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- 1 Heartbroken Sister of Murdered Woman Pleads for Justice
Heartbroken Sister of Murdered Woman Pleads for Justice
In the wake of tragedy, the sister of Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old who was found murdered in the trunk of a car, has opened up about her devastating loss. Sonia Dabas spoke to Sky News alongside her mother, Sudesh, sharing their heart-wrenching memories of a sister and daughter taken too soon. Brella’s husband, Pankaj Lamba, is currently the subject of an international manhunt after police labeled him a suspect in her death.
A Lifelong Bond Shattered
Harshita Brella’s body was discovered in Ilford, East London, on November 14, after she was reported missing. A post-mortem examination conducted later revealed she died from strangulation. In her emotional interview, Dabas described her relationship with her sister as “very innocent” and “childlike,” emphasizing that they were inseparable throughout their lives.
“If it’s two steps or two hours away, we were always together,” Sonia recalled, adorned with memories of endless shopping trips and video calls. “We wore similar clothes, even after marriage. Even if she was shopping, we would always share our choices on video calls.”
With tears in her eyes, Dabas expressed the emotional void left by her sister’s absence: “It feels like something is missing from my body. It’s the murder of thousands of dreams.”
A Call for Justice and Closure
As the investigation unfolds, Northamptonshire Police have released details indicating that Lamba is believed to have fled the country after allegedly killing Brella in Northamptonshire. Chief Inspector Paul Cash stated that the investigation involves over 60 detectives working on various lines of inquiry. “We take this matter extremely seriously and are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice,” he assured.
Sudesh, Harshita’s mother, made a poignant plea to bring her daughter’s body back to their home in Delhi. "I want my daughter back as soon as possible, in whatever condition. I want to see her soon, and she should get justice," she said, underscoring the family’s need for closure.
Previous Protections and Investigations
A crucial element in this tragic story is that Brella was under the protection of a court order intended for victims of domestic abuse prior to her untimely death. This raises important questions about the effectiveness and enforcement of protective measures available to victims facing domestic violence.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been notified regarding previous interactions between law enforcement and Brella, indicating a need for comprehensive evaluation and potential reform within the system.
Community Impact and Awareness
The implications of Harshita Brella’s murder extend beyond her immediate family, resonating deeply within the community and raising awareness over domestic violence. Advocacy groups emphasize that every such death is a stark reminder of the persistent nature of domestic abuse.
"This tragedy underscores the urgent need for systemic changes in how domestic violence cases are managed," said an anonymous advocate for victims’ rights. "It is crucial that we work collectively to ensure protections match the realities survivors face."
Ongoing Investigation and Community Support
As the search continues for Pankaj Lamba, the family has requested updates from UK authorities about the investigation’s progress, expressing concerns over their ability to navigate their grief without knowing what truly transpired. Dabas stated, “I just want UK Police to please update us on what is happening.”
As supporters gather around the family during this harrowing time, officials and community leaders encourage ongoing discussions about domestic abuse and its far-reaching impacts.
What does this tragic case reveal about our society’s handling of domestic violence? Readers are invited to reflect on the importance of addressing such issues in their communities.
For more information about domestic violence resources and support, you can visit Women’s Aid or Refuge.
[Image: Ms Brella died from strangulation. Pic: Sonia Dabas]
[Image: Pankaj Lamba is wanted by police. Pic: Northamptonshire Police]
[Image: Ms Brella’s body was found in the boot of a car. Pic: Northamptonshire Police]
The community’s collective voice is a pivotal element in advocating for justice in cases of domestic violence, and stories like Harshita’s reinforce the necessity for societal change. Join the conversation by leaving your thoughts in the comments below.
Their actions have consequences. By highlighting Harshita’s case and their plea for justice, the family aims to raise awareness about the issues surrounding domestic violence and the importance of standing up for victims. This is a critical step in combating the stigma and ensuring that such tragic incidents are addressed seriously in society.
World-today-news.com: Good day and thank you for joining us today. We would like to address the tragic case of Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old woman who was found murdered in the trunk of a car, and her heartbroken sister Sonia Dabas and mother Sudesh opening up about their loss and pleading for justice. Firstly, can you tell us how you feel about the issue of domestic violence, particularly within South Asian communities?
Guest 1: The issue of domestic violence exists not only within South Asian communities, but it is a global concern that requires immediate attention and action. We must not shy away from discussing this topic and supporting victims who suffer in silence. It is essential that we create safe spaces for them to speak up and seek help. Society as a whole needs to understand that domestic violence is a crime, and perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions.
Guest 2: I completely agree. The fact that Harshita was under a court order for protection before her death shows that domestic violence is prevalent in South Asian communities too. However, there is a stigma around speaking out about such issues, which often leads to victims remaining silent. This needs to change. We need to support organizations that provide help to victims and advocate for stronger laws to protect them. People should not have to suffer in fear.
World-today-news.com: That’s a valid point. We see that Harshita’s sister and mother have made a plea for her body to be returned to Delhi. Why is this important to them, and how does it relate to the need for justice in this case?
Guest 1: Returning Harshita’s body to Delhi would provide some closure for the family, but more importantly, it symbolizes the need for justice. They want to ensure that her killer is brought to justice, and returning her body would be the first step towards that. It shows that their daughter’s life mattered, and her death will not go unnoticed. This is essential for any family seeking closure after such a tragic event.
Guest 2: Yes, returning the body to Delhi is essential for the family’s emotional healing. However, it is also about sending a strong message to perpetrators of domestic violence that