Thu Feb 27 14:00:39 UTC 2025: ## Indian Family Races Against Time to Reach Daughter in US Coma After Visa Delay

**Mumbai, India –** The family of Nilam Shinde, a 35-year-old Indian postgraduate student in a coma after a car accident in California, has secured a US visa interview appointment after a frantic appeal for help. Ms. Shinde, a student at California State University, suffered serious injuries on February 14th. Her family’s visa application, submitted 48 hours after the accident, faced significant delays, with the next available interview initially scheduled for next year.

The family’s desperate plea, amplified by NCP MP Supriya Sule, highlighted the urgency of their situation. Ms. Shinde’s father, Tanaji Shinde, expressed immense emotional distress, his pleas echoing the family’s fervent hope for a swift visa approval to reach their daughter’s bedside. His son, Gaurav Kadam, explained his father’s emotional state, revealing the added stress of the situation.

After intervention from Indian officials and media attention, the family received a call from the US Consulate, securing a visa interview appointment for Wednesday morning in Mumbai. Gaurav Kadam expressed gratitude to the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, and Supriya Sule for their assistance in expediting the process.

California State University released a statement on February 16th confirming Ms. Shinde’s critical condition and uncertain prognosis in the ICU, urging the issuance of travel permits for her family. While sources indicate the US does grant emergency visas in such circumstances, these slots are limited and require specific documentation.

The family, currently residing in their village in Satara district, is traveling to Mumbai for the crucial visa interview, carrying with them the hopes of reuniting with their critically injured daughter. Their focus remains firmly on securing the visa and reaching Ms. Shinde in California as quickly as possible.

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