Father of Missing Indian Student in Dominican Republic Calls for Broader Probe
Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, is missing in the Dominican Republic, prompting her father to request a wider investigation for potential kidnapping. Efforts to locate her, including the use of drones and helicopters, are ongoing, amidst concerns about unusual circumstances surrounding her disappearance. The University of Pittsburgh is actively involved in supporting the search.
Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old student at the University of Pittsburgh, has been missing for four days in the Dominican Republic. Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, is urging authorities to broaden their investigation into her disappearance, citing concerns about potential kidnapping or abduction. He expressed frustration that she has not been found yet, stating, “It’s four days, and if she was in water, she would likely have been strewn to shore.”
Last seen on March 6 near a beach adjacent to her resort, the search efforts have involved using drones, helicopters, and detection dogs off the east coast of the island, where she allegedly was swept away by waves. Sudiksha’s family flew to Punta Cana immediately after learning of her disappearance.
On Sunday, they formally requested that authorities investigate further possibilities beyond accidental drowning. The complaint notes peculiar circumstances, such as Sudiksha leaving her phone and wallet with friends, which is not typical behavior for her. In his appeal, her father stated, “I respectfully request that the authorities take immediate steps to investigate not only the possibility of an accidental drowning but also the possibility of a kidnapping or foul play.”
Authorities have indicated that recovery of a body could take over a week in warm waters, yet they emphasize that the case is under thorough investigation. Civil Defense spokesperson, Jensen Sánchez, confirmed that the search for her remains active, indicating that the narrative of her drowning is still being examined.
Sudiksha is a US permanent resident from Chantilly, Virginia, and she was on an intended holiday with friends when she went missing. The University of Pittsburgh has expressed concern, stating they are collaborating with local and federal authorities to locate her. According to her father, she simply aimed to enjoy a break in Punta Cana with her peers.
The case of Sudiksha Konanki highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive investigation into her disappearance, raising suspicions of potential foul play beyond accidental drowning. With searching efforts ongoing and a dedicated family seeking clarity, the collaboration between multiple authorities is crucial. The community’s support for the Konanki family reflects a collective hope for Sudiksha’s safe return.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
