India denies need to issue 'demarche' to US over Kansas shooting

New Delhi: Asserting that the United States has pro actively responded to the tragic killing of Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla in Kansas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday denied the need to issue a `demarche` (diplomatic missive) by the Indian Government.

Responding to a query regarding reports that the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. had issued a demarche to the US State Department, MEA Official Spokesperson Gopal Baglay stated that the Governments of the United States and senior authorities in Kansas have pro-actively responded to Kuchibhotla death, which ruled out the need to issue a missive.

"In this context, I would like to draw your attention to the strong condemnation of the tragic shooting, issued by the US Embassy in New Delhi on 24th February. Further, the Charge d` Affaires of USA stated that the US welcomes people from across the world and the US authorities will investigate thoroughly and prosecute the case," he said in a statement.

Emphasising that this approach is reflected in the sentiments and assurances from senior most authorities of Kansas, who have reached out to the Indian Consul General in Houston, the MEA spokesperson added that these developments obviated the need for a demarche by the Government on this matter.

"It is important to note that the US authorities are engaged with us on the larger concern regarding safety of Indians in the US, a matter which continues to receive the Government`s top priority. We also must not forget the noble and courageous gesture of the young American Mr. Ian Grillot, who risked his life while countering the shooter," the statement further said.

Earlier today, after almost a whole week`s silence, the White House today spoke on the murder of the Indian engineer in Kansas, saying that "early reports out of Kansas are...disturbing."

Meanwhile, the last rites of Kuchibhotla, who was killed in a Kansas bar on Wednesday, were performed in Hyderabad today.

A large number of people from various walks of life visited Kuchibhotla`s residence in Praneet Nature Bounty colony in Mallampet to pay last respects to him before the last rites, said reports.

Srinivas`s wife Sunayana Dumala had accompanied the mortal remains of her husband from Kansas. The body arrived at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on Monday night and was taken in a convoy to his residence about 40 km from the Shamshabad airport.