Has the Karnataka government requested MEA's assistance for a missing student in California?
Synopsis
The Karnataka government is taking urgent steps to locate a missing student in California. With the situation escalating, the Chief Secretary has reached out to the Ministry of External Affairs for immediate assistance. This distressing case highlights the challenges faced by families when a loved one goes missing abroad.
Key Takeaways
The Karnataka government has reached out for federal assistance.
A student has been missing since February 12, 2026.
The case is being actively investigated by local police.
The family is in distress and seeking support.
Coordination between state and national authorities is crucial in such cases.
Bengaluru, Feb 14 (NationPress) The government of Karnataka has reached out to the central authorities regarding the troubling situation of a student from the state who has reportedly gone missing in California, USA.
The Chief Secretary, Shalini Rajneesh, has communicated with Vikram Misri, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), to seek immediate support, as stated by the Chief Minister’s Office on Saturday.
In her correspondence, Shalini Rajneesh highlighted: “I am compelled to draw your urgent attention to the concerning case of a young Indian student, Mr. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who has been unaccounted for in Berkeley, California, since the morning of February 12, 2026.”
“Mr. Saketh is a student enrolled in a Master of Science program at the University of California, Berkeley. Information from his family and housemates indicates that his location remains unknown, even after a formal report was filed with the Berkeley Police Department (Case No. 26-6726),” she noted.
“Considering the seriousness of the matter and the increasing concern of his family here, I urge your prompt intervention. I request that the Ministry of External Affairs coordinate through the Consulate General of India in San Francisco to provide all necessary support, including collaboration with local law enforcement and assistance to the family,” she further stated.
Previously, the family of the student had approached the Karnataka government for help in finding him.
His father, Sreenivasiah, expressed that Saketh had gone missing from Berkeley, and his housemate had searched all possible locations before filing a police report.
“Saketh, who is pursuing his Master of Science degree at the University of California, has been missing since the morning of February 12, 2026. His housemate searched everywhere and, upon confirming he was untraceable, reported to the Berkeley Police Department. The investigation is ongoing, but his location is still unknown,” he stated.
He called upon Indian authorities for assistance in locating his son and providing necessary support to his family during this challenging period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions is the Karnataka government taking regarding the missing student?
The Karnataka government has contacted the Ministry of External Affairs for assistance in locating the missing student, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who has been unaccounted for since February 12, 2026.
Where was the student last seen?
Saketh Sreenivasaiah was last seen in Berkeley, California.
What is the educational background of the missing student?
Saketh is pursuing a Master of Science degree at the University of California, Berkeley.
What has the family done to find the missing student?
The family of Saketh has approached the Karnataka government for assistance and reported his disappearance to the local police.
What assistance is being sought from the Ministry of External Affairs?
The Karnataka government is requesting the Ministry of External Affairs to coordinate with local law enforcement and provide necessary support to the family.
