Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand has reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. He emphasized that all decisions moving forward will consider the sentiments of the victim’s parents. Addressing concerns over an alleged audio clip, the Chief Minister dismissed efforts to create unnecessary tension, noting that the judicial process has already been completed with severe punishment for the perpetrators.
Dhami responded to calls for a CBI inquiry, acknowledging the state’s mourning for Ankita’s tragic death, particularly emphasizing the deep grief of her parents. He assured that any future decisions will be made after fully understanding their emotions, pain, and expectations. The Chief Minister assured that his government will prioritize the safety, dignity, and justice of women in Uttarakhand, emphasizing the need for absolute protection for the state’s daughters and a commitment to preventing such crimes in the future.
During a press conference at the state Secretariat’s Media Centre, CM Dhami emphasized that seeking justice for Ankita, described as “a daughter of Uttarakhand,” remains a top government priority. He highlighted the seriousness, sensitivity, and transparency with which the case was handled, noting the fair and thorough investigation conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by senior female officer Renuka Devi. The SIT’s exhaustive examination of the 2022 case, where the 19-year-old resort receptionist was allegedly murdered, resulted in the conviction and life imprisonment of all three accused by the trial court.
Dhami pointed out that the investigation’s quality was praised not only by the lower court but also by the Uttarakhand High Court and the Supreme Court, indicating its impartiality and thoroughness. The Ankita Bhandari case, which sparked widespread outrage in 2022, led to protests and demands for justice. The recent conviction of the accused was seen as a significant victory for the prosecution, with Dhami’s latest statement aiming to address lingering concerns while prioritizing the wishes of the victim’s family in future decisions.
