Matribhumi Samachar English
This statement is issued in connection with the tragic demise of Ms. Nikitha Godishala, who was found deceased in Maryland, USA, on 31 December 2025. The family wishes to place verified facts on record and dispel misinformation currently in circulation.
U.S. authorities have informed the family that Mr. Arjun Sharma, identified as the prime suspect, filed a missing person report on 1 January 2026 and left the United States for India on 2 January 2026. Ms. Godishala was later found deceased at 10100 Twin Rivers Road, Columbia, Maryland, the residence of Mr. Sharma. Her vehicle was also recovered from the same location.
During the period she was reported missing, unauthorized transactions were detected in Ms. Godishala’s bank account. Additionally, Mr. Sharma reportedly contacted her friends and family multiple times seeking financial assistance, citing urgent personal and financial difficulties.
The family was officially informed by authorities on 4 January 2026 at approximately 6:00 a.m. IST that Ms. Godishala had sustained multiple stab wounds, and that her death is believed to have occurred around 7:00 p.m. on 31 December 2025. U.S. law enforcement agencies, including the Howard County Police Department, have clearly stated that the accused is currently at large. Any reports claiming an arrest are false.
As the family mourns an irreparable loss, they respectfully request privacy and restraint from the media and the public. The last rites will be conducted privately, with police protection sought to ensure dignity and order.
The family appeals to national and international media to exercise responsible journalism, refrain from publishing unverified information, and cooperate with the investigation so that justice may be served with due process and dignity.
The family is working closely with the Indian Embassy in the United States, the Ministry of External Affairs, and senior government authorities in India including the Hon’ble External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Shri Ramchander Rao, the BJP State President, and the Chief Minister’s Office in Hyderabad. We acknowledge and appreciate the support extended by Team Aid, ATA, OFBJP, NRI community members, volunteers, and individuals assisting with coordination and repatriation efforts. Ms. Sree Divya Vadlapudi and Dr. Govindarajulu, along with Mr. Katikala Rajesh and others, have extended full support and are coordinating with the relevant authorities and stakeholders.
To ensure accuracy and transparency, verified updates will be shared only through authorized press statements and the family’s official social media channel.
https://www.instagram.com/justicefornikithagodishala?igsh=MWM3ZzY1YnQzZWN4
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