The family of a woman murdered by her fugitive husband has criticized the police for failing to apprehend the perpetrator, demanding justice. Harshita Brella, 24, was strangled at her residence after reporting abuse by her husband, Pankaj Lamba. Lamba, 23, fled to India three days before Harshita’s body was found in a car trunk. One year later, Harshita’s mother, Sudesh Kumari, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in capturing her daughter’s killer, questioning the actions of both the UK and Indian governments.
Sudesh Kumari, speaking from Delhi to the BBC, emphasized her desire for justice to bring peace regarding her daughter’s tragic fate. Harshita was discovered deceased in a vehicle in Ilford, east London, on November 14, 2024, following her family’s report of her disappearance on November 10.
Authorities believe Harshita was murdered in Corby, Northamptonshire, on the same day she went missing. Pankaj Lamba, her husband, fled to India post the incident and remains at large. The couple, originally from Delhi, had relocated to Corby earlier that year. In March, Northamptonshire police formally charged Lamba with murder, alongside additional charges of rape, sexual assault, and coercive behavior.
Expressing disappointment in the pace of the investigation, Harshita’s sister, Sonia Dabas, criticized the UK police for what she perceived as a lack of seriousness in handling the case. She underscored concerns that the nationality of the family may have influenced the authorities’ actions, suggesting a broader message of safety for foreign nationals in the UK.
Approximately two months before her death, Harshita had filed a domestic abuse complaint against her husband. Despite his arrest and subsequent release on bail with restraining conditions, the case was not effectively pursued according to Sonia. This perceived inaction may have emboldened Lamba, leading to the tragic outcome. The conduct of four Northamptonshire Police officers in managing the domestic abuse report is under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Harshita’s demise in Corby and the subsequent transportation of her body to Ilford were highlighted by British police. Lamba’s movements, including his departure to India and financial activities, have been closely monitored. Investigations have progressed, with the UK Crown Prosecution Service opting to charge Lamba with the murder of his wife in March.
Detective Superintendent Johnny Campbell recently reflected on the first anniversary of Harshita Brella’s passing, acknowledging the ongoing support provided to her family by Northamptonshire Police. Personal belongings were returned to the family during a visit to India, underscoring the continued efforts to assist and console them during this challenging period.