Sawant, an Indian-American politician known for her tenure on the Seattle City Council from 2014 to 2024, has faced two electronic visa rejections over the past year. For the past three weeks, she has been awaiting approval for an emergency visa to see her mother, whose health has significantly deteriorated.
In a statement, Sawant expressed her frustration, stating, "The Indian government is deliberately preventing me from seeing my mother during her final days. This is nothing short of harassment." She further emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting her mother's critical condition.
Sawant's supporters have rallied behind her, criticizing the Indian authorities for what they perceive as unjust treatment. Many have taken to social media to voice their support, using hashtags such as #LetKshamaSeeHerMother.
Legal experts suggest that Sawant may have grounds for legal recourse. Immigration attorney Rahul Kapoor noted, "If an individual faces undue delays or unjust denials in visa processing, especially in emergency situations, they can seek legal intervention to expedite the process."
The Indian government has not yet responded to these allegations. However, officials familiar with visa procedures have previously stated that applications are processed based on merit and in accordance with established protocols.
Sawant, who immigrated to the United States from India in the late 1990s, has been a prominent figure in Seattle politics. She was the first socialist to win a citywide election in Seattle since 1916 and has been known for her advocacy on various social issues.