The Indian Embassy in Washington said it is in touch with the family of Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance and closely following the matter with local authorities, after the Indian national was found dead in Columbia, Maryland.
According to local police in Maryland, the 27-year-old woman, originally from India,
had been reported missing earlier this week. Her body was later recovered from an
apartment in Columbia, Maryland, where she had been residing, police said.
Investigators have identified her former boyfriend as the prime suspect in the case.
Police said the suspect allegedly reported her missing and left the United States
shortly thereafter. Authorities have issued arrest warrants on charges including first
and second degree murder, and are coordinating with federal agencies regarding
next steps.
The Indian Embassy said it is providing all required support to the bereaved family,
including assistance with documentation and coordination with local officials. The
Embassy is also monitoring developments in the investigation and remains in touch
with concerned agencies, an official statement said.
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Friends and community members described Godishala as a young professional who
had moved to the United States for higher studies and work opportunities. Members
of the Indian diaspora in the region expressed shock over the incident and called for
swift justice.
The case has drawn attention amid growing concerns over the safety of Indian
nationals abroad. The Embassy has advised Indian citizens in the United States to
remain vigilant and to reach out to consular officials in case of emergency.
Meanwhile, local authorities said the investigation is ongoing and further details will
be released as appropriate. They urged anyone with information related to the case
to contact law enforcement.
The family of Godishala has sought privacy as legal processes continue. Officials
said cooperation between Indian and United States authorities would continue to
ensure that the matter is pursued in accordance with law.
Police said consular coordination would remain essential as the case proceeds
across jurisdictions, and reiterated that updates would be shared following
established legal procedures and court processes in due course, subject to
investigation requirements and judicial timelines.
ADDON BY NEWS INDIA TIMES
Godishala’s Linkedin profile describes her as “Data and Strategy Analyst at Vheda Health | Masters in Health Information Technology | Doctorate of Pharmacy (Pharm.D)”
She says on her site that she has excellent communication skills, and describes her personality and goals as follows- “Driven by a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to optimize healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes, I am a results-oriented professional with expertise in Health Information Technology and Pharmacy. My diverse background in Clinical Research, Pharmacy, Healthcare Administration, and Data Management equips me with a unique skill set to drive impactful change in the healthcare industry.”
News reports identify her ex-boyfriend as Arjun Sharma, 26.
