The mother of Harshita Brella, whose body was found in the boot of a car in east London after she was allegedly murdered, has tearfully spoken out, urging authorities to bring her daughter’s killer to justice. Speaking from her home in Delhi, Sudesh Kumari said: “I just want justice for my daughter.”
Harshita Brella, 24, had moved to the UK in April 2023 after an arranged marriage to Pankaj Lamba, a student in London. Her family described her as a kind-hearted young woman, who had been excited about her future, particularly her dream of becoming a teacher.
However, her sister Sonia Dabas revealed that Harshita had not lived a happy life in the UK. “She struggled a lot because of her husband,” Dabas said. The family said that while Harshita had initially hoped for a better future, she faced increasing abuse and restrictions in her marriage. According to Dabas, Harshita had confided that she wasn’t allowed to post photos on social media, wear make-up, or even wear nice clothes.
Timeline of Events Leading to Tragedy
Harshita’s body was discovered on 13 November in Ilford, East London, after concerns were raised by her family about her welfare. Prior to this, the family had last spoken to Harshita on 10 November, when she mentioned she had made dinner and was waiting for her husband to return home. When her phone went off the next day, her family became concerned and eventually filed a missing persons report.
Northamptonshire Police believe that Pankaj Lamba, Harshita’s husband, murdered her, then transported her body to London before fleeing the country. The police have launched a murder investigation and have issued a photograph of Lamba, who they believe has since fled the UK.
A Troubled Marriage
Sonia Dabas described the tumultuous nature of her sister’s marriage. In August 2023, Harshita called her father to report that she had run away from Lamba after he had physically assaulted her. According to Dabas, Harshita told them that after a violent incident in the street, a local resident intervened, allowing her to escape. She had also sought protection under a domestic violence protection order issued in September, which lasted 28 days.
The family revealed that Harshita had tried to leave her husband before, and they had encouraged her to come back to India. “We would have just taken her away from that person,” Dabas said.
Family’s Call for Justice and Repatriation
Harshita’s father, Satbir Brella, expressed his heartbreak and desire for his daughter’s body to be brought back to India. “I want my son-in-law to be brought to justice and I want my daughter’s body brought home,” he said, adding that they hope Harshita’s soul can find peace once her remains are returned.
The case has prompted concern about domestic violence and the safety of women in abusive relationships. Northamptonshire Police confirmed that a mandatory referral had been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to previous contact with Harshita.
The tragic death of Harshita Brella has highlighted the dangers faced by women in abusive relationships and the potential failures in ensuring their safety. The family is now seeking justice, and their heartbreaking plea underscores the pain of losing a loved one in such a violent and preventable manner.