Father of Missing Student Calls for Broader Investigation into Disappearance
The father of Sudiksha Konanki, a missing University of Pittsburgh student in the Dominican Republic, is urging a broader investigation into her disappearance, suspecting possibilities of kidnapping or abduction. The search is ongoing with local authorities, and the family has raised concerns about Sudiksha’s abandoned belongings.
Subbarayudu Konanki, the father of 20-year-old Sudiksha Konanki, an Indian student at the University of Pittsburgh, has called for an expanded investigation into her disappearance while in the Dominican Republic. After four days of searching, he questions the narrative of accidental drowning. He stated, “It’s four days, and if she was in water, she would likely have been strewn to shore,” urging authorities to consider the possibility of kidnapping or abduction.
Sudiksha was last seen before dawn on March 6 near a beach close to her resort. Civil Defense officials are coordinating the search, deploying drones, helicopters, and detection dogs to examine the waters off the eastern coast. The family contends that Sudiksha’s belongings, including her phone and wallet, remained with her friends during her disappearance, which is atypical for her.
Prompted by these concerns, the Konanki family has officially requested authorities to explore alternative explanations beyond accidental drowning. Subbarayudu emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, citing various circumstances including Sudiksha’s belongings. He appealed directly to officials, expressing the urgency of considering all possibilities of foul play.
While authorities indicate that it may take over a week for a body to emerge in warmer waters, they stress that the case remains under investigation. Civil Defense spokesperson Jensen Sánchez remarked, “The search is underway at sea because it’s presumed she drowned… that is under police investigation.”
Sudiksha, a dual citizen of India and the United States, is being sought through collaboration between local, federal, and university authorities. The University of Pittsburgh has voiced its support for the Konanki family, stating, “We are deeply concerned and are working with all parties involved to ensure every effort is made to locate Sudiksha and bring her home safely.”
Sudiksha traveled to the Dominican Republic on March 3 with five fellow students for a holiday. Her father described her intent: “She wanted to have a nice break with her friends in Punta Cana.”
The ongoing search for Sudiksha Konanki raises significant concerns regarding the circumstances of her disappearance. Her family is pressing for a more extensive investigation, highlighting the unusual circumstances regarding her belongings. Authorities continue their efforts, asserting the case remains under investigation while the University of Pittsburgh expresses its support for the family. The community hopes for her safe return as search efforts continue.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
