Is BJP Government Acting Too Late in Ankita Bhandari Case?
Synopsis
The Congress party criticizes the BJP government's delayed response to the Ankita Bhandari murder investigation, suggesting it may be protecting influential individuals. Public outrage intensifies as a CBI probe is initiated, highlighting the ongoing demand for justice in Uttarakhand. Will the CBI deliver an unbiased investigation amidst political pressures?
Key Takeaways
Public Outrage: Growing protests highlight public demand for justice in Ankita's case.
CBI Inquiry: The transfer of the investigation to the CBI raises hopes for impartiality.
Political Allegations: The Congress accuses the BJP of delaying justice to protect influential figures.
Historical Context: The case reflects broader issues of gender-based violence in India.
Legal Proceedings: Accused have been denied bail, indicating the seriousness of the allegations.
Lucknow, Jan 10 (NationPress) Following the approval of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the notorious murder case of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Congress party expressed concerns on Saturday, stating that the BJP government is responding much too late and seems to be providing a 'scapegoat' route for Ankita’s murderers.
This reaction comes amidst escalating public outrage and extensive protests throughout Uttarakhand, sparked by recent events, including leaked audio recordings and claims about the involvement of a 'VIP' in the situation.
Ankita Bhandari, employed as a receptionist at a resort close to Rishikesh, vanished in September 2022. Her remains were later discovered, resulting in the apprehension of the resort owner Pulkit Arya, who is the son of a former BJP leader, alongside two associates.
Subsequent to the incident, the state government established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a female IPS officer, which conducted a prompt and thorough investigation. Throughout the inquiry, all accused were denied bail, and a chargesheet was submitted.
In May 2025, a lower court found all three accused guilty and sentenced them to life imprisonment.
Commenting on the transfer of the case to the CBI, Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput stated, “The BJP government is acting too late. This appears to be facilitating a scapegoat route for Ankita’s murderers. We have persistently called for a thorough investigation.”
He further alleged that the postponement was intended to shield powerful individuals.
“Whether it's to safeguard ‘Gattu’ or ‘Pattu’, the way the BJP has delayed action is sinful and merits a curse. The rapist and murderer of Ankita Bhandari deserves immediate execution. We trust the CBI will perform an impartial investigation free of political pressures. The CBI must also recognize the consequences of injustice. The Congress will remain vocal until justice is achieved in the hills of Uttarakhand,” he told IANS.
Rajput also commented on the recent prohibition of non-vegetarian food deliveries in Ayodhya.
He remarked, “If such regulations are being enacted, it should be clarified how long they are valid legally, religiously, and scripturally. Does Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's administration aim to prevent followers of Lord Shiva from consuming non-vegetarian food?”
He inquired whether devotees of Lord Shiva would be permitted to reside in Ayodhya and demanded responses from the BJP.
On Friday, the Ayodhya administration prohibited the delivery of non-vegetarian food items within a 15-km radius of the Ram temple. This decision followed numerous complaints regarding online food delivery services supplying non-vegetarian products in areas under the Panchkosi Parikrama.
Reports also indicated that certain hotels and homestays in Ayodhya were serving non-vegetarian food and alcoholic beverages to guests. Authorities have issued strict warnings to such establishments to cease these practices.
Point of View
This case highlights the complexities of justice and accountability in a politically charged environment. While the CBI's involvement is crucial, the allegations of protecting influential figures underscore a significant challenge in delivering justice. It is essential to ensure that the investigation remains impartial and transparent, reflecting the public's demand for fairness.
NationPress
4 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ankita Bhandari murder case?
The Ankita Bhandari murder case involves the disappearance and subsequent murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, whose body was found after she went missing in September 2022. The case has garnered significant media attention due to the involvement of a resort owner with political connections.
Who are the accused in this case?
The main accused in the case include Pulkit Arya, the owner of the resort where Ankita worked, and two of his associates. They were arrested shortly after Ankita's body was discovered.
What are the allegations against the BJP government?
The Congress party has alleged that the BJP government is acting too late in the investigation and appears to be protecting influential individuals involved in the case.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation has recently been transferred to the CBI following public outcry, with demands for a comprehensive and unbiased inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Ankita's murder.
What implications does this case have on public trust?
This case raises concerns about public trust in the justice system, especially regarding political influence and the accountability of powerful individuals in criminal cases.
