Key Points
- Chaithanya Madhagani is being remembered as a vibrant and loving woman.
- Her Telugu community and parents in India are desperate for answers as to the circumstances surrounding her death.
- Victoria Police continue to investigate her death and placement in a wheelie bin.
Rajani* said Swetha, like many other women, simply wanted to lead a happy and fulfilling life. She arrived in Australia in 2009 to pursue her master's degree and worked as a quality editor.
Swetha was a loving and devoted mother, cherishing every moment with her four-year-old son. She was known for her vibrant personality and active participation in community events.Rajani*
"Swetha enjoyed parenting moments, taking her son to parks, kids' events, and cultural activities. Her friends admired her motivation and zest for life, and loved being her friend,” Rajani said.
Swetha wanted to have a "happy and fulfilling life", her friends say.
"Their grief is compounded by the fact that Swetha's body was discarded disrespectfully in a bin," Rajani said.
Meanwhile, her son was in the care of his grandparents in India, unaware of his mother’s death, she said.
Police are investigating and no arrests have yet been made.
"Due to the seriousness of the matter, there is much we unfortunately cannot comment on as we don’t want to jeopardise the ongoing investigation," Vicoria Police said in a statement.
We wish to speak to a 38-year-old Point Cook man, who is the husband of the woman, however, we understand this man remains offshore at this time.Victoria Police
Rajani said the entire community was mourning Swetha's tragic death, both in Australia and abroad, with the news shocking and saddening community members from India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond.
Nandini Biskunda, founder of the Women's Multicultural Empowerment Network, told SBS Telugu that it was very shocking to hear about the loss of Swetha and urged the community to come forward in support of those who may be experiencing domestic issues.
We are shocked and devastated to hear the news of Chaithanya Madhagani and request the Victorian Police to expedite the investigation for resolution.Chakri Chayanam, President of Telugu Association of Australia Inc. (TAAI)
In response to this devastating loss, a vigil service is planned to allow community members to come together and pay their respects.
In an with SBS Telugu, Praveen Thopucherla, Executive Chair of the Melbourne Telangana Forum, addressed rumours and speculation surrounding Swetha's case.
I understand that this is a painful situation. I am in touch with the family in India and have assured them that the community will support them in all aspects.Praveen Thopucherla, Executive Chair of the Melbourne Telangana Forum
"Let us honour Swetha's memory by coming together as a community to support one another and advocate for justice in her name," Rajani added.
*name changed for privacy reasons.
If you or someone you know wants to talk about family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14
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