In a shocking incident in Ludhiana, 71-year-old US citizen Rupinder Kaur Pandher was allegedly murdered in July. She had recently returned to India from Seattle, USA, where she was engaged to a 75-year-old NRI resident of the UK. The case came to light when Ludhiana police registered an FIR following a missing person complaint and named several suspects, including her would-be husband, Charanjit Singh Grewal, who is currently absconding.
Who was the alleged groom?
Rupinder Pandher was lured to India by Charanjit Singh Grewal, a Ludhiana resident currently living in England. Police say he is the main suspect in her murder.
How did the disappearance come to light?
Rupinder’s sister, Kamal Kaur Khaira, became suspicious when she found her sister’s mobile phone switched off on July 24th. By July 28th, she had contacted the US Embassy in New Delhi, prompting local police to investigate the matter.
When did the family receive information about Rupinder’s death?
The Khaira family learned of Rupinder’s death only last week.
Who was arrested?
Police have arrested Sukhjeet Singh Sonu of Malhan Patti village in connection with the murder. According to police, Sonu has confessed to killing Rupinder in his home and then burning his body in the storeroom.
What was the motive behind the murder?
Police say Charanjit Grewal lured Sonu into the murder by promising him ₹50 lakh. The murder was committed for financial reasons, as Rupinder had transferred a large sum of money to Grewal before coming to India.
What is the status of the investigation?
Satyndr Singh, Deputy Inspector General of Ludhiana Police Range, stated that Charanjit Grewal is a wanted accused in the case and the police are searching for him. Based on Sonu’s statements, the police are searching for Rupinder’s skeleton and other evidence.
