Ankita Bhandari case: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami rejects allegations, says justice delivered

New Delhi: Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that providing justice to Ankita Bhandari has been the top priority of the state government and in this direction the government has worked with utmost seriousness, sensitivity, and transparency.

Ankita, who worked in a resort in Pauri district, was allegedly murdered in September 2022. Opposition parties are targeting the state government over this case.

On Tuesday, CM Dhami was answering questions on the Ankita Bhandari case during a press conference held at the Media Center in the State Secretariat, Dehradun.


Chief Minister Dhami said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a woman officer, Mrs. Renuka Devi, was formed to conduct a fair and thorough investigation into this heinous crime. According to him, it thoroughly examined all aspects of the case. As a result of the government's strong and effective judicial advocacy, all three accused persons have been sentenced to life imprisonment.

He further added that not only the lower court but also the High Court and the Supreme Court have expressed satisfaction over the investigation of the SIT constituted by the State Government, which shows the impartiality and strength of the investigation.

Chief Minister Dhami said that currently an attempt is being made to create an unnecessary atmosphere in the state based on an alleged audio clip, whereas the reality is that the judicial process has reached its conclusion with full seriousness and the culprits have been given severe punishment.

Regarding the CBI investigation, the Chief Minister clarified that while the sentiments of the entire state are with Ankita, her parents are the most affected by this tragic incident. He said that he would personally speak with Ankita's parents and that any further decisions would be made only after taking their feelings, pain, and expectations into account.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government is fully committed to the safety, respect, and justice of daughters.