The parents of Pankaj Lamba, the man suspected of murdering his wife and leaving her body in a car boot in London, have been arrested in India, according to reports. Darshan Singh and Sunil Devi are facing charges under India’s dowry death law, which criminalizes the mistreatment of women leading to their death within seven years of marriage.
Indian Authorities Charge Parents in Connection with Harshita Brella’s Death
Indian police confirmed that Singh and Devi were arrested following a complaint by Harshita Brella’s family. They have been charged with causing her death through cruelty, a crime punishable by a minimum of seven years in prison, with the potential for life imprisonment.
Brella, 24, was found dead in the boot of a car in Ilford, London, in November. UK authorities suspect her husband, Pankaj Lamba, murdered her before fleeing the country.
Northamptonshire Police Continue UK Investigation
Northamptonshire Police, which is leading the UK murder investigation, confirmed that Lamba was known to law enforcement prior to his wife’s death and had been subjected to a domestic violence protection order.
Detectives have submitted their findings to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and are awaiting a decision on formal charges against Lamba, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Arranged Marriage and Move to the UK
Brella and Lamba entered into an arranged marriage, with a legal wedding in August 2023 followed by a traditional Indian ceremony on March 22, 2024. Shortly after, the couple moved to the UK in April, settling in Corby, Northamptonshire.
Brella’s father, Satbir Singh, expressed hope that his daughter’s case was finally making progress after months of waiting for justice.
Dowry Death Law in India
Under Indian law, a dowry death occurs when a married woman dies from injuries or burns within seven years of marriage, and it is proven that she was subjected to harassment or cruelty related to dowry demands. Convictions under this law carry a minimum sentence of seven years, with the possibility of life imprisonment.
Ongoing Manhunt for Pankaj Lamba
With Lamba still on the run, both UK and Indian authorities continue to investigate the case, with efforts underway to locate and extradite the suspect if necessary. The UK police remain in contact with Indian officials as they work toward securing justice for Brella’s family.
