Indian man, stressed over unemployment and father's debt, dies by suicide in US

A 26-year-old Indian student, Iraganaboyina Chandu, has allegedly died by suicide in the United States, after struggling to secure employment following his post-graduation. The incident has sparked concern within the Indian student community abroad, while also prompting a wave of support for efforts to repatriate his mortal remains and assist his grieving family.

Chandu, a native of Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district, had recently completed his master's degree in Chicago, and had been actively searching for a job for several weeks.

According to family sources and members of the community, he was under considerable emotional stress due to prolonged unemployment.

He was reportedly distressed about his inability to find work and the financial strain it placed on his family back home, particularly his father, who works as a security guard.

FUNDRAISING TO AID CHANDU'S PARENTS

Following Chandu’s death, members of the Indian community in the US initiated a fundraising campaign with a target of USD 120,000.

The immediate goal was to raise USD 25,000 to cover the cost of transporting his mortal remains from the US to India. "The cost of international repatriation from the US to India—including funeral home services, legal permits, and transportation—is approximately USD 25,000. This is an expense his family simply cannot afford on their own," the fundraising page stated.

Any additional funds raised will be directed toward helping the family manage Chandu’s outstanding educational debt.

So far, the fundraiser has received a significant response, with over USD 76,500 collected within two days.

A short while ago, fundraising organisers shared an update, noting that all necessary procedures have been completed and that Chandu’s body is currently at a funeral home.

"Regarding the logistics: due to a shortage of available flights, the current plan is to have Chandu air-lifted home this coming Sunday. However we are working with all concerned parties to see if there is any way to expedite this process so he can be reunited with his parents sooner," they said.

GOVERNMENT STEPS IN

Meanwhile, efforts are underway at the governmental level to expedite the repatriation. A request for assistance was made to Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh via social media.

The request to look into the matter was raised on X by TDP IT cell member Sai Bollineni, tagging Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh.

In response, Lokesh stated, "Noted, Sai Bollineni garu. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. I request Ram Mohan Naidu to kindly ensure the smooth and hassle-free transport of the mortal remains".

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu also responded, saying, Spoke to Sai Bollineni garu and coordinating with the concerned people to expedite the process. We will do our best to support the family in these tough times".

The tragedy has highlighted the pressures faced by international students, particularly those navigating financial challenges and uncertain job prospects abroad.

As arrangements continue, authorities and community members are working to ensure Chandu’s remains are returned to India at the earliest, allowing his family to perform the final rites.

- Ends