US: Indian dental student shot dead; family seeks government help
What's the story
Chandrashekar Pole, a 27-year-old Indian student from Hyderabad, was shot dead at a gas station in Denton, Texas. The incident occurred on Friday night when an unidentified gunman of African-American origin opened fire. Pole had moved to the United States in 2023 for higher studies after completing his bachelor's degree in dental surgery back home. He had completed his master's degree six months ago and was working part-time at the gas station while looking for full-time employment.
Repatriation plea
Family seeks government assistance
Pole's family is now seeking help from the government to bring his body back to India. His mother, Sunitha, said they learned about his death from a friend's parents. "We request the central and state governments to ensure the safety of Indians and bring my son's body back home as soon as possible," she said. The Consulate General of India (CGI) in Houston is in touch with Pole's family and coordinating with local authorities on the investigation into his death.
Official response
Telangana CM promises assistance
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also expressed his condolences over the incident. He promised that the government would provide all possible assistance to bring Pole's mortal remains back to India. "The death of Pole Chandrasekhar...in a shooting incident by miscreants in America has caused deep shock and grief," Reddy said. Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLA Sudhir Reddy and former minister T Harish Rao visited Pole's family in Hyderabad to offer their condolences and support during this difficult time.
Safety concerns
Incident raises questions on safety of Indian students abroad
The incident has once again raised questions about the safety of international students working part-time jobs in the US, especially during late hours. Earlier this year, another Indian-origin man from Telangana was shot dead by police in California's Santa Clara after an alleged scuffle with his roommate. The Ministry of External Affairs had then assured all assistance to bring back the victim's remains to India.