Vanshika, a 21-year-old Indian international student who had been missing for four days in Canada, was found dead, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa confirmed on Tuesday. The cause of death remains undetermined, and local authorities are continuing their investigation.
Vanshika, the daughter of Devinder Singh, an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and close aide to MLA Kuljit Singh Randhwana, had moved to Canada two and a half years ago from Dera Bassi, Punjab, to pursue a diploma after completing her schooling in India.
The High Commission expressed their grief over the tragic incident, assuring that they have liaised with the relevant authorities and are supporting the bereaved family, they shared in a statement on X. They also confirmed they are in close contact with the family and local community associations to offer assistance.
According to a letter sent to the Ottawa Police Service by the Hindi Community in Ottawa, Vanshika was last seen on April 25 when she left home to inspect a rental room. Her family became alarmed after her phone was switched off later that evening and she missed an important exam the next day—behaviour that was completely uncharacteristic of her.
The community letter expressed growing concerns, saying, “We are deeply worried and, frankly, fearing the worst… Given the troubling circumstances and the vulnerability of the missing person, we respectfully request your personal attention and intervention in this matter.”
Media reports state that Vanshika’s body was discovered on a beach, but the cause of her death remains unclear. The family suspects foul play, and the investigation continues.
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