Telangana Techie Shot Dead by US Police; Family Appeals to MEA for Repatriation of Body

Hyderabad/New Delhi, Sep 19 – An Indian tech professional from Telangana was fatally shot by police in Santa Clara, California, earlier this month after allegedly attacking his roommate with a knife, officials confirmed. His family, however, has alleged racial discrimination and demanded a full investigation into the incident. They have also urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate the return of his mortal remains to India.

According to police, the deceased, identified as Mohammed Nizamuddin from Mahabubnagar, was found inside his residence on September 3, holding a knife and pinning down his injured roommate. Responding to a 911 call about a stabbing, officers opened fire during the confrontation. Nizamuddin was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead, while the roommate is being treated for injuries.

Authorities said the case is being jointly investigated by the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office and the Santa Clara Police Department.

Nizamuddin’s family, however, disputes the official version, claiming that he had himself called the police for assistance before being shot. They described him as a quiet and religious person who had earlier voiced concerns about racial harassment, wage fraud, and wrongful termination. A LinkedIn post by him alleged he had been subjected to racial discrimination, harassment, wage exploitation, and continuous intimidation.

The family is pressing for a detailed inquiry into his allegations and the circumstances of his death. According to NDTV, Majlis Bachao Tehreek spokesperson Amjed Ullah Khan has written to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. and the Consulate General in San Francisco to investigate the case and assist in repatriating the body.