DEHRADUN: In a significant development, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday evening announced that the State government has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Ankita Bhandari murder case, responding to a long-standing demand by the victim’s family.
The decision followed a recent meeting between the Chief Minister and Ankita Bhandari’s parents, who reiterated their request for the investigation to be handed over to a central agency.
“Respecting the request and deep sentiments of the parents of late Ankita Bhandari, we have approved the recommendation for a CBI investigation,” Dhami said in an official statement.
The Chief Minister said the State government remained committed to ensuring justice in a manner that is “fair, transparent and sensitive.” He recalled that swift action had been taken after the incident, including the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a woman IPS officer.
“All the accused were promptly arrested, and strong legal representation was ensured, as a result of which no bail was granted during the investigation or trial,” Dhami said, adding that a lower court later awarded life imprisonment to the convicts.
He also confirmed that separate FIRs had been registered in connection with certain audio clips circulating on social media, which are currently under investigation.
The decision has evoked mixed reactions from the political opposition. While the Congress termed the move a “victory of public pressure,” it said the step was inadequate.
Uttarakhand Congress president Ganesh Godiyal described the decision as a “partial victory,” raising concerns over the impartiality of the probe.
“The CBI is controlled by the same party that rules both the Centre and the State. Questions regarding the agency’s credibility are therefore natural,” Godiyal said. He added that given the sensitivity of the case and the alleged involvement of politically influential persons, a CBI probe alone would not allay public apprehensions.
“This case warranted monitoring by a sitting judge of the High Court or the Supreme Court. Only such supervision can ensure that the full truth comes out,” he said.
The State government, however, maintained that its handling of the case, from the formation of the SIT to securing convictions, reflected its commitment to justice, and that the CBI probe marks the next step in addressing the family’s concerns.
