By Fazlullah for RAHAMATABAD.COM
Hyderabad/New Haven, February 25, 2025 – In a tragic incident, an Indian student from Hyderabad, identified as Ravi Teja, was shot dead in New Haven, Connecticut, while pursuing his Master’s degree in the U.S. The incident has sparked widespread concern over the safety of Indian students studying abroad, particularly in the United States.Incident DetailsAccording to initial reports, Ravi Teja, 25, was returning to his apartment from a convenience store late at night when he was attacked by an unidentified gunman. Local police responded to emergency calls and found him critically wounded with multiple gunshot injuries. He was immediately rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries.Authorities have launched an investigation, with preliminary findings suggesting that the attack may have been a case of armed robbery gone wrong. However, there is also speculation regarding potential racial or hate crime motives, given the rising incidents of violence against international students in the U.S.Family Devastated, Seeks Indian Government’s HelpRavi Teja’s family in Hyderabad is devastated by the news and has appealed to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs for assistance in repatriating his body. His father, Maheshwar Rao, expressed deep sorrow, stating,”We sent our son to the U.S. for higher education, dreaming of a better future for him. We never imagined he would return in this way. We want justice for him, and we urge the Indian and U.S. governments to take action.”The family has also reached out to Indian student associations in the U.S. for support.Safety Concerns for Indian Students AbroadThe incident has reignited concerns about student safety in the U.S., where several cases of violence against international students have been reported in recent months. Many Indian students have voiced concerns about late-night travel and the risks associated with certain areas.Community leaders and student groups are urging Indian students studying in the U.S. to take necessary precautions, such as:Avoiding late-night travel in isolated areasStaying in well-lit and populated locationsKeeping emergency contacts handyBeing aware of local laws and security measuresDiplomatic Intervention & Investigation UpdatesThe Indian Consulate in New York has taken note of the incident and is in touch with local law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation. The U.S. authorities have assured cooperation, with Connecticut police working to identify the shooter and determine the exact motive behind the crime.Indian officials have also urged U.S. authorities to take stricter measures to protect international students.Call for Stricter Safety PoliciesIn response to the growing concerns, Indian student associations have called for stronger safety policies and better coordination between universities, local police, and international embassies to prevent such tragedies in the future.Meanwhile, Ravi Teja’s friends and fellow students in Connecticut held a candlelight vigil in his memory, demanding justice for their lost friend.—This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of the challenges and dangers faced by Indian students abroad. The investigation is ongoing, and Ravi Teja’s family hopes for justice and better security measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.For further updates, stay tuned to RAHAMATABAD.COM.