Ankita Murder: CBI Enters After Parents' Emotional Plea
Uttarakhand CM approves CBI probe into Ankita Bhandari murder amid public protests and VIP allegations.
In a significant development, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has approved a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the high-profile murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, responding to the heartfelt request of her grieving parents. The announcement comes amid renewed public outrage and widespread protests across the state over leaked audio clips and alleged VIP involvement in the case.
Ankita Bhandari, a receptionist at a resort near Rishikesh, went missing in September 2022, and her body was later recovered. The resort owner, Pulkit Arya—the son of a former BJP leader—and two associates were arrested, tried, and convicted in May 2025, receiving life imprisonment sentences. The case was originally investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a woman IPS officer.
CM Dhami highlighted that the state government had acted with sensitivity, impartiality, and firmness from the outset, ensuring strong legal representation and a thorough judicial process. “The government’s objective has always been, and will continue to be, delivering justice in a fair, transparent, and sensitive manner,” he said, emphasizing that no evidence would be overlooked.
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The case recently regained national attention after audio clips circulated on social media, sparking separate FIRs and fresh scrutiny. Public pressure escalated with mass protests demanding a CBI investigation to probe deeper angles, particularly the alleged involvement of influential individuals. Ankita’s parents formally met the Chief Minister and requested a central inquiry to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
The decision to hand over the case to the CBI reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice. CM Dhami referred to Ankita as “our sister and daughter” and reiterated the state’s dedication to securing complete justice for her and addressing all concerns impartially.
The move is expected to give fresh momentum to the investigation, offering hope of closure to Ankita’s family and the citizens of Uttarakhand who have long sought deeper accountability in this tragic incident. The state government has pledged full cooperation with the CBI in the upcoming days to facilitate the inquiry.
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