The family of the late Buncrana woman Danielle Mc Laughlin have appointed a top legal advocate for the trial of her suspected murderer in India.
Indian man Vikat Bhagat is due to stand trial soon for the murder and rape of the young Donegal tourist in Goa in March 2017.
Danielle’s family today confirmed that Attorney Mr. Vikram Varma was added to the legal team as their representative in India when the case of the accused comes to trial.
The family, while still coming to terms with the tragedy, said they remain hopeful that the truth in relation to Danielle’s untimely death will be made known and that justice in her memory will be done.
A spokesperson for the family said: “It is expected that the trial of Vikat Bhagat, who remains the only person charged in connection with the case, will take place soon as it is being ‘fast – tracked’ by the Indian authorities.
“Danielle’s family wish to express their sincere gratitude to the Coroner’s office in Dublin and the Chief State Pathologist, Dr. Marie Cassidy for their help. Dr. Cassidy, with meticulous precision, has completed the second post – mortem report in relation to Danielle. Dr Cassidy’s report, among other things, confirms the cause of Danielle’s death in line with the first Indian post – mortem report.”
Danielle’s family have also now received the ‘Charge’ documentation in the case from the prosecution authorities in India.
“The family wish to extend their thanks also to the British Consulate in Mumbai for their invaluable assistance in organising the delivery of the Charge papers to their solicitor, Desmond J Doherty in Derry.
“Danielle’s family have dealt with a lot of documents and information in relation to Danielle’s case over the last number of weeks and months. They are still trying to cope with and come to terms with the tragedy that has occurred,” the statement said.
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