Indian student killed in Uzbekistan; family alleges torture, forced conversion attempt

The death of an Indian medical student from Kerala in Uzbekistan has sparked demands for a thorough investigation after her family alleged that she was tortured and pressured to convert to another religion before being killed.

According to reports, the victim's family alleged that she was allegedly murdered by a fellow student. They claim she had been facing sustained physical and mental abuse and had informed relatives about being pressured to convert to another religion in the months leading up to her death.

An officer of Haripad police station said that the case was registered on Wednesday on the complaint of the student's family.

Kayamkulam DySP Binukumar T told news agency PTI that the Kerala Police can legally register a case even though the alleged crime took place outside India.

"Even though the crime occurred in Uzbekistan, there are provisions to register a case here. If the police there prosecute the accused, we will close the case. If no legal action is taken there, we will pursue the case further," he said.

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The family has urged both the Indian and Uzbek governments to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. They have also sought the intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate a transparent probe and bring those responsible to justice.

The case has drawn attention because of the family's allegations of torture and attempted religious conversion, claims that are now central to the investigation. Police have said they are examining all aspects of the complaint and will proceed based on evidence received from the ongoing investigation abroad.

The incident has also renewed concerns over the safety of Indian students studying overseas. Thousands of Indian students pursue medical education in Central Asian countries including Uzbekistan, attracted by comparatively affordable tuition and internationally recognised medical programmes.

With the investigation spanning two countries, the victim's family has appealed for swift diplomatic coordination and a detailed forensic and criminal inquiry to establish the facts behind the killing.