Ottawa: Vanshika, an Indian student who had been missing in Canada for four days, has been found dead under mysterious circumstances, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa confirmed on Monday. Local police have launched an investigation to determine the cause of her death.
Vanshika, daughter of AAP leader Devinder Singh and a close aide to Kuljit Singh Randhawa, hailed from Dera Bassi in Punjab. She had moved to Ottawa two and a half years ago to pursue a diploma course after completing her schooling.
“We are deeply saddened to be informed of the death of Ms. Vanshika, student from India in Ottawa. The matter has been taken up with concerned authorities, and the cause is under investigation as per local police,” the High Commission said, adding that they are in close contact with the bereaved family and local community associations to provide all possible support.
According to reports, Vanshika went missing on April 25 after leaving her residence at 7 Majestic Drive to view a rental room. Her phone was switched off later that night, and she missed an important exam the next day — an action her family said was highly unusual for her.
The Hindu community in Ottawa had earlier written to the Ottawa Police Service, expressing deep concern and urging authorities to escalate the search efforts. “We are deeply worried and fearing the worst,” the community had said in their letter, requesting a swift and thorough investigation.
Vanshika’s body was later discovered on a beach, according to local media reports. Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of death, and investigations are ongoing.