Seattle, WA, USA: Authorities in Punjab have confirmed the demise of a 71-year-old American citizen of Indian origin who had arrived in India earlier this year to marry a 75-year-old non-resident Indian (NRI) based in the United Kingdom.
The woman, identified as Rupinder Kaur Pandher, had been living in Seattle, Washington, for many years. She landed in Ludhiana in July with the intention of marrying Charanjit Singh Grewal, a UK-based NRI. However, soon after her arrival, she went missing. Concern grew when her relatives in the US were unable to contact her by July 24. Her sister later filed a complaint, which led the US Embassy in New Delhi to alert local authorities. Police registered a formal case in August.
Investigators allege that Pandher lost her life under instructions from Grewal. According to police, Grewal collaborated with Sukhjeet Singh, commonly known as Sonu, who worked as a typist in the Ludhiana courts. Singh was taken into custody and has reportedly confessed during questioning.
Officials say Singh attacked Pandher with a baseball bat and then tried to dispose of evidence. Her remains were allegedly burned with coal inside a storeroom, dismembered, and stuffed into sacks that were later thrown into a drain. Police have since recovered parts of her skeletal remains.
Law enforcement further claims that Grewal promised Singh ₹50 lakh, along with the possibility of moving abroad, in exchange for carrying out the act. Investigators also revealed that Pandher had already transferred large sums of money to Grewal before she traveled to India.
Grewal, who has been named a prime suspect, is currently absconding. Police believe he has returned to the UK, and efforts are underway to track his whereabouts.
The case has gained widespread attention due to the victim’s US citizenship and the involvement of suspects residing overseas. Investigators note that international money transfers and Grewal’s foreign location may pose challenges for extradition and trial.
Family members in the United States had tried repeatedly to contact Pandher before her disappearance was confirmed. Her sister, Kamal Kaur Khairah, raised concerns when Pandher’s mobile phone went out of service, eventually triggering the police investigation and diplomatic involvement.
