Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami says the decision on a CBI probe in the Ankita Bhandari murder case will be taken after consulting her parents. He reiterates justice, transparency and strict action against the guilty.
Dehradun: Amid renewed demands for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the Ankita Bhandari murder case, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday said that any decision regarding further investigation will be taken only after consulting Ankita’s parents and respecting their sentiments.
Interacting with media persons at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister stated that while the entire State is emotionally connected with the case, Ankita’s parents have suffered the greatest loss. “I will personally interact with Ankita’s mother and father. Any decision on the matter will be taken after understanding their pain, emotions, and aspirations,” he said.
CM Dhami reiterated the government’s firm stand that no individual, regardless of influence or power, will be spared if found guilty. “Justice for Ankita Bhandari remains our top priority. The government has acted with complete transparency, sensitivity, and seriousness in this matter from the very beginning,” he asserted.
Highlighting the steps taken so far, the Chief Minister said that the accused were arrested immediately after their involvement in the crime came to light. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by senior IPS officer P. Renuka Devi, was constituted to ensure a thorough and impartial probe. “The SIT conducted an exhaustive investigation, and due to strong and effective advocacy in court, all three accused were awarded life imprisonment,” he said.
Dhami further pointed out that the lower court, the High Court, and even the Supreme Court expressed satisfaction with the SIT’s investigation, which clearly reflects the fairness and credibility of the probe.
Referring to recent attempts to revive controversy through an alleged audio tape, the Chief Minister said that such efforts are aimed at disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of the State. “The legal process in the Ankita Bhandari case has reached its logical conclusion, and the guilty have been awarded stringent punishment,” he said.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the State government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, dignity, and honour of daughters. “Our government will continue to take strict action against crimes and ensure that justice is delivered without compromise,” he concluded.
