NEW DELHI — An Indian court officially declared a 31-year-old man guilty of the rape and murder of an Irish woman who was killed while on vacation at a well-known tourist destination in 2017.
Judge Kshama Joshi announced the verdict against Vikat Bhagat at the District and Sessions Court located in the coastal state of Goa, and the sentencing is set to take place on Monday.
The body of 28-year-old Danielle McLaughlin was discovered on a beach frequented by tourists in March 2017 by a local farmer. An autopsy report revealed that her death was a result of neck constriction and damage to the brain.
Typically, rape victims in India are protected from being named publicly; however, the family of this victim chose to speak out to shed light on her case. This incident underscores the ongoing issue of violence against women in India, despite the implementation of stricter laws regarding sexual assault following a notorious gang-rape case in New Delhi in 2012.
McLaughlin’s family expressed gratitude towards the public prosecutor and the investigating officer for pursuing justice diligently. They shared their appreciation, stating that those involved treated Danielle “like their daughter” and committed themselves tirelessly to ensuring justice was served.
A message posted on the “Truth For Danielle McLaughlin” Facebook page echoed the family’s sentiments, declaring that “her truth has finally been heard.” The family lamented, “We have lost nearly 8 years of our lives fighting for Danielle, and we are so thankful that we can now begin to mourn her immeasurable loss. She meant so much more than just a daughter, sister, and friend. She illuminated every space she entered and impacted everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her life was filled with goodness, and it was tragically cut short by an act of cruelty.”
A statement from Ireland’s foreign ministry, delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris, honored McLaughlin’s family, particularly her mother, for showing remarkable determination and resilience amid an unbearable loss. Harris conveyed, “Although nothing can alleviate their grief, I hope this verdict brings some semblance of closure for the family. My thoughts will remain with them as they navigate through the sorrow of losing their cherished daughter and sister. May Danielle find eternal peace.”
Goa has established itself as a favored destination for backpackers in India, attracting millions of visitors to its beautiful beach resorts annually.
