Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami approves CBI investigation in Ankita Bhandari murder case, responding to the victim’s family plea.
DEHRADUN: In response to a long-standing request by the victim’s family, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Friday night that the State government has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation into the Ankita Bhandari murder case.
The decision came after Ankita Bhandari’s parents met with the Chief Minister recently and reaffirmed their desire for the probe to be turned over to a central body.
“We have approved the recommendation for a CBI investigation, respecting the request and deep sentiments of the late Ankita Bhandari’s parents,” Dhami said in a formal statement.
According to the Chief Minister, the State government is still dedicated to providing justice in a way that is “fair, transparent, and sensitive.” A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a female IPS officer was established as part of the prompt action following the occurrence, he recalled.
According to Dhami, “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.” The prisoners were eventually given life sentences by a lower court.
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Additionally, he verified that distinct FIRs had been filed in relation to certain audio clips that were making the rounds on social media and are presently being looked at.
The political opposition has responded differently to the judgment. Despite calling the action a “victory of public pressure,” the Congress deemed it to be insufficient.
Concerning the probe’s impartiality, Uttarakhand Congress president Ganesh Godiyal called the ruling a “partial victory.”
“The same party that controls the State and the Center also controls the CBI. Therefore, doubts about the agency’s legitimacy are normal,” Godiyal stated. A CBI investigation by itself, he continued, would not reassure the public due to the delicate nature of the case and the suspected involvement of powerful political figures.
“A sitting High Court or Supreme Court judge should have been keeping an eye on this case. Such oversight is the only way to guarantee that the whole truth is revealed,” he stated.
However, the State government insisted that the CBI investigation is the next step in resolving the family’s worries and that its handling of the matter, from the creation of the SIT to obtaining convictions, demonstrated its dedication to justice.