The tragic case of Harshita Brella has garnered significant media attention following the discovery of her body in the boot of a vehicle in London. Her sister, Sonia Dabas, has made harrowing revelations about the circumstances leading up to her sister’s untimely death. Harshita was only 24 years old, a life abruptly ended under horrifying conditions that involved the person who was supposed to love and protect her—her husband, Pankaj Lamba.
On November 10, 2023, Harshita was believed to have been strangled in the town of Corby, located in Northamptonshire. After her death, her body was tragically found in the boot of a silver Vauxhall Corsa four days later, on November 14. Pankaj Lamba, 23, has been identified as the prime suspect in the ongoing murder investigation by the police. Sonia Dabas has publicly shared the challenging reality her sister faced during the months leading up to her death, including incidents of domestic abuse.
According to Sonia, Pankaj had previously been arrested for domestic violence in September 2023, which led to a domestic violence protection order being issued against him. However, he managed to manipulate Harshita into withdrawing her case. Sonia expressed deep concern over how Pankaj clawed his way back into Harshita’s life despite the orders meant to protect her from him. This manipulation highlights the complexities surrounding abusive relationships, where victims may feel trapped or coerced into compliance.
Harshita, originally from Delhi, had relocated to the UK after entering into an arranged marriage with Pankaj Lamba earlier that year. After the marriage, she secured a job in a local packing factory, a step towards her independence. However, it became evident that Pankaj’s abusive behavior escalated as he exerted control over many aspects of her life. Sonia described Pankaj’s behavior as particularly controlling and alarming, noting instances where he would beat Harshita and restrict her access to finances. “The controlling was really bad towards the end,” Sonia recounted, revealing the oppressive dynamics that engulfed Harshita.
Sonia noted that Harshita had, unfortunately, remained silent about much of the abuse until she finally confided in her sister during a crucial phone call on August 28. This conversation prompted Harshita to seek help from the authorities. The police report confirms that on September 3, Lamba was arrested but later released on bail due to the domestic violence protection order, which was evidently ineffective in safeguarding Harshita.
Tragically, despite her efforts to distance herself from Lamba, familial pressure began to mount when relatives in India intervened. They succeeded in putting Harshita under emotional distress, pressuring her to withdraw the case against Lamba. After being contacted while staying in a refuge, she succumbed to the pressure and made the troubling decision to re-establish contact with her husband. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the powerful influences family dynamics and cultural expectations can exert on victims of domestic abuse.
Following Harshita’s passing, law enforcement agencies are conducting a manhunt for Lamba, who is believed to have traveled back to India after the murder. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has also announced an investigation into the Northamptonshire Police regarding their handling of Harshita’s case, in hopes of ensuring such a tragedy doesn’t repeat itself. Sonia is determined to seek justice for her sister, expressing concerns that Lamba could easily evade law enforcement in India, given the country’s vastness.
The story of Harshita Brella is a heart-wrenching tale of love turned deadly, where domestic violence spiraled out of control. It raises critical questions about the protection available to victims and how deeply ingrained societal and familial pressures can affect their choices. Sonia’s commitment to seeking justice underscores the importance of addressing these issues, not only for Harshita but for countless others who may find themselves in similar predicaments.
