Saketh Sreenivasaiah Death in US: Indian Student’s Parents Seek Emergency Visa, Say ‘We Believe He Is Alive’
The family of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, an Indian student reported dead under mysterious circumstances in the United States, has made an emotional appeal to the Indian government, seeking an emergency visa to travel to the US. Refusing to accept official claims of his death, Saketh’s parents insist they believe their son is still alive and want to personally participate in the search and investigation.
Saketh, a postgraduate student pursuing higher education in the US, reportedly went missing several days ago under unclear circumstances. Local authorities later informed the family that he was presumed dead, based on preliminary findings. However, the family maintains that they have not been shown conclusive evidence, such as forensic confirmation or DNA identification, to accept the claim.
“We are not ready to believe he is dead. Until we see him or receive absolute proof, we believe our son is alive,” Saketh’s father said, breaking down while speaking to reporters in Hyderabad. The family has submitted urgent representations to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), requesting immediate consular assistance and expedited visa clearance.
According to relatives, communication from US authorities has been limited and inconsistent, adding to the family’s anguish. “We are getting fragmented information. First they said he was missing, then they said he may be dead. No parent can accept this without answers,” said Saketh’s mother. The family wants access to police records, CCTV footage, and details of the investigation.
The Indian Embassy in the US has acknowledged the case and said it is in touch with local law enforcement agencies. Officials stated that consular officers are extending all possible assistance, including coordinating with US authorities and facilitating the parents’ travel. However, the visa process, which involves US immigration authorities, remains critical and time-sensitive.
The case has sparked concern among Indian student communities across the US, with many demanding greater transparency and faster action. Student associations have urged authorities to treat the case with urgency, citing a rise in incidents involving Indian students abroad and the emotional toll such situations place on families back home.
Legal experts say that without definitive forensic evidence, families are entitled to seek further investigation. “Presumed death is not the same as confirmed death. The family has the right to demand clarity,” said a Hyderabad-based legal analyst.
Meanwhile, social media campaigns under hashtags calling for justice and transparency have gained traction, urging both governments to ensure no lapses occur in the investigation. Several political leaders in India have also called on the MEA to intervene at the highest level.
As Saketh’s parents wait anxiously for permission to travel, their message remains unwavering: “We will not stop searching. A parent’s hope does not die with an official statement.”
