Trial set for husband of missing Virginia woman in 2025

Mamta Kafle Bhatt, a 28-year-old mother and pediatric nurse, went missing in late July in northern Virginia, prompting her community and family from Nepal to mobilize efforts to find her. They utilized social media, organized community events, and held rallies to raise awareness about her disappearance. Naresh Bhatt, her husband, was arrested three weeks later on charges of concealing a dead body, with prosecutors indicating that evidence found in their home suggested serious injuries that were not survivable. Despite Mamta's body still being missing, Naresh Bhatt waived his right to grand jury proceedings, which allows for a trial to be set for early 2025. This decision was viewed as a strategic move by his defense team, aiming to limit the prosecution's preparation time for their case. The prosecution expressed concerns about the complexity of gathering evidence and witness testimonies, some of which are located out of state and even out of the country. Community members have remained actively involved in the case, wearing pins with Mamta's image and continuously advocating for justice. The investigation has garnered significant attention, highlighting the rarity of homicide cases in the area. Local residents, including former colleagues of Mamta, have voiced their determination to seek accountability for her disappearance. As the case progresses, the community's commitment to finding justice for Mamta remains strong, with many believing that the legal proceedings will ultimately reveal the truth behind her disappearance and hold those responsible accountable.