'A life is a life': Priyanka Chopra on Indian student's tragic death in US

Priyanka Chopra has reacted to the unfortunate turn of events that led to the death of Indian-origin woman, Jaahnavi Kandula. The 23-year-old, who hailed from Andhra Pradesh, died on 23 January after being struck by a Seattle police patrol vehicle in the United States. As a result of the gruesome event, the actress shared a post by People Magazine about Jaahnavi on her Instagram stories. She captioned the post, “It’s appalling to learn that such a tragic incident that happened 9 months ago is only coming to light now. A life is a life. One cannot put any value on it.”

In the latest, months after the tragic event, a recording from the body-worn camera shows two union leaders from the Seattle Police Department joking about her death, according to an NBC News report. The video which is now gaining traction shows Officer Daniel Auderer saying ‘she is dead’ before bursting out into laughter.

As per reports, the officer left his body camera on after responding to the South Lake Union area. As fate would have it, a marked patrol vehicle driven by Kevin Dave struck and killed Jaahnavi Kandula.

Who was Jaahnavi Kandula?

As per media reports, Jaahnavi Kandula was a resident of Andhra Pradesh in India. The 23-year-old student was pursuing a Master’s degree from the Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union. She was set to graduate in December.

Farhan Akhtar condoled Jaahnavi’s death

Earlier, filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar also took to Instagram to extend his condolences. Calling Jaahnavi ‘a student preparing to make a place for herself in the world’, the 49-year-old described her potential as ‘limitless’ and her value as ‘immeasurable’. “Condolences to your family. RIP,” wrote the Bhaag Milkha Bhaag star, adding a picture of Jaahnavi.

Following Jaanhavi’s death, Northeastern University announced she would receive her degree posthumously. “The university plans to award Jaahnavi her degree posthumously and present it to her family,” the varsity stated on its Facebook page. The key announcement was made by Chancellor of the University, Kenneth W Henderson affirming that the ongoing investigation will bring a measure of justice and accountability.