Actress Urmila Sanawar, whose recent allegations have reignited controversy in the Ankita Bhandari murder case, underwent extensive questioning by authorities in Dehradun on Wednesday. Arriving in the city the previous night, she provided several audio recordings from her phone, which were confiscated for forensic analysis. Sanawar, reportedly linked to former MLA Suresh Rathore, is scheduled to appear before the Special Investigation Team in Haridwar on Thursday amid multiple cases filed against her.

The allegations stem from videos and audio clips Sanawar released on social media, claiming involvement of a prominent VIP in the 2022 murder. She specifically named BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam, prompting FIRs against her and Rathore in Dehradun and Haridwar. Gautam, in response, lodged a complaint accusing them of conspiring with opposition elements to tarnish his reputation.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met with Ankita's parents, Virendra Singh Bhandari and Soni Devi, assuring them of the government's commitment to justice. Dhami indicated that a decision on transferring the investigation to the CBI would follow consultations with the family and a review of legal aspects. The murder of 19-year-old receptionist Ankita at Vanantra Resort in Pauri led to life sentences for resort owner Pulkit Arya and two employees.

Also Read: Delhi HC Orders Removal of Posts Linking BJP Leader Dushyant Gautam to Ankita Bhandari Murder

Demands for a CBI probe have intensified since Sanawar's claims, with Uttarakhand Congress president Ganesh Godiyal criticizing the delay. He noted the family's repeated appeals over three and a half years, including court petitions, and called for an inquiry supervised by a high court or Supreme Court judge to ensure impartiality. Godiyal also questioned the rapid demolition of the resort shortly after Ankita's body was recovered, suggesting potential evidence tampering.

In a new development, an additional audio clip emerged where Sanawar allegedly admits to being pressured into naming Gautam. BJP state president Mahendra Bhatt described this as evidence of a plot to defame party leaders, predicting further revelations about those involved.

Also Read: Mass Protests in Uttarakhand Demand Arrest of VIP Linked to Ankita Bhandari Murder