The recent wave of violence against Indian nationals in the US is not merely a series of unfortunate events; it is a sociological crisis.
Rising xenophobia, polarized immigration debates, and inconsistent law enforcement practices create an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. (Image: X)
In recent months, the Indian diaspora in the United States has been shaken by a troubling surge in violent incidents, many of them fatal. These cases ranging from the shooting of Chandrashekar Pole, a student working at a Dallas gas station, to the brutal beheading of motel manager Chandra Mouli Nagamallaiah have sparked widespread concern across both Indian and American communities. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, over 842 Indian students died abroad between 2018 and 2024, with the United States accounting for 141 of those deaths. While many were attributed to accidents or health issues, the recent escalation in violent deaths, particularly in 2025, demands a deeper understanding. These incidents are not isolated; they are symptomatic of broader structural vulnerabilities, racial tensions, and institutional gaps that shape the immigrant experience in America.
Indian nationals in the US often occupy labour-intensive roles in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and fuel services and industries that are frequently underregulated and prone to risk. These jobs, typically involving night shifts, solitary work environments, and minimal security, expose workers to unpredictable and sometimes dangerous interactions. Loïc Wacquant suggests that immigrant labour is often relegated to “zones of relegation” social and spatial margins where protections are weak and exposure to violence is high. The murder of Nagamallaiah, who was killed by a Cuban immigrant with a criminal record recently released from ICE custody, underscores how systemic failures in immigration enforcement can have fatal consequences. Similarly, the killing of Rakesh Patel, a motel owner shot while investigating a disturbance outside his business, illustrates how routine responsibilities can become life-threatening in volatile environments.
Beyond structural labour risks, racial and cultural tensions play a significant role in shaping the vulnerability of Indian immigrants. Although not all attacks are officially classified as hate crimes, the frequency and nature of these incidents suggest a racialized perception of South Asians in the American social landscape. According to Michael Omi and Howard Winant, race is not a fixed biological reality but a social construct shaped by political and economic forces. In the US, South Asians are often stereotyped either as “model minorities” or as “foreign others”—both of which can provoke resentment and hostility. The murder of Pradeepbhai Patel and his daughter Urmi by a disgruntled customer in Virginia exemplifies how racialized frustrations can erupt into violence. These stereotypes, while seemingly contradictory, contribute to a broader narrative of exclusion and othering, making Indian immigrants more susceptible to targeted aggression.
The emotional and psychological toll of immigration further compounds these risks. Many Indian students and workers abroad face cultural isolation, economic pressure, and limited access to mental health resources. Many individuals under pressure to achieve socially sanctioned goals such as academic success or financial stability may experience frustration that leads either to deviant behaviour or increased vulnerability to victimization. The case of Chandrashekar Pole, who had recently completed his degree and was working part-time while seeking employment, reflects the precarious balance many young immigrants must maintain. The stress of navigating unfamiliar cultural norms, financial insecurity, and academic expectations can leave individuals emotionally depleted and physically exposed, especially in environments lacking institutional support.
The viral circulation of surveillance footage showing Patel’s murder shaped public perception of Indian vulnerability and triggered calls for increased security measures. These intimidating visual narratives do more than inform them to construct social realities. When violence against Indian nationals is repeatedly portrayed in the media, it reinforces a collective sense of fear and marginalization among the diaspora. This, in turn, influences how Indian immigrants interact with their surroundings, often leading to heightened caution, social withdrawal, or mistrust of local institutions.
Institutional responses to these incidents have been uneven. While Indian consulates have provided assistance with repatriation and legal support, there remains a lack of proactive safety measures and coordinated advocacy. Universities and employers, particularly those that rely heavily on immigrant labour or tuition, must take greater responsibility for the well-being of their Indian constituents. This includes implementing safety protocols, offering mental health services, and fostering inclusive environments.
The broader sociopolitical climate in the United States also contributes to this crisis. Rising xenophobia, polarized immigration debates, and inconsistent law enforcement practices create an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. The societal tensions between dominant and marginalized groups often manifest in violence. In this context, Indian immigrants, visible, economically active, and culturally distinct may become scapegoats for broader frustrations related to economic inequality, cultural change, or political discontent. The killing of Kapil, a 26-year-old man from Haryana who was shot after intervening in a public disturbance, exemplifies how everyday interactions can escalate in a climate of heightened social tension.
To sum up, the recent wave of violence against Indian nationals in the United States is not merely a series of unfortunate events; it is a sociological crisis that reflects the intersection of labour exploitation, racial tension, institutional failure, and emotional isolation. Addressing this issue requires a coordinated response that includes policy reform, institutional accountability, and community empowerment. Only then can the promise of opportunity abroad be reconciled with the imperative of safety and dignity for all.
Bijayani Mishra, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi and Executive Editor, Asian Ethnicity.
