Why Indian-origin students are dying in US; diaspora body explains
What's the story
The year 2024 has witnessed a disturbing surge in fatalities among Indian and Indian-origin students in the United States (US).
As of April, the death toll had reached 11, with all victims being students aged 25 or younger.
The causes of these deaths range from environmental deaths to potential hate crimes, as per a study conducted by a prominent diaspora organization, Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS).
Investigation findings
Study reveals varied causes behind Indian-origin student deaths
The FIIDS conducted an analysis to identify the reasons behind these tragic incidents.
"The sudden surge of deaths among Indian students is alarming and suspicious," noted Lakshmi Thalanki from Boston, who gathered data on these deaths.
The FIIDS study found that the causes ranged from suspicious shootings/abductions and environmental deaths due to lack of safety knowledge, to mental health issues leading to suicides and even violent crimes.
Safety measures
FIIDS calls for action to address student deaths
In response to this alarming trend, the FIIDS has urged various US government agencies, universities, and student associations to take action.
The diaspora organization has recommended enhancing safety education, improving search and rescue procedures, implementing stricter rules against fraternity hazing, increasing awareness of risks and safety measures, and providing mental health support.
Enrollment concerns
Potential impact on future student inflow to the US
"If not addressed, [the increase in deaths] could undermine their confidence in the safety of US universities, potentially affecting future student inflow," warned Khanderao Kand, chief of Policies and Strategy at FIIDS.
The US continues to be a popular choice for Indian students seeking high-quality education and promising career opportunities.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in enrollment at US universities. The academic year 2022-23 alone witnessed a 35% rise in enrollment compared to the previous year.
Educational migration
US remains preferred destination for Indian students
According to the Open Doors Report, around 275,000 Indian-origin students constitute 25% of total foreign students in the US.
However, the recent spate of student deaths has triggered questions about their safety in the US.
Reports of violent attacks on Indian students have been on the rise since early 2024.
One case that drew significant attention involved a 25-year-old Indian-origin student named Mohammad Abdul Arfath, who was found dead in Cleveland, Ohio, after going missing for a month.
Community concerns
Body of Indian-origin student found dead days ago
Just days ago, Uma Satya Sai Gadde, an Indian student, was found dead in Ohio's Cleveland in April.
Before Gadde's case, the body of Paruchuri Abhijit was found in a car in a campus forest. It is believed that the perpetrator targeted him for his money and laptop.
Two Indian students in their early 20s, Gattu Dinesh and Nikesh, were also found dead at their home in Connecticut on January 14.