Chandrashekar Pole, aged 27, was pursuing his Master’s in the US after completing BDS in Hyderabad. He had been working part-time at a gas station in Denton, Texas, when he was fatally shot by unknown assailants. Local police suspect the incident may have involved a robbery, according to a Hindustan Times report.
His family in Hyderabad is devastated. His mother, Sunitha, told ANI that they learned of the tragedy through friends. She asked both the central and state governments to help bring back his mortal remains as soon as possible. "My son went to the US two years ago. He became a dental doctor here and went there to complete his post-graduation, which he has finished. Two years have passed since he started his PG. We learned about his death from his friend's parents, who visited us and shared our grief. We've come to know that he was shot dead by black people last night. We request the central and state governments to ensure the safety of Indians and bring my son's body back home as soon as possible,” Sunitha was quoted telling ANI.
Telangana leaders, including MLA T Harish Rao, visited the family and expressed grief. Rao called for swift government action to repatriate Chandrashekar’s body. "It is tragic that Chandra Shekhar Pole, a Dalit student from Nagar who completed BDS and went to America (Dallas) for higher studies, died in a shooting carried out by miscreants early morning,” Rao also posted on X.
The Consulate General of India in Houston stated X, expressing its “deep condolences” and confirming that it is coordinating with the deceased’s family and local authorities.
Meanwhile, authorities in Texas have launched an investigation. The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s office is expected to perform an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.
This tragic incident highlights the risks faced by international students working part-time abroad. The case has drawn national attention and revived calls for stronger safety mechanisms for Indian students overseas.
