A Dream that almost costed life: Devarshi Deka got assaulted leaving him Paralyzed

Indian student Devarshi Deka’s dream of studying in Australia turned into a nightmare after an assault left him paralyzed for life. Devarshi, who came to Australia last year to pursue a Master of Professional Accounting at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) in Hobart, had given up a government job in India to chase his ambitions. However, his life took a tragic turn last November when an assault in Hobart left him severely injured. While celebrating with friends after securing a part-time job, Devarshi was assaulted and rushed to the hospital, where he was placed in a medically induced coma. After three and a half months, he awoke to find his life irrevocably changed. Devarshi now suffers from a severe brain injury, impaired vision in his left eye, and paralysis in his legs. He relies on nurses for basic movements and faces a grim and challenging future.

Despite his condition, Devarshi is grateful for the lifesaving treatment at the Royal Hobart Hospital and ongoing care at a local repatriation center. However, his status as an overseas student limits his access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme and other support services. His friend Rishabh Kaushik highlighted the financial challenges ahead, stating that specialized equipment and assistance for Devarshi’s continued stay in Hobart would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, a burden too heavy for his family and community. The uncertainty surrounding his future is compounded by the possibility of returning to India before his student visa expires in March next year. If necessary, his insurance will cover the flight to India, but doctors have indicated that Devarshi will be paraplegic for the rest of his life. His friends and family are now appealing for government support to help Devarshi transition into life with his severe disabilities.

[Image Source: GoFundMe]