Father of Missing Indian Student Calls for Expanded Investigation…

The father of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student, is demanding a broader investigation into her disappearance, which might involve kidnapping or abduction. Search operations in the Dominican Republic, including aerial and aquatic efforts, are ongoing, alongside a formal complaint by her family questioning the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and the unusual absence of her personal belongings.

The father of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student who has been missing in the Dominican Republic since March 6, is calling for an expanded investigation into her disappearance. As search efforts continue into their fourth day, Subbarayudu Konanki expressed concerns, stating, “If she was in water, she would likely have been strewn to shore. She’s not found, so we’re asking them to investigate multiple options, like kidnapping or abduction.”

Last seen near a beach adjacent to her resort early in the morning of March 6, Sudiksha’s case is currently under investigation by authorities. They have mobilized drones, helicopters, and detection dogs to search the waters where it is believed she was swept away by waves. Her family has formally requested that investigators consider alternatives to accidental drowning, particularly given that her personal belongings, including her phone and wallet, remained with her friends—an atypical behavior for Sudiksha.

In a formal complaint, Subbarayudu Konanki urged authorities to consider foul play, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Authorities have acknowledged the complexity of underwater searches, noting it can take over a week for a body to surface in warm waters, yet the investigation remains active. Civil Defense spokesperson Jensen Sánchez remarked that, “The search is underway at sea because it’s presumed she drowned,” although the situation is under police scrutiny.

Sudiksha Konanki, who is an Indian citizen and a resident of the United States, is being searched for with cooperation from the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, federal officials, and university police, in conjunction with Dominican authorities. The University of Pittsburgh expressed deep concern for her well-being, stating they are collaborating with all parties involved to ensure that every possible effort is made to locate her and bring her home safely. Sudiksha traveled to the Dominican Republic with five other university students on March 3 for a holiday, as her father stated, “She wanted to have a nice break with her friends in Punta Cana.”

Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance has sparked significant concern and efforts for her safe return. Her father’s plea for a more thorough investigation highlights the urgency of considering all potential scenarios, including kidnapping or foul play. Authorities continue to search the waters, but the presence of her personal items raises questions about accidental drowning. The involvement of various law enforcement agencies and the support from the University of Pittsburgh signal an ongoing commitment to resolving this distressing situation and locating Sudiksha Konanki.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com