Wed Jan 07 05:42:42 UTC 2026: # Indian National Murdered in U.S.; Family Seeks International Arrest Warrant
The Story
The family of Nikitha Godishala, a 27-year-old Indian national, is demanding an international arrest warrant for Arjun Sharma, her ex-roommate and the primary suspect in her murder. Godishala was found dead with stab wounds in his Columbia, Maryland apartment on January 2, 2026, after being reported missing. U.S. police have obtained a warrant for Sharma’s arrest on first and second-degree murder charges, alleging he fled to India.
The family is working with U.S. authorities to repatriate Godishala’s remains to Hyderabad. They have also contacted Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy, who has spoken with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to expedite the process. Godishala’s father stated that she knew Sharma was planning to leave for India after taking loans from several people and that he had lured her to his apartment under the guise of repaying a debt. The Indian Embassy in Washington DC is providing consular support to the family.
Key Points
- Nikitha Godishala, 27, an Indian national, was found murdered in Columbia, Maryland on January 2, 2026.
- The primary suspect is her ex-roommate, Arjun Sharma, 26, who allegedly fled to India.
- U.S. police have issued an arrest warrant for Sharma on first and second-degree murder charges.
- Godishala’s family is seeking an international arrest warrant.
- The Indian Embassy in Washington DC is providing consular support.
Key Takeaways
- The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by Indian nationals living and working abroad.
- The involvement of Indian government officials underscores the seriousness with which the case is being treated by India.
- The incident raises questions about the vetting processes for international students and workers coming to the U.S.
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