No need for demarche over techie shooting in Kansas: India

India on Tuesday denied reports appearing in a section of the media that its embassy in Washington has issued a demarche to the US State Department over last week's shooting of an Indian techie at a bar in Kansas city.

"The government of the United States and senior authorities in Kansas have pro-actively responded to the unfortunate death of Srinivas Kuchibhotla," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay said in response to a query on media reports about the demarche being issued.

"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 February 24," he said.

He also referred to the statement by US Charge d'Affaires in India Mary Kay Carlson in which she said hat the US was a nation of immigrants and the authorities there would "investigate thoroughly and prosecute the case".

"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," Baglay said.

"These developments obviated the need for a demarche by the (Indian) government on this matter."

Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed and his colleague Alok Madasani was injured when US Navy veteran Adam W. Purinton fired at them at the Austin's Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas state, on February 22.

Purinton reportedly got into an argument with the two and hurled racial slurs. He yelled "get out of my country" before shooting them.

Ian Grillot, a 24-year-old American, who tried to save the Indians, was hit by a bullet that pierced his hand and then lodged in his chest. He has since been hospitalised and is in fair condition.

"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," Baglay said in his statement on Tuesday.

"We also must not forget the noble and courageous gesture of the young American, Ian Grillot, who risked his life while countering the shooter," he added.

--IANS

ab/vt