‘Attack should be taken seriously’: MEA after Indian student stabbed in Australia

Days after an Indian national was stabbed multiple times in Australia’s Sydney, the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday said.

that the Indian High commission in Canberra are in touch with the victim’s family and also asserted that the issue should be taken seriously by the local authorities.

“We have requested the Australian High Commission in Sydney to expedite travel documents of visas so family members could urgently go. I’m happy to hear that it’s done,” Bagchi said. According to reports, the 28-year-old Indian student, identified asShubham Garg, is currently in hospital undergoing treatment.

“We have knowledge of the incident. The victim is in hospital and undergoing treatment. Our High Commission in Canberra & Consulate in Sydney are in close touch with local authorities. MEA officials are in contact with the victim’s family, Bagchi said.

MEA spokesperson further said that some officials met the Indian students in the hospital and extended consular services. Bagchi also informed that a suspect had been taken into custody, adding thatAustralian authorities will give more details about the investigation.

“We have also come to know that a suspect has been taken into custody. Australian authorities will give you more details on the investigation. Our expectation is that it is seen seriously,” Bagchi said.

When asked to share details about the incident, Bagchi said thatMEA won’t go into the speculations of whether this was a racial attack or not. “We want the police authorities to investigate the matter and interrogate all the perpetrators, then only we’ll get to the root of that,” he added.

Shubham was attacked on October 6at the corner of Pacific Highway and Gatacre Avenue Lane Cove in Sydney. The reason behind the incident is still unclear. In the attack, victim suffered injuries to face, chest and abdomen.

After the attack, Shubham got help from a nearby house and was then admitted toSydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital. The accused,identified as Daniel Norwood, was nabbed by Sydney Police soon after the attack and charged with one count of attempted murder.Norwood will remain in custody till December 14.

According to reports, Shubham was attacked by an unknown man at night while he was walking on the Pacific Highway Lane Cove in Sydney. The accused allegedly threatened Shubham and asked for his phone and cash. After victim’s refusal, the accused stabbed him multiple times before fleeing the spot.