Indian woman found dead in US; ex-boyfriend flees to India

NEW YORK: A 27-year-old Indian woman who went missing on New Year’s Day was found dead at her former boyfriend’s apartment in Maryland. The woman was found with stab injuries, and police have identified her as Nikitha Godishala, a data and strategy analyst based in Ellicott City. Police have registered a case against her former boyfriend, Arjun Sharma, in connection with the incident.

Arjun had reported Nikitha missing to the police on January 2, stating that he had last seen her at his apartment on December 31. However, when investigators searched his apartment on January 3, they found Nikitha’s body.

According to reports, Arjun left for India on the same day he filed the missing person complaint. Police suspect that the murder took place on the night of December 31.

Howard County Police said they are working closely with federal law enforcement agencies to trace and arrest Arjun Sharma. The Indian Embassy has confirmed that it is in touch with Nikitha Godishala’s family and is extending all possible assistance. The embassy also said it is coordinating with local authorities as part of the ongoing investigation.

The United States and India have an extradition treaty that allows for the transfer of suspects involved in serious criminal cases. However, such procedures typically take several months, as they involve court reviews and diplomatic coordination.