The father of Hyderabad-born Nikitha Godishala, who was found dead in the United States, has rejected claims that the main accused was his daughter&rsquo;s former boyfriend and has demanded strict punishment for whoever is responsible for her death.
Nikitha, 27, was found dead with stab wounds inside an apartment in Columbia, Maryland, days after she was reported missing. US authorities have identified Arjun Sharma, 26, as the prime suspect and have issued an arrest warrant against him on charges of first- and second-degree murder. Police allege that Sharma killed Nikitha and later fled to India.
Nikitha&rsquo;s father, Anand Godishala, clarified that Sharma was not her ex-boyfriend, contrary to initial reports. He stated that Sharma was only a former roommate who had lived in the same apartment along with two other individuals. Anand stressed that portraying the accused as her former partner was incorrect and misleading.
According to Anand, his daughter had recently discovered that Sharma had borrowed money from multiple people. Media reports suggest that he was planning to return to India around the same time. Anand said these developments had caused concern shortly before Nikitha&rsquo;s death.
The family has called for a thorough investigation and strict legal action against the accused. The case has drawn attention both in India and the United States, highlighting concerns over the safety of Indian nationals living abroad.
US law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation, while Indian authorities are expected to coordinate if extradition proceedings are initiated.

Hyderabad-born woman found dead in US; father seeks strict punishment

Nikitha Godishala Death: Father Rejects Claims

Hyderabad-born woman found dead in US; father seeks strict punishment

January 6, 2026 | 16:29 IST