An Indian student who had gone missing in Canada has been found dead under mysterious circumstances, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa confirmed. Local police have begun an investigation into the cause of death. Vanshika had been reported missing several days ago before her body was found.

Vanshika was the daughter of Devinder Singh, a leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and a close associate of MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa. Originally from Dera Bassi in Punjab, Vanshika had shifted to Ottawa two and a half years ago after completing her school education. She had enrolled in a diploma programme.

"We are deeply saddened to be informed of the death of Ms. Vanshika, student from India in Ottawa. The matter has been taken up with concerned authorities and the cause is under investigation as per local police. We are in close contact with the bereaved kin and local community associations to provide all possible assistance", the High Commission of India in Ottawa wrote.

The letter addressed to the Ottawa Police Service by the Hindu Community in Ottawa read, “Vanshika has been missing since the evening of Friday, April 25th, 2025, after leaving her residence at 7 Majestic Drive around 8-9 PM to view a rental room. Her phone was switched off at approximately 11:40 PM that night, and she missed an important exam the following day - an action completely out of character for her. Despite extensive efforts by her family and friends, there has been no contact or information about her whereabouts”.

The letter further read that, “We are deeply worried and, frankly, fearing the worst. The Hindu community in Ottawa is distressed, and the anxiety continues to grow with each passing hour. Given the troubling circumstances and the vulnerability of the missing person, we respectfully request your personal attention and intervention in this matter. We humbly urge the Ottawa Police Service to escalate this case, allocate appropriate resources, and prioritize the investigation into Vanshika's disappearance. A swift and thorough response could make a critical difference in ensuring her safe return”.

Reports indicate that Vanshika's body was found on a beach. Authorities are yet to confirm the cause of death, and an investigation is in progress. Her family suspects that foul play may have been involved.