Indian Software Engineer from Telangana Shot Dead by US Police
A 30-year-old software engineer from Telangana, Mohammed Nizamuddin, was shot and killed by police in Santa Clara, California. His family, who learned of the incident on Thursday, said it reportedly occurred on September 3 following a scuffle with his roommate, though details remain unclear. The family has requested assistance from India's External Affairs Minister to repatriate his body. The incident has added to growing concerns about the safety of Indians living and working in the United States.
Unpacked:
Police reported that Nizamuddin allegedly stabbed his roommate with a knife and was found pinning him down, prompting officers to shoot him. The situation followed escalating disputes, but the official investigation into the exact circumstances is ongoing and details remain unclear.
Nizamuddin posted on LinkedIn and told his family he had faced racial discrimination, harassment, wage fraud, and wrongful termination at work. He claimed his food was poisoned and described himself as a victim of racial hatred, calling for an end to what he called 'American mentality'.
His family has alleged racial discrimination, demanded a thorough investigation into his death, and requested assistance from India's Ministry of External Affairs to repatriate his body. They expressed shock and grief, with his mother reportedly devastated.
The case has intensified concerns about the safety and well-being of Indian professionals and students in the US, especially regarding racial discrimination and police encounters. Such incidents have prompted calls for better support and protection for the Indian diaspora.