In a tragic incident, 30-year-old Mohammed Nizamuddin from Telangana was shot dead by police in Santa Clara, California, following a violent altercation with his roommate. The event unfolded on September 3, after Nizamuddin allegedly stabbed his roommate, purportedly over an argument regarding an air conditioner.
Police Response to Stabbing Incident
Officers from the Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD) were dispatched after a 911 call reported the stabbing. Upon arrival, they encountered Nizamuddin holding a knife, in a dangerous situation with his injured roommate.
According to police, they requested both men to show their hands. The roommate complied, but Nizamuddin did not, leading officers to discharge their firearms at him.
Statements from Family and Witnesses
“When the police entered the room, they asked the occupants to show their hands. One boy complied; the other did not,” said a family member of Nizamuddin. “It is extremely regrettable that no proper inquiry took place and the shooting happened so quickly.”
Nizamuddin’s father, Mohammed Hasnuddin, reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for assistance in bringing his son’s body back to their hometown of Mahabubnagar.
He stated that his family learned about Nizamuddin’s death only on September 18 and expressed uncertainty regarding the circumstances surrounding the police shooting.
Allegations of Discrimination and Calls for Justice
While the Santa Clara Police Department continues to investigate, Nizamuddin’s family has voiced concerns about racial discrimination, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the event.
Nizamuddin had previously shared troubling experiences in a viral LinkedIn post where he discussed facing challenges like racial harassment and wage fraud in the United States, intensifying his family’s worries.
The Impact of Racial Issues on Immigrants
In his LinkedIn post, Nizamuddin disclosed, “I have been a victim of racial hatred, racial discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination.” His powerful words reflect broader issues that many immigrants face in the United States, which often include discriminatory practices.
He concluded with a call to action, emphasizing, “Oppression of corporate tyrants must end.”
This tragic incident is more than an isolated case; it points to ongoing challenges surrounding nationality, race, and the treatment of immigrants in foreign lands. As the family seeks justice and answers, this event may spark discussions about racial discrimination and law enforcement practices.
