Father of Missing Indian Student Urges Expanded Search in Dominican Republic

Sudiksha Konanki, a University of Pittsburgh student, went missing near a Dominican beach while on holiday. Her father has called for an expanded investigation into her disappearance, suggesting possibilities of kidnapping or foul play. Authorities are conducting searches with drones and dogs while families and officials remain hopeful for her safe return.

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student, is missing after disappearing near a Dominican Republic beach. Her father, Subbarayudu Konanki, has urged local authorities to broaden their investigation as search efforts enter their fourth day. He expressed concern over the lack of evidence suggesting accidental drowning, stating that the possibility of kidnapping or abduction should also be thoroughly explored.

According to Civil Defense officials, Sudiksha was last seen around dawn on March 6, near the beach close to her resort. Search efforts have included drones, helicopters, and detection dogs focusing on waters off the island’s east coast, where officials report she may have been swept away by waves, a claim currently under police scrutiny. The Konanki family, accompanied by friends, arrived in Punta Cana upon learning of her situation.

On Sunday, they officially requested an expanded investigation beyond accidental drowning, particularly noting that Sudiksha left her phone and wallet with friends—a behavior unusual for her. Subbarayudu Konanki formally appealed for immediate action, urging the investigation to consider both accidental and foul play scenarios.

Authorities acknowledge that it may take over a week for a body to surface in warm waters. Jensen Sánchez of Civil Defense stated that the ongoing search is premised on the assumption that she may have drowned, based on information from a companion who reported that the waves swept her away. This account remains under police investigation.

Sudiksha, an Indian citizen and US permanent resident, is being searched for with the collaboration of local and federal authorities as well as the university police. The University of Pittsburgh has voiced its support for the Konanki family, emphasizing that they are working closely with all involved parties to ensure every effort is made to locate Sudiksha and safely return her home. As recounted by her father, she traveled to the Dominican Republic with five classmates on March 3 for a holiday, seeking a pleasant break in Punta Cana.

The disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki has prompted intense search efforts in the Dominican Republic as her family calls for a thorough investigation beyond the initial assumption of accidental drowning. With authorities deploying multiple search resources and the University of Pittsburgh providing support, the ongoing inquiry will aim to uncover the full circumstances surrounding her absence. Sudiksha’s case underscores the complexities of search and rescue operations in foreign settings, while highlighting the familial struggle of seeking justice and clarity.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com