Approval
Following the family’s appeal, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Foreign Minister about Neelam’s accident and the refusal of her family’s visa. He requested that the Foreign Minister immediately send several family members for her medical care. The Ministry of External Affairs sent an email to the US Embassy seeking an urgent visa. This intervention proved to be successful, and the family was finally able to obtain the emergency visa they needed.
Visa Processing and Family’s Gratitude
Today, Neelam’s relatives are at the US Embassy in BKC, Mumbai, to process the documentation; they will receive the visa shortly and move to the United States. Neelam’s family admired all political parties for giving priority to the serious situation. They expressed their gratitude to everyone who supported them during this difficult time, including the Ministry of External Affairs, the US Embassy, and the political leaders who intervened on their behalf.
California State University’s Support
California State University has expressed its support for Neelam and her family. In a public statement on February 16, 2025, the university confirmed her critical condition and ongoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. The institution also appealed for expedited travel permissions, further showcasing its concern for this tragic circumstance. The university’s support has been a source of comfort for Neelam’s family during this challenging time.
