FRISCO, Texas (Diya TV) — Authorities in Frisco, Texas, breathed a sigh of relief as 17-year-old Ishika Thakore, an Indian-American student who had been reported missing, was safely located. The Frisco Police Department had initiated a search effort after Thakore’s disappearance was reported on April 8, prompting concerns from her family and sparking a widespread community response.
Thakore’s last known whereabouts were traced to Frisco, Texas, on the night of April 8, as she was spotted leaving her home on Brownwood Drive around 11:30 PM. The police issued a Critical Missing Alert, seeking assistance from the public in locating her. Descriptions provided indicated that Thakore was approximately 5’4” and 175 lbs, wearing a black long-sleeve shirt paired with red/green pajama pants at the time of her disappearance.
After an intense search effort and a plea for public assistance, the Frisco Police Department confirmed on Wednesday that Thakore had been found safe. The announcement was met with gratitude from authorities, who thanked everyone involved for their assistance and support throughout the ordeal.
Thakore’s safe return comes amidst a series of unfortunate incidents involving Indian students in the United States. Just recently, Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Hyderabad studying at Cleveland State University, was tragically found deceased after being missing for nearly three weeks. Since the beginning of 2024, there have been at least 11 reported deaths involving Indian or Indian-origin students in the United States, sparking discussions about student safety and well-being in the country.
The increase in reported student deaths has raised concerns within the Indian diaspora community, prompting investigations into the underlying reasons behind these incidents. Organizations such as the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies have delved into the matter, examining various factors ranging from suspicious circumstances surrounding some deaths to accidents resulting from a lack of awareness about safety measures. Additionally, mental health issues leading to suicide and instances of violent crimes have also been identified as contributing factors.
Despite these challenges, the United States remains a popular destination for Indian students seeking higher education opportunities. However, the recent string of incidents underscores the importance of addressing safety concerns and ensuring the well-being of students pursuing their academic aspirations abroad.
